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Food Research Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Food Process Engineer I

Emeryville, CA · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Research & development of food processes for novel food technologies * Plan and execute experiments ... S. in Engineering with specialization in food science, food process engineering, chemical ...

R&D Manager - Food CPG

Columbus, OH · On-site

$130K - $140K/yr

Support value engineering projects while maintaining product quality and brand integrity * Analyze ... years of food R&D experience within frozen food manufacturing * Strong background supporting ...

Research & development of food processes for novel food technologies * Plan and execute experiments ... S. in Engineering with specialization in food science, food process engineering, chemical ...

Research & development of food processes for novel food technologies * Plan and execute experiments ... S. in Engineering with specialization in food science, food process engineering, chemical ...

Description Key Responsibilities Product Development & R&D • Develop new food products and ... About Actalent Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent ...

Head of Engineering

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site +1

$130K - $200K/yr

... materials research is done in the future * work with top-tier human capital in research ... Free Food & Snacks * Wellness Resources * Stock Option Plan Compensation * $130,000 - $200,000 ...

Sr Research Scientist

Hershey, PA · On-site

$93K - $119K/yr

Hershey, PA Summary: Reporting to the Sr Manager R&D and residing at The Hershey Company ... Degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Food Chemistry, Food Engineering, Chemical Engineering ...

Re-engineer existing products * Ensure that product aesthetics and other physical attributes are ... Prior pet food R&D experience is highly desirable and preferred. 3. Knowledge and understanding of ...

New

Head of Engineering

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$130K - $200K/yr

... materials research is done in the future * work with top-tier human capital in research ... Free Food & Snacks * Wellness Resources * Stock Option Plan Compensation * $130,000 - $200,000 ...

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Food Research Engineering information

See salary details

$37K

$106K

$142.5K

How much do food research engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for food research engineering in the United States is $106,012.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,000.00 and $104,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Food Research Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Food Research Engineer, you need strong knowledge of food science, process engineering, and analytical methods, usually supported by a degree in food engineering or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation, statistical analysis software, and quality control systems is commonly required. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating on multidisciplinary teams and translating research into practical solutions. These abilities ensure the development of safe, innovative, and high-quality food products that meet industry standards and consumer demands.

What is Food Research Engineering?

Food Research Engineering is a multidisciplinary field that combines principles of engineering, biology, and chemistry to develop, optimize, and evaluate processes and equipment used in the production, processing, packaging, and storage of food. Professionals in this area work on improving food quality, safety, and efficiency by designing innovative solutions for manufacturing and preservation. They play a critical role in ensuring that food products are produced sustainably and meet regulatory standards.

What is the difference between Food Research Engineering vs Food Technologist?

AspectFood Research EngineeringFood Technologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Food Engineering, Food Science, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Food Science, Food Technology, or related fields
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, R&D centers, manufacturing plantsProduction facilities, quality control labs, R&D departments
Industry UsageDesigning processes, developing new food products, improving manufacturing methodsProduct development, quality assurance, food safety compliance

Food Research Engineering focuses on designing and optimizing food production processes and developing new food technologies, often involving engineering principles. Food Technologists primarily work on product development, quality control, and ensuring food safety. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, Food Research Engineers tend to focus more on process innovation, whereas Food Technologists concentrate on product quality and safety.

What are some common challenges faced by Food Research Engineers when developing new food processing technologies?

Food Research Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring food safety and quality while introducing innovative processing methods. Balancing cost-effectiveness with compliance to strict regulatory standards can be complex, especially when scaling up from laboratory to industrial production. Collaboration with cross-functional teams—including food scientists, quality assurance, and production staff—is crucial to address these challenges and ensure successful implementation of new technologies.
More about Food Research Engineering jobs
Infographic showing various Food Research Engineering job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, and 34% Part Time. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,012 per year, or $51 per hour.

$80K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

You will be part of our DF&H (Diversified Food & Health) division more specifically with our preservation team. This group has 70% of the canning industry through thermal processing.

As our Food Research Engineer, you will be ultimately responsible for providing technical and research assistance in thermal processing of hermetically sealed containers for the purpose of supporting sales, new and existing installations of JBT machinery, and generating revenue by providing thermal process consulting services.

On a given day, you may:

  • Operate and conduct tests on all laboratory equipment including Steritort, still and agitating batch retorts, and can closing machine.
  • Perform laboratory and field study projects. Conduct heat penetration and temperature distribution on all types of food containers (e.g. cans, jars pouch, tray, plastic tubs) and process delivery systems, with an emphasis on those provided by JBT Marel.
  • Design and develop safe and accurate thermal processes of foods in hermetically sealed containers for JBT Marel customers through heat penetration and spore count reduction studies. Evaluate process deviations.
  • Lead customer projects and provide documentation and assistance with FDA filing.
  • Provide accurate and timely technical reports and correspondence
  • Convey information regarding Filling & Preservation sterilization equipment and control systems to customers and other interested parties
  • Communicate well in oral and written form to internal and external customers
  • Conversant in FDA and USDA regulations concerning the thermal processing of foods in hermetically sealed containers

Requirements for the role

  • Background in food engineering or food processing required
  • Bachelors of Science degree or equivalent in Food Science, Microbiology, Food Engineering or Agricultural Engineering from an accredited college or university OR equivalent years of JBT/Food Science Experience
  • Proficient with a PC and MS Office software applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
  • Good oral and written communication skills
  • Experience with thermal processing preferred.
  • Ability to work and communicate effectively in a team environment.
  • Effective organization, problem solving and prioritization skills

Travel & Location

  • 25% domestic and International

COMPENSATION RANGE: $80,000.00-$95,000.00 Compensation is determined on experience and skill. This job description is a general description of essential job functions. It is not intended as an employment contract, nor is it intended to describe all responsibilities someone in this position may perform. All employees of JBT are expected to perform tasks as assigned by supervisory personnel, regardless of job title or routine job responsibilities.