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Food Research Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

product development assistant, Food R&D

Seattle, WA · On-site

$17 - $21.50/hr

Contribute to Starbucks success by helping product developers with tasks and assessments needed to create and optimize food items. You will support the Culinary and Food R&D team by: • Handling ...

Develop and optimize chemical, biological, or mechanical processes related to food engineering * Conduct research and experiments to improve food processing techniques and efficiency * Analyze data ...

This is a hands-on, research-forward opportunity to develop a deep, mechanistic understanding of ... MSc or PhD in Dairy Science, Food Science, Food Engineering, or a closely related field, with a ...

This is a hands-on, research-forward opportunity to develop a deep, mechanistic understanding of ... MSc or PhD in Dairy Science, Food Science, Food Engineering, or a closely related field, with a ...

This is a hands-on, research-forward opportunity to develop a deep, mechanistic understanding of ... MSc or PhD in Dairy Science, Food Science, Food Engineering, or a closely related field, with a ...

Food Scientist

Carnegie, PA · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

... R&D team. This role is ideal for an early-career food scientist or engineer looking to build hands-on experience in developing food ingredient formulation and scalable manufacturing processes. The ...

... R&D Food Scientist to support the development, optimization, and commercialization of bakery ... Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Baking Science, Food Technology, Food Engineering, or a related ...

... R&D Food Scientist to support the development, optimization, and commercialization of bakery ... Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Baking Science, Food Technology, Food Engineering, or a related ...

Research Engineer

Waynesboro, VA · On-site

$104K - $118K/yr

This role is ideal for someone with strong technical training in mechanical engineering, materials ... food and culture locations, it one place you can easily fall in love with. Reporting to the R&D ...

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 ...

We are a leading producer of food and industrial ingredients made from plant-based, renewable ... Provide process engineering support for manufacturing operations * Lead process improvements ...

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Showing results 1-20

Food Research Engineering information

See salary details

$37K

$106K

$142.5K

How much do food research engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 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 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 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.

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 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.

More about Food Research Engineering jobs
Infographic showing various Food Research Engineering job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,012 per year, or $51 per hour.

product development assistant, Food R&D

Starbucks

Seattle, WA • On-site

$17 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Starbucks rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 3,620 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 16 rated cafes


Job description

Now Brewing - product development assistant, Food R&D! #tobeapartner
From the beginning, Starbucks set out to be a different kind of company. One that not only celebrated coffee and the rich tradition, but that also brought a feeling of connection. We are known for developing extraordinary leaders who share this passion and are guided by their service to others.
This is an opportunity to support the team who imagines, develops, commercializes, and optimizes food at Starbucks. In R&D, we aspire to be the indisputable leader in breakthrough innovation. Our mission is to create food and beverage experiences that nurture love, connection, and inspiration for people every day. Come join our team and help create amazing foods that will surprise and delight our customers and make our baristas proud to serve them!
As a Product Development Assistant, you will...
Contribute to Starbucks success by helping product developers with tasks and assessments needed to create and optimize food items. You will support the Culinary and Food R&D team by:
• Handling incoming and outgoing shipments, opening boxes and organizing samples as they arrive
• Monitoring and keeping all the food R&D kitchen and labs organized and stocked as needed for project work.
• Conducting shelf-life studies from storing samples to setting up testing and reporting results to the product developers
• Gathering and reporting analytical data as needed for project work.
• Preparing for and supporting tastings, including product guidance and other sensory tests
• Assisting with presentations and product samplings for leadership as needed
We'd love to hear from people with:
• An associate degree or higher in Food Science, Culinary or other related fields
• Food and beverage preparation experience. Barista experience a plus
Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
• Knowledge of Microsoft office programs
• Basic knowledge of math and science
• Good organizational skills, ability to multi-task.
• Ability to follow direction, seek guidance as necessary and provide regular progress report.
• Ability to communicate clearly, verbally and in writing.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to deliver excellent customer service with attention to details
• Ability to build positive and effective working relationships with other team members
As a Starbucks partner, you (and your family) will have access to medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance, and other voluntary insurance benefits. Partners have access to short-term and long-term disability, paid parental leave, family expansion reimbursement, paid vacation from date of hire*, sick time (accrued at 1 hour for every 25 hours worked), eight paid holidays, and two personal days per year. Starbucks also offers eligible partners participation in a 401(k) retirement plan with employer match, a discounted company stock program (S.I.P.), Starbucks equity program (Bean Stock), incentivized emergency savings, and financial well-being tools. Additionally, Starbucks offers 100% upfront tuition coverage for a first-time bachelor's degree through Arizona State University's online program via the Starbucks College Achievement Plan, student loan management resources, and access to other educational opportunities. You will also have access to backup care and DACA reimbursement. Starbucks will comply with any applicable state and local laws regarding employee leave benefits, including, but not limited to providing time off pursuant to the Colorado Healthy Families and Workplaces Act, and in accordance with its plans and policies. This list is subject to change depending on collective bargaining in locations where partners have a certified bargaining representative. For additional information regarding partner perks and more detailed information about benefits, go to starbucksbenefits.com.
*If you are working in CA, CO, IL, LA, ME, MA, NE, ND or RI, you will accrue vacation up to a maximum of 120 hours (190 in CA) for roles below director and 200 hours (316 in CA) for roles at director or above. For roles in other states, you will be granted vacation time starting at 120 hours annually for roles below director and 200 hours annually for roles director and above.
This role is in-office 5 days a week.
The actual base pay offered to the successful candidate will be based on multiple factors, including but not limited to job-related knowledge/skills, experience, geographical location, and internal equity. At Starbucks, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at the high end of the range for their role, and compensation decisions are dependent upon the facts and circumstances of each position and candidate.
Join us and inspire with every cup. Apply today!
Starbucks Coffee Company is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Qualified applicants with criminal histories will be considered for employment in a manner consistent with all federal, state and local ordinances.
Starbucks Coffee Company is committed to offering reasonable accommodations to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at applicantaccommodation@starbucks.com or 1(888) 611-2258.

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About Starbucks

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Starbucks Corporation is an American multinational chain of coffeehouses and roastery reserves. It is one of the largest coffeehouse chains in the world. Starbucks was founded in Seattle, Washington in 1971 by Jerry Baldwin, Zev Siegl, and Gordon Bowker. The company's initial focus was on selling whole coffee beans and coffee-making equipment. Over the years, Starbucks has expanded its operations and become known for its distinctive coffeehouse atmosphere and high-quality coffee products. The company offers a wide range of beverages, including various coffee-based drinks, teas, hot chocolates, and other specialty drinks. Starbucks also serves a variety of food items such as pastries, sandwiches, salads, and snacks. One of the key factors that set Starbucks apart from other coffee chains is its commitment to providing a unique customer experience. Starbucks locations are designed to be comfortable and welcoming, often featuring cozy seating areas and free Wi-Fi access. The company aims to create a "third place" between home and work where customers can relax, socialize, or work while enjoying their favorite beverages. One of the key factors that set Starbucks apart from other coffee chains is its commitment to providing a unique customer experience. Starbucks locations are designed to be comfortable and welcoming, often featuring cozy seating areas and free Wi-Fi access. The company aims to create a "third place" between home and work where customers can relax, socialize, or work while enjoying their favorite beverages. One of the key factors that set Starbucks apart from other coffee chains is its commitment to providing a unique customer experience. Starbucks locations are designed to be comfortable and welcoming, often featuring cozy seating areas and free Wi-Fi access. The company aims to create a "third place" between home and work where customers can relax, socialize, or work while enjoying their favorite beverages. In addition to its traditional coffeehouses, Starbucks has expanded its brand to include different store formats. This includes drive-thru locations, express stores, and even upscale Reserve Roasteries and Reserve Bars that offer a more immersive coffee experience. Starbucks is also known for its ethical sourcing practices. The company has implemented programs such as Coffee and Farmer Equity (C.A.F.E.) Practices, which promote environmentally friendly and socially responsible coffee production. Starbucks has a commitment to ethically sourcing its coffee beans and has made efforts to support sustainable farming practices and improve the livelihoods of coffee farmers. The Starbucks brand has a global presence, with thousands of stores in countries around the world. It has become a symbol of premium coffee and a popular destination for coffee lovers worldwide. The company's success has made it an iconic brand and a significant player in the global coffee industry.

Industry

Food services and drinking places and restaurants

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Seattle, WA, US