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Food Research Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Zipongo

Clinical Research Scientist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

... food subsidy disease reversal programs to hundreds of employers and health plans, including 5 of the 7 largest health plans in the US. We are looking for an outstanding Clinical Research Scientist ...

Vantage Specialty Chemicals

Food Scientist

Carnegie, PA · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Food Scientist Position Summary Vantage Specialty Chemicals is seeking a motivated and detail ... The position requires collaboration with cross-functional teams, including R&D, Marketing, Quality ...

System One

Food Scientist - Dough Rheology

Paterson, NJ · On-site

$110K - $125K/yr

Direct Hire Compensation : $110,000-$125,000 Shift: 8:30am-5pm (some flexibility) Position Overview We are seeking an experienced R&D Food Scientist to support the development, optimization, and ...

Zipongo

Clinical Research Scientist

San Francisco, CA

... food subsidy disease reversal programs to hundreds of employers and health plans, including 5 of the 7 largest health plans in the US. We are looking for an outstanding Clinical Research Scientist ...

System One

Food Scientist - Dough Rheology

Paterson, NJ · On-site

$110K - $125K/yr

Direct Hire Compensation : $110,000-$125,000 Shift: 8:30am-5pm (some flexibility) Position Overview We are seeking an experienced R&D Food Scientist to support the development, optimization, and ...

Berner Food & Beverage, LLC

R&D Scientist

Dakota, IL · On-site

Berner Food & Beverage is currently seeking an R&D Scientist. Summary: The R&D Scientist will formulate milk/dairy-based beverage products and/or cheese products and assist in the management of the ...

ASR Group

NPD Research Scientist

Boca Raton, FL

OVERVIEW The NPD Research Scientist I will be a thought leader on new product innovation and how to ... Hands-on experience of analytical and physical testing methodologies within food industry ranging ...

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Food Research Scientist information

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$50.5K

$130.1K

$174K

How much do food research scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for food research scientist in the United States is $130,117.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Food Research Scientist, you need a strong background in food science, chemistry, microbiology, and a relevant advanced degree such as a master's or PhD. Experience with laboratory equipment, statistical analysis software, and certifications like HACCP or SQF are commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, curiosity, and effective communication help scientists collaborate across departments and present findings clearly. These skills ensure high-quality research, innovation, and compliance with safety and regulatory standards in developing new food products or improving existing ones.

What does a food research scientist do?

A Food Research Scientist studies the chemical, biological, and physical properties of food to improve its safety, quality, and nutritional value. They develop new food products, enhance preservation techniques, and ensure regulatory compliance. Their work may involve researching ingredients, analyzing food samples, and conducting experiments to improve taste, texture, and shelf life.

What are some typical daily responsibilities for a food research scientist?

As a Food Research Scientist, your daily tasks often include designing and conducting experiments to improve food quality, safety, or shelf life, analyzing data, and documenting results. You may also collaborate with cross-functional teams such as product development, quality assurance, and marketing to guide projects from concept through commercialization. Routine responsibilities can involve preparing technical reports, presenting research findings, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. The work is a blend of hands-on laboratory activities and strategic planning, offering variety and continuous learning opportunities.

What is a food research scientist?

A food research scientist studies the properties, safety, and quality of food products to develop new items or improve existing ones. They often work in laboratories, using scientific methods, and may require knowledge of food chemistry, microbiology, and food safety regulations.

Is there a demand for food research scientists?

Food research scientists are in demand due to the growing focus on food safety, nutrition, and product innovation. Employment opportunities are available in academia, government agencies, and the food industry, often requiring skills in laboratory analysis, data interpretation, and knowledge of food science and technology.
More about Food Research Scientist jobs
What cities are hiring for Food Research Scientist jobs? Cities with the most Food Research Scientist job openings:
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Food Research Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Research Scientist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,117 per year, or $62.6 per hour.

Research Scientist - Analytical Development

Elanco Animal Health Incorporated

Fort Dodge, IA • On-site

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Elanco rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

51st of 86 rated pharmaceutical

Job description

At Elanco (NYSE: ELAN) - it all starts with animals!
As a global leader in animal health, we are dedicated to innovation and delivering products and services to prevent and treat disease in farm animals and pets. At Elanco, we are driven by our vision of Food and Companionship Enriching Life and our purpose - all to Go Beyond for Animals, Customers, Society and Our People.
At Elanco, we pride ourselves on fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. We believe that diversity is the driving force behind innovation, creativity, and overall business success. Here, you'll be part of a company that values and champions new ways of thinking, work with dynamic individuals, and acquire new skills and experiences that will propel your career to new heights.
Making animals' lives better makes life better - join our team today!
Your Role:
Research Scientist
The Research Scientist (R1 level) in Vaccine Technical Development plays a critical role in effectively and efficiently leading and advancing research and development projects. This position leverages deep technical expertise to ensure projects progress on schedule and within budget, while maintaining high standards of quality, innovation, and collaboration.
This role operates within the Process Development/Assay Development (PD/AD) functional group and operates cross-functionally across the Elanco network. The Research Scientist leads multiple large-scale projects, contributes to strategic planning, and drives continuous improvement in technical methodologies. This role also supports the full innovation cycle, contributing to the successful development, validation, and licensure of vaccine products.
Your Responsibilities:
  • Lead projects by developing technical plans, coordinating cross-functional alignment, and ensuring milestone achievement. Drive innovation by generating new ideas, accelerating timelines, and improving technical approaches.

  • Design and implement experiments, methods, protocols, and SOPs to support process and assay development improvements. Perform hands-on laboratory work, including development, optimization, and troubleshooting of new methods and techniques.

  • Represent Technical Development on project teams, defining goals, making decisions, and securing necessary resources. Build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders to meet project and customer requirements.

  • Analyze and interpret complex data, providing clear, actionable insights to project teams and leadership. Independently troubleshoot and resolve complex technical challenges within area of expertise.

  • Maintain accountability for project deliverables and team commitments, demonstrating Elanco's values and expected behaviors. Identify and leverage internal resources to execute projects effectively with minimal reliance on management oversight.

What You Need to Succeed (minimum qualifications):
  • Education & Experience: Ph.D. in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g., Virology, Immunology, Bacteriology, Molecular Biology) with at least 1 year of industry or post-doctoral experience; OR a Master of Science (M.S.) degree with 5+ years of experience in vaccine analytical development.

  • Technical & Leadership Skills: Proven hands-on expertise in analytical method development (e.g., potency assays, ELISA, viral titration) combined with demonstrated experience leading technical projects in a highly collaborative, cross-functional environment.

  • Communication & Influence: Strong verbal and written communication skills with a demonstrated ability to influence technical and business outcomes.

What will give you a competitive edge (preferred qualifications):
  • Direct experience with the USDA regulatory framework for animal biologics.

  • A strong background in developing and validating potency assays for licensed vaccines.

  • Proven success in mentoring and training junior scientific staff.

  • Experience managing the technical transfer of methods to QC or manufacturing teams.

  • Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects concurrently and adapt to shifting priorities.

Additional Information:
  • Travel: 0-15%

  • Location: Fort Dodge, Iowa - On-Site Work Environment

Don't meet every single requirement? Studies have shown underrecognized groups are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At Elanco we are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive work environment. If you think you might be a good fit for a role but don't necessarily meet every requirement, we encourage you to apply. You may be the right candidate for this role or other roles!
Elanco Benefits and Perks:
We offer a comprehensive benefits package focusing on financial, physical, and mental well-being while encouraging our employees to pursue our purpose! Some highlights include:
  • Multiple relocation packages

  • Two weeklong shutdowns (mid-summer and year-end) in the US (in addition to PTO)

  • 8-week parental leave

  • 9 Employee Resource Groups

  • Annual bonus offering

  • Flexible work arrangements

  • Up to 6% 401K matching

#LI-JC1
Elanco is an EEO/Affirmative Action Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status
Elanco may use automated tools, including AI, to support parts of our recruitment process, such as reviewing applications against job-related criteria and/or transferrable skills. These tools help ensure a consistent, structured evaluation, but they do not make hiring decisions. All decisions involve a human reviewer. For more information on how we handle personal data, please see our Elanco Workforce Privacy Notice.

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