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Food Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The R&D scientist will have the opportunity to use knowledge and experience to conduct research in pet wet food. As a part of the R&D team, the R&D scientist will develop strategies to improve ...

Lead product development projects with cross-functional partners Strong technical foundation and a high level of technical curiosity Demonstrates ability to handle multiple projects, and manage ...

R&D Chef

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$95K - $105K/yr

We are committed to prioritizing food safety, we are passionate about product quality, we value our ... As the R&D Chef at Farmer's Fridge, you will be the creative engine behind our ever-evolving menu.

R&D Chef

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$95K - $105K/yr

We are committed to prioritizing food safety, we are passionate about product quality, we value our ... As the R&D Chef at Farmer's Fridge, you will be the creative engine behind our ever-evolving menu.

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, Food Science, or a related field. * Experience: A minimum of 7 years in a formulation and/or R&D role within an FDA-regulated industry (nutraceutical ...

The Food Research and Development Manager provides technical leadership across the Private Brands portfolio, ensuring products are developed, commercialized, and maintained with scientific rigor.

Packaging R&D Co-op

Glenview, IL ยท On-site

$24K/mo

With iconic and emerging food and beverage brands around the world, we deliver the best taste, fun ... R&D - The Creators: Our R&D teams create high-quality products that push the boundaries of what ...

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, Food Science, or a related field. * Experience: A minimum of 7 years in a formulation and/or R&D role within an FDA-regulated industry (nutraceutical ...

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, Food Science, or a related field. * Experience: A minimum of 7 years in a formulation and/or R&D role within an FDA-regulated industry (nutraceutical ...

With iconic and emerging food and beverage brands around the world, we deliver the best taste, fun ... R&D - The Creators: Our R&D teams create high-quality products that push the boundaries of what ...

Pilot Plant Supervisor / Senior R&D Manager About the Role We're looking for a Food Scientist to support pilot plant operations and industrial implementation of new products. In this role, you'll ...

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Food Research information

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$8

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How much do food research jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for food research in the United States is $24.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $28.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Food Research vs Food Technologist?

AspectFood ResearchFood Technologist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Food Science, Chemistry, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Food Science, Food Technology, or related fields
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, R&D departmentsManufacturing plants, quality control labs, production lines
Industry UsageFocuses on developing new products, improving formulations, and conducting experimentsFocuses on applying research to production, quality assurance, and process optimization

Food Research and Food Technologists both work within the food industry and share similar educational backgrounds. However, Food Research primarily involves developing new products and conducting experiments in labs, while Food Technologists focus on applying research findings to manufacturing processes and ensuring product quality. Both roles are essential for innovation and quality in the food industry, but they differ in their core activities and work environments.

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

To thrive in Food Research, you need a strong background in food science, chemistry, biology, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, analytical testing methods, and food safety regulations, as well as certifications like HACCP, is typically required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication are vital soft skills for designing experiments and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These competencies ensure accurate research outcomes, innovation, and adherence to safety and quality standards in the food industry.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals in Food Research, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Food Research often encounter challenges such as staying abreast of evolving food safety regulations, balancing innovation with compliance, and addressing consumer demand for healthier or more sustainable products. These challenges can be managed by maintaining ongoing professional development, working closely with cross-functional teams like regulatory affairs and marketing, and adopting robust data collection and analysis practices. Collaborative problem-solving and regular communication with team members are also vital for efficiently navigating the fast-paced and ever-changing landscape of food science.

What is food research?

Food research is the scientific study of food, including its composition, safety, nutrition, processing, and development of new products. Professionals in this field work to improve food quality, safety, and sustainability by analyzing ingredients, developing innovative processing methods, and ensuring products meet regulatory standards. Food researchers may also explore ways to enhance flavor, texture, and shelf life, as well as address public health concerns related to diet and nutrition.
More about Food Research jobs
What cities are hiring for Food Research jobs? Cities with the most Food Research job openings:
What states have the most Food Research jobs? States with the most job openings for Food Research jobs include:
Infographic showing various Food Research job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, and 34% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,670 per year, or $24.4 per hour.
R & D Scientist

R & D Scientist

Saturn Petcare Inc

Terre Haute, IN โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description


SUMMARY:

The R&D scientist will have the opportunity to use knowledge and experience to conduct research in pet wet food. As a part of the R&D team, the R&D scientist will develop strategies to improve existing products and processing, participate in the formulation and development of new products, participate actively in projects to face supply chain issues, and participate in cross-functional projects with other areas of the company. Additionally, the R&D scientist will be involved in projects for qualification of raw materials, label compliance, product and ingredient testing, databases, analytical data, among others. The right candidate for this position should be motivated to learn, have critical thinking, be solution-focused, and be a teamwork player.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

  • Follows and supports all Company Safety policies and procedures
  • Responsible for formulation and development of new products
  • Re-engineer existing products
  • Ensure that product aesthetics and other physical attributes are consistent with our customerโ€™s expectations.
  • Ensure label compliance to AAFCO standards
  • Define and ensure all critical factors for ingredients and processing.
  • Ensure that technology transfer into procurement, manufacturing, quality, engineering, and warehousing are well communicated before product commissioning.
  • Ensure feeding studies are completed and meet and/or exceed the benchmark.
  • Participate in the design and execution of trials to improve existing products or new products.
  • Participate in the reviewing of new and existing labels to comply with the regulations.
  • Provide support during critical issues and product performance investigations.
  • Provide support to the management of a root cause analysis of a non-conformance material.
  • Maintains established housekeeping standards for the responsible area.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

none

Qualifications:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and/or Experience:

  1. BS degree in pet food, animal sciences, food sciences, or related field.
  2. Prior pet food R&D experience is highly desirable and preferred.

3. Knowledge and understanding of pet food nutrition and pet food regulations.

4. Strong knowledge of raw materials and ingredients functionality.

5. Ability to work in teams.

6. Knowledge of retorting is a plus but not required.

7. Ability to evaluate research data and draw reasonable conclusions and initiate next steps.

Computer and Technology Skills:

The successful candidate will be proficient in MS Office applications and has experience in Concept 5, Best Mix, or any other formulation software. SAP experience is a plus but not required.

Language Skills:

Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedural manuals. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. Ability to speak effectively before groups of customers or employees of the organization. German language speaking skills is another advantage.

Mathematical Skills:

Ability to work with mathematical concepts such as probability and statistical inference, and ability to apply concepts such as fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to practical situations.

Reasoning Ability:

Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.

Allergen Awareness

Products produced in this facility may contain the following allergens: Egg, Shellfish, Fish, Gluten.

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.