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Food Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Flora Food Group

R&D Food Scientist

Hugoton, KS

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 ...

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.

5th HQ

Product Development Manager

Pembroke Pines, FL · On-site

$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 ...

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 ...

SpaceX

Executive Sous Chef

Bastrop, TX

$64K - $82K/yr

From daily dining to VIP events, and even potential space flight food R&D, this position requires a versatile set of restaurant industry skills and an imagination without bounds. RESPONSIBILITIES:

System One

Food Science Research Engineer

Hershey, PA · On-site

Food Science Research Engineer Location: Hershey, PA Type: Contract Work Model: Onsite - Responsibilities * Develop and optimize chemical, biological, or mechanical processes related to food ...

INA Solution Inc

R&D Food Scientist

Louisville, CO · On-site

$30 - $36/hr

Job Title: R&D Food Scientist Location: Louisville, CO Type: C2H Requirements: * Degree in Food Science (or related) + relevant experience * Food/beverage product development & commercialization ...

Yost Foods

Product Development Manager

Brunswick, OH · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Biology, or related field * 5-7 years of experience in food research & development * Strong leadership and project management skills with the ability to ...

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Food Research information

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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:
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 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 Food Scientist

Flora Food Group

Hugoton, KS

Other

Re-posted 5 hours ago

Job description

Location: On-Site at Hugoton, KS Factory
 
Reports To: 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 assist with trial execution, data collection, and commissioning of new production lines, while ensuring hygiene, safety, and efficiency in our experimental platform. You'll also coordinate the collection of sales samples and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.

This is a hands-on role for someone passionate about food science and process engineering who thrives in a collaborative, fast-paced manufacturing environment.

What You'll Do 

Pilot Plant Operations

  • Assist in planning and executing pilot plant trials with R&D project leads.
  • Prepare equipment configurations and manage raw material and packaging inventory.
  • Support trial execution, troubleshooting, and post-trial cleaning (CIP).
  • Collect, format, and analyze trial data from acquisition systems.
  • Maintain hygiene, safety, and first-level maintenance of pilot plant equipment.

Production Support & Industrial Implementation

  • Support commissioning of new production lines by verifying process parameters and product specifications.
  • Collaborate with R&D, Quality, Engineering, and Operations for smooth product scale-up.
  • Participate in factory audits and identify optimization opportunities.
  • Monitor product quality during production runs and assist in root cause analysis.

Continuous Improvement & Documentation

  • Contribute to shop floor improvement initiatives focused on performance KPIs.
  • Update SOPs and maintain documentation related to pilot plant operations and safety.
  • Stay current with food processing technologies and propose equipment upgrades.

Training & Collaboration

  • Assist in training interns and temporary staff on pilot plant procedures and safety protocols.
  • Participate in technical workshops and cross-functional collaboration for product launches.

About You 

  • Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Chemical Engineering, Bioprocessing, or related field
  • 5+ years of experience in food manufacturing operations.
  • Internship or academic experience in a pilot plant or food manufacturing preferred.
  • Strong foundation in food science and process engineering; hands-on experience on the plant floor.
  • Basic understanding of food processing equipment and hygienic design.
  • Experience in improving processes, recipes, equipment upgrades, and testing methodologies.
  • Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.
  • Team-oriented with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and data analysis tools.

What's next 

If this position sounds interesting, please hit the apply button now!  

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