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Food Research Development Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Alfa Laval

R&D Test Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

... food, water and shipping. As we push forward, the innovative, open spirit that fuels our 140-year ... Richmond R&D Laboratory, supporting experimental development and validation of Brazed and Fusion ...

Catalent, Inc.

Sr. R&D Scientist

Manassas, VA · On-site

$91K - $125K/yr

It is designed for dietary supplement and food-safety cGMP operations, making it distinct from ... Position Summary We have an opportunity for a Senior R&D Scientist to join our team and provide ...

Virginia Tech

Full Time Food Service Worker

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

$33K - $38K/yr

Full Time Food Service Worker Apply now Back to search results Job no: 536416 Work type: Staff ... research annually. Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development ...

Monogram Foods

Food Scientist (34654)

Martinsville, VA · On-site

The Research and Development Food Scientist is expected to serve as a technical services consultant, developing and supporting the commercialization of new products from the conception stage through ...

Church World Service

Development Manager

Harrisonburg, VA · On-site

$60K - $76K/yr

... food, a voice and a safe place to call home. Purpose The Development Manager is an experienced ... Research and recommend to the office director major donor solicitation opportunities. Donor ...

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All JobsFood Research Development JobsFood Research Development Jobs in Virginia

Food Research Development information

See Virginia salary details

$48.1K

$100.9K

$163.6K

How much do food research development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for food research development in Virginia is $100,921.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,800.00 and $115,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a food research development?

A Food Research Development job focuses on creating, improving, and testing food products to enhance quality, taste, safety, and shelf life. Professionals in this field work with ingredients, formulations, and processing techniques to develop new recipes or refine existing ones. They collaborate with food scientists, nutritionists, and production teams to ensure products meet consumer expectations and regulatory standards. Additionally, they may research market trends and evaluate new technologies to drive innovation in the food industry.

What are the typical responsibilities of a food research development?

Professionals in Food Research Development are responsible for creating and testing new food products, improving existing formulas, and ensuring quality and safety standards are met throughout the development process. Daily tasks often include conducting laboratory experiments, analyzing sensory and nutritional data, documenting findings, and collaborating with cross-functional teams such as marketing, quality assurance, and production. You'll also participate in pilot plant trials and may engage directly with suppliers or regulatory agencies. This role is highly collaborative and requires both independent research and teamwork to bring innovative food products to market.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in food research development, and why are they important?

To thrive in Food Research Development, a strong background in food science, chemistry, or related fields—often supported by a relevant degree—is essential. Experience with laboratory research tools, food safety standards, analytical software, and potentially HACCP certification is highly valued. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective teamwork set exceptional candidates apart. These skills and qualifications are crucial for developing innovative, safe, and market-ready food products in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Food Research Development jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Food Research Development jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Food Research Development jobs in Virginia?

For Food Research Development jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Food Research Development jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Food Research Development jobs in Virginia are:

Food Research Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Research Development job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $100,921 per year, or $48.5 per hour.

R&D Test Engineer

Alfa Laval

Richmond, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Alfa Laval rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 491 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Every day, we get opportunities to make a positive impact - on our colleagues, partners, customers and society. Together, we're pioneering the solutions of the future and unlocking the full potential of precious resources. Trusted to act on initiative, we challenge conventional thinking to develop world-leading technologies that inspire progress in vital areas, including energy, food, water and shipping.
As we push forward, the innovative, open spirit that fuels our 140-year-old start-up culture and rapid growth also drives our personal growth. So, as we shape a more resourceful, less wasteful world, we build our careers too.
About the job:
We are seeking a Test Engineer to join our U.S. Richmond R&D Laboratory, supporting experimental development and validation of Brazed and Fusion Bonded Heat Exchangers, with a focus on two phase applications. You will work hands on with test rigs, instrumentation, data acquisition, and structured laboratory procedures. This role is part of a collaborative team of Senior Test Engineers, Test Engineers, and Thermal Analysts, and interacts closely with Thermal Specialists, Technology Development, and Sales.
This position offers strong exposure to laboratory operations, engineering analysis, and cross functional teamwork within a regulated U.S. safety environment.
You will be part of a dedicated Global R&D laboratory team of eight people, composed of experienced Senior Test Engineers, Test Engineers, and a Thermal Data Analyst, working together with complementary and well-defined expertise.
Currently, this is an onsite opportunity located in Richmond, VA.
As a part of the team, you will:
  • Perform calibration, functional checks, and maintenance of sensors, instrumentation, and measurement probes.
  • Operate and monitor heat-exchanger test rigs, thermal loops, and two-phase systems; record and validate performance data.
  • Participate in daily and weekly team meetings to coordinate test activities and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Assist in developing and updating Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in accordance with U.S. safety and quality requirements.
  • Build strong working knowledge of laboratory processes, tools, and data-collection systems.
  • Support continuous improvement, waste reduction, and optimization of test execution sequences.
  • Troubleshoot test setups, instrumentation issues, and refrigeration-based systems.
  • Safely install, configure, and remove heat exchangers and associate piping/equipment.
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized laboratory environment.

"We care about diversity, inclusion and equity in our recruitment processes. We also believe behavioral traits can provide important insights into a candidate's fit to a role. To help us achieve this we apply Pymetrics assessments, and upon application you will be invited to play the assessment games."
What you know:
You have an Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field and:
  • 3+ years of experience in testing, laboratory work, or similar engineering roles.
  • Electrical Safety Certification or exposure to OSHA Electrical Safety Training (29 CFR 1910 Subpart S) NFPA 70E ,Lockout/Tagout (LOTO - OSHA 1910.147) and verification of absence of voltage
  • Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office and digital data-collection tools.
  • Understanding of SOPs, structured workflows, and team processes.
  • Knowledge of refrigeration systems, thermal loops, or two-phase technologies.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.
  • Experience in industrial laboratory environments. (preferred)
  • Familiarity with heat-transfer equipment or thermal performance testing. (preferred)
  • Hands-on experience with data acquisition systems or instrumentation calibration. (preferred).

Work Environment, Compliance, Physical Factors:
Alfa Laval is committed to maintaining a safe workplace. This role requires adherence to OSHA, NFPA 70E, and internal safety protocols. Final candidates will undergo a standard background check. This is an onsite 40 hrs / week role with occasional international travel.
Regularly required to stand ; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to stand and walk. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision. Noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
At Alfa Laval, we pride ourselves on creating an inclusive and dynamic workplace that values diverse perspectives and experiences. While we typically welcome applicants from all locations, currently, we are prioritizing candidates who reside in the US or have an established presence in the area.
What's in it for you?
We offer a challenging position in an open and friendly environment where we help each other to develop and create value. Your work will have a true impact on Alfa Laval's future success. Our benefits-eligible associates enjoy healthcare, dental and vision plans, a robust wellness program, generous 401(k), paid holidays, paid time off benefits, and more. At Alfa Laval, we carefully consider a wide range of factors to determine your total compensation package. We rely on market indicators and consider your specific job, background, skills, and experience to get it right. The base salary for this role is typically $80,000 - $90,000.
Alfa Laval is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse workforce. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, or business need, without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
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