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Food Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Ability to Obtain Public Trust Our federal client conducts microbiological and chemical food safety, nutrition, and food defense research related to regulated food product safety and efficacy. This ...

Ability to Obtain Public Trust Our federal client conducts microbiological and chemical food safety, nutrition, and food defense research related to regulated food product safety and efficacy. This ...

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Showing results 1-20

Food Researcher information

See salary details

$30K

$113.1K

$164.5K

How much do food researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for food researcher in the United States is $113,102.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $154,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a food researcher?

Food Researchers are scientists who study the physical, chemical, and biological properties of food to improve its taste, safety, nutrition, and shelf life. They often work in laboratories, developing new food products, enhancing existing ones, or finding ways to make food production more efficient and sustainable. Their work can involve everything from creating healthier snacks to ensuring food packaging is safe and environmentally friendly. Food Researchers play a crucial role in advancing food technology and ensuring the food we eat is both safe and appealing.

What projects does a food researcher work on, and how do they collaborate with other departments?

Food Researchers often work on projects such as developing new food products, improving existing recipes for better taste or nutrition, and conducting shelf-life studies. Collaboration is key in this role; researchers regularly work alongside food technologists, quality assurance teams, and marketing departments to ensure the final product meets safety standards and consumer preferences. These projects often involve both laboratory experiments and taste tests, requiring strong teamwork and communication skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a food researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Food Researcher, you need a strong background in food science, chemistry, or nutrition, typically backed by at least a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, analytical software, and food safety regulations is crucial, and certifications like HACCP or SQF can be advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help in designing experiments, interpreting data, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualities are vital to ensuring food products are safe, innovative, and meet both regulatory and consumer standards.

What is the difference between Food Researcher vs Food Scientist?

AspectFood ResearcherFood Scientist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Food Science, Nutrition, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Food Science, Food Technology, or related fields
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, food manufacturing plantsLaboratories, quality control labs, food production settings
Industry UsageResearch and development, product innovationProduct development, quality assurance, safety testing
Common Search IntentResearch roles, food innovation, product testingProduct development, quality control, safety standards

Food Researchers focus on conducting experiments and developing new food products or improving existing ones through research. Food Scientists often work on product development, quality assurance, and ensuring food safety. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work in related environments, Food Researchers are more research-oriented, whereas Food Scientists may have broader responsibilities in product and process development.

How to get a job in food research?

To get a job as a food researcher, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in food science, nutrition, or a related field, with advanced degrees preferred for some positions. Relevant skills include laboratory techniques, data analysis, and knowledge of food safety standards. Gaining experience through internships or research projects can improve employment prospects in this field.
More about Food Researcher jobs

What states have the most Food Researcher jobs?

States with the most job openings for Food Researcher jobs include:

Infographic showing various Food Researcher 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 $113,102 per year, or $54.4 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