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Food Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Farmer's Fridge Careers

R&D Chef

Chicago, IL · 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.

Farmer's Fridge

R&D Chef

Chicago, IL · 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.

7-Eleven

Technical R+D Manager, Food/Bev

Irving, TX · On-site

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

Kraft Heinz Company

Packaging R&D Co-op

Glenview, IL · 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 ...

5th HQ

Formula Development Manager

Miramar, FL

$80K/yr

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 ...

Flora Food Group

R&D Food Scientist

Hugoton, KS · On-site

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 ...

Kraft Heinz

Packaging R&D Co-op

Glenview, IL

$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 ...

Flora Food Group

R&D Food Scientist

Liberal, KS · On-site

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 ...

Flora Food Group

R&D Food Scientist

Hugoton, KS · On-site

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 ...

Kraft Heinz

Packaging R&D Co-op

Warrendale, PA

$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 ...

Flora Food Group

R&D Food Scientist

Hugoton, KS · On-site

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

$24

$51

How much do food research jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 26, 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 does a food researcher do?

A food researcher studies the properties, safety, and quality of food products to develop new items or improve existing ones. They analyze ingredients, conduct experiments, and use laboratory tools to ensure food meets safety standards and consumer preferences. Strong knowledge of food science, chemistry, and research methods is essential for this role.

What is the highest paying job in food science?

In food science, senior roles such as Food Science Directors or R&D Managers typically have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures. These positions require advanced education, extensive experience, and strong leadership skills, and they often involve overseeing product development, quality assurance, or regulatory compliance.

What jobs pay $2000 a day?

In the field of food research, high-paying roles such as senior food scientists, research directors, or consultants can earn around $2,000 per day, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, or consulting contracts. These positions often require advanced degrees, industry expertise, and may involve project-based or contract work. Such high daily rates are typically associated with senior-level or freelance roles rather than standard employment.

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.

How to get a job in food research?

To get a job in food research, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in food science, nutrition, or a related field, with advanced roles often requiring a master's or Ph.D. Additionally, skills in laboratory techniques, data analysis, and familiarity with food safety standards are important. Gaining experience through internships or research projects can improve employment prospects.
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:
What job categories do people searching Food Research jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Food Research jobs are:
Food Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Research job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% 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.

Sr. Manager, Incubation R&D & Technical Prototyping

SAMYANG AMERICA INC

Brea, CA • On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

About Samyang America

Samyang America stands as the #1 Gen Z brand, boldly shaping the future of food culture with innovative flavors, viral trends, and unforgettable brand experiences. We don’t just create food - we craft moments that spark excitement, inspire connection, and celebrate bold individuality.

Our mission is to bring daring, delicious products to the market that resonate deeply with the next generation of food lovers. From iconic spicy noodles to creative new launches, we are driven by passion, creativity, and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of taste and culture.

At Samyang America, you’ll join a dynamic team that thrives on innovation, collaboration, and a shared love for bold flavor experiences. We value fresh ideas, energetic spirit, and the courage to lead trends rather than follow them.


If you’re ready to be part of a brand that’s more than just food - a brand that moves culture and creates unforgettable moments - join our team today!

Position Summary:

We are seeking a Senior Manager of Incubation R&D to lead rapid prototyping and technical feasibility development for disruptive and architectural innovation initiatives. This role will operate at the intersection of emerging technology, ingredient systems, and product experience.

This is a fast-paced, experimentation-focused R&D role — distinct from traditional commercialization pipelines.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Develop rapid prototypes across emerging product platforms

  • Lead the development of company food product prototyping capability.

    • Recommend a comprehensive plan that should include build/partner/contract options and considerations.

  • Assess ingredient systems, processing feasibility, and scalability risks

  • Collaborate with suppliers and pilot facilities

  • Conduct early regulatory and compliance assessments

  • Iterate prototypes based on consumer and market feedback

  • Prepare technical transition packages for scale-up

Requirements:

  • 8–15+ years experience in food R&D or technical product development

  • Strong knowledge of formulation, ingredient functionality, and processing

  • Experience bringing new technologies or formats to market

  • Ability to operate in rapid iteration environments

  • Strong cross-functional collaboration skills

  • Experience in alternative proteins, fermentation, functional ingredients, or emerging food technologies

  • Experience in early-stage innovation environments

  • Regulatory familiarity (FDA/USDA)


Preferred:

  • Experience in alternative proteins, fermentation, functional ingredients, or emerging food technologies

  • Experience in early-stage innovation environments with a passion for getting to “looks like, tastes like” protocepts quickly

  • Regulatory familiarity (FDA/USDA)

  • Complements a strong knowledge of the applicable science with a “hands on” approach to translating it into the MVP (minimum viable product)


Success Profile:

  • Technically creative

  • Structured yet agile

  • Comfortable with ambiguity

  • Solution-oriented and experimental

  • Strong problem-solving ability


The base salary for this position is between $110,000.00 and $140,000.00 per year. Actual compensation will depend on a variety of factors, including qualifications, experience, and location. This position may also be eligible for additional compensation and benefits, including an annual incentive bonus, medical/dental/vision insurance, life insurance, PTO/FTO, and a 401(k) plan with company match.


Equal Employment Opportunity Employer:

Samyang America is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals. We do not discriminate in employment decisions on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.