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Food Science Contract Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Buyer - Seafood

Anaheim, CA ยท On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

Strong ability to negotiate contracts, prices, and terms. * Industry Knowledge: Deep understanding ... science, or equivalent experience in butchery or food service procurement.

Buyer - Seafood

Anaheim, CA ยท On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

Strong ability to negotiate contracts, prices, and terms. * Industry Knowledge: Deep understanding ... science, or equivalent experience in butchery or food service procurement.

Certified Group is committed to partnering with customers to deliver innovative scientific ... the food industry. * Labstat - A global leader in contract research and testing for nicotine ...

Certified Group is committed to partnering with customers to deliver innovative scientific ... the food industry. * Labstat - A global leader in contract research and testing for nicotine ...

People Safety Specialist

San Dimas, CA ยท On-site

$73K - $110K/yr

... contract manufacturer that partners with world-renowned food brands, retailers, and food service ... Bachelor's degree in Occupational Health and Safety, Environmental Science, or a related field.

Showing results 41-60

Food Science Contract information

See Riverside, CA salary details

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$23

$35

How much do food science contract jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for food science contract in Riverside, CA is $23.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $29.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Food Science Contract vs Food Technologist?

AspectFood Science ContractFood Technologist
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in food science or related fieldRequires a degree in food science, food technology, or related discipline
Work EnvironmentProject-based, often temporary roles in labs or manufacturing facilitiesFull-time roles in food production, R&D, or quality assurance departments
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by companies hiring temporary or specialized food science expertsCommonly employed by food manufacturers, processing plants, and R&D labs

Food Science Contract roles are typically temporary, project-specific positions requiring a food science background, while Food Technologists usually hold full-time roles focused on product development, quality, and safety within the food industry. Both roles require similar credentials but differ mainly in employment type and scope.

What is a food science contract?

Food science contracts are agreements between organizations or individuals and food scientists or firms to provide specialized expertise in areas such as product development, food safety, quality control, regulatory compliance, or research and development. These contracts often define the scope of work, deliverables, timelines, and payment terms. Companies may use food science contracts to access expert knowledge without hiring full-time staff, ensuring projects are completed efficiently and meet industry standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a food science contract role?

To excel in a Food Science Contract position, you generally need a degree in food science or a related field, along with knowledge of food safety regulations and laboratory techniques. Familiarity with quality control systems, analytical testing instruments, and certifications like HACCP or SQF is often required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help contract food scientists work efficiently with clients and teams. These competencies are critical for ensuring product safety, regulatory compliance, and the successful delivery of contract-based food science projects.

What are some typical challenges faced when working on food science contracts, and how can they be managed?

Professionals working on food science contracts often encounter challenges such as tight project deadlines, strict regulatory requirements, and the need to coordinate with cross-functional teams like R&D, quality assurance, and production. Managing these challenges involves clear communication, staying updated on industry regulations, and being adaptable to shifting project scopes. Building strong relationships with both internal teams and external clients helps ensure that deliverables meet expectations and compliance standards. Proactive problem-solving and time management are essential skills in this dynamic environment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Food Science jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Food Science jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Food Science Contract jobs in Riverside, CA? For Food Science Contract jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Food Science Contract jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Food Science Contract job openings:

Buyer - Seafood

Jetro Restaurant Depot

Anaheim, CA โ€ข On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

JOB DETAILS
Position: Seafood Buyer
Department: Procurement
Reports To: Category Manager or Director of Purchasing
Restaurant Depot is the nation's leading members-only, wholesale cash-and-carry supplier serving independent restaurants, caterers, food trucks, delis, convenience stores, and other foodservice businesses. We operate in 35 states with over 160 locations nationwide. Our warehouses offer bulk quantities of fresh meat, seafood, produce, dairy, a wide selection of frozen foods, grocery items, beverages, paper goods, cleaning supplies, and restaurant equipment. Open seven days a week, we are committed to supporting primary business owners who buy in volume and depend on consistent quality and value. As we continue to grow each year, we are looking to bring on individuals who embody the entrepreneurial spirit and are driven to support the success of small businesses.
Position Summary
The Seafood Buyer is responsible for supporting the procurement and management of assigned product categories to ensure strong in-stock conditions, competitive pricing, and healthy inventory turns. This role works closely with vendors/suppliers, warehouse operations, logistics, and sales teams to maintain product flow and support overall company profitability.
Qualifications
  1. Bachelor's degree in business, supply chain, or related field preferred
  2. 1-5 years of purchasing, inventory, merchandising, or supply chain experience (food industry preferred)
  3. Strong analytical and organizational skills
  4. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel
  5. Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
  6. Strong communication and problem-solving skills

Key Responsibilities
Purchasing & Inventory Management
  1. Place purchase orders based on demand forecasts and inventory levels
  2. Monitor daily inventory reports to prevent out-of-stocks and overstock situations
  3. Maintain appropriate inventory levels to support sales while minimizing shrink
  4. Track and manage open purchase orders to ensure timely delivery

Vendor Coordination
  1. Communicate with vendors regarding pricing, availability, and lead times
  2. Assist in negotiating costs and resolving discrepancies
  3. Support onboarding of new suppliers and item setups

Pricing & Cost Management
  1. Maintain accurate cost and retail pricing in system
  2. Monitor cost changes and communicate updates to internal stakeholders
  3. Assist with margin analysis and competitive price checks

Cross-Functional Support
  1. Partner with warehouse and logistics teams to resolve receiving issues
  2. Work with operations to address product quality concerns
  3. Support promotional planning and execution

Data & Reporting
  1. Analyze sales trends and product performance
  2. Prepare reports on inventory levels, vendor performance, and category results

Work Environment
  1. Office-based with periodic warehouse interaction
  2. Fast-paced, high-volume wholesale environment
  3. May require early hours depending on assigned category

Compensation and Benefits:
  1. Competitive salary commensurate with experience
  2. Performance-based bonus potential
  3. Comprehensive benefits package
  4. Health, Dental & Vision Insurance
  5. Company Matched 401K
  6. Vacation, Personal & Sick Time

A Seafood Buyer sources, negotiates, and purchases fresh seafood products for wholesale, or food service, ensuring high quality, optimal inventory levels, and profitability. They analyze market trends to manage costs and build supplier relationships, often working in fast-paced environments. Key duties include vendor evaluation, inventory control, and ensuring compliance with food safety regulations.
Key Responsibilities
  1. Supplier Relations: Evaluate, select, and negotiate with vendors to secure the best prices and quality.
  2. Procurement and Inventory: Manage purchasing orders to maintain optimal inventory levels, reducing waste and preventing stockouts.
  3. Quality Assurance: Ensure all seafood products meet HACCP food safety standards and quality specifications.
  4. Market Analysis: Monitor market trends, price fluctuations, and supply chain dynamics to make informed buying decisions.
  5. Merchandising Support: Collaborate with departments on inventory display, pricing strategies, and product promotion.

Required Skills and Qualifications
  1. Negotiation Skills: Strong ability to negotiate contracts, prices, and terms.
  2. Industry Knowledge: Deep understanding of meat cuts, quality grades, and industry regulations.
  3. Analytical Skills: Ability to analyze market reports and inventory data.
  4. Organization: Highly organized to handle purchasing logistics and maintain records.
  5. Education/Experience: Often requires a degree in agribusiness, animal science, or equivalent experience in butchery or food service procurement.