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Food Science Manager Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Deep knowledge of soil science, plant biology, animal science, agricultural economics, sustainable farming practices, pest management, genetic modification, food science, and environmental ...

Deep knowledge of soil science, plant biology, animal science, agricultural economics, sustainable farming practices, pest management, genetic modification, food science, and environmental ...

Professional & Scientific Required Minimum Qualifications:High school diploma or equivalent and 5 years of related experience Summary The Residential Dining Team is seeking a Manager Food Services I ...

Bachelor's degree in culinary arts, Food Sciences, Graphic Design, or related field. * 5+ years of ... Excellent organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects under tight deadlines.

Job Title: Food Protection/Quality Assurance Manager Department: Manufacturing FLSA: Salary ... Education in a STEM-related field (food science, chemistry, biology, microbiology, engineering, or ...

Job Title: Food Protection/Quality Assurance Manager Department: Manufacturing FLSA: Salary ... Education in a STEM-related field (food science, chemistry, biology, microbiology, engineering, or ...

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Food Science Manager information

See Iowa salary details

$10

$20

$38

How much do food science manager jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for food science manager in Iowa is $20.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.58 and $22.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges food science managers face when leading product development teams?

Food Science Managers often navigate the complex balance between innovation, regulatory compliance, and cost-effectiveness while leading product development teams. They must ensure that new formulations meet safety and quality standards, all while aligning with consumer trends and company goals. Effective communication and collaboration with cross-functional teams—such as marketing, procurement, and quality assurance—are crucial to address these challenges. Additionally, adapting to rapidly changing technologies and market demands can present ongoing hurdles that require flexibility and strategic planning.

What does a food science manager do?

A Food Science Manager oversees teams that develop, test, and improve food products to ensure quality, safety, and compliance with regulations. They manage research projects, coordinate with other departments like production and marketing, and implement quality control standards. Their role often includes supervising food scientists and technologists, analyzing data from experiments, and staying updated on industry trends. Food Science Managers play a key part in launching new products and maintaining the safety and nutritional value of foods.

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

AspectFood Science ManagerFood Technologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or master's in food science, management experienceBachelor's in food science or related field
Work EnvironmentOversees teams, manages projects, strategic planningDevelops and tests food products, laboratory work
Employer & Industry UsageFood manufacturing, quality assurance, R&DProduct development, quality control, testing labs

Food Science Managers typically oversee teams and projects in food companies, requiring management skills and experience, while Food Technologists focus on product development and testing. Both roles are essential in the food industry but differ in scope and responsibilities.

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

To thrive as a Food Science Manager, you need a solid background in food science, chemistry, or a related field, often supported by a bachelor's or master's degree and experience in food product development or quality assurance. Familiarity with laboratory testing equipment, food safety regulations, and systems like HACCP or SQF is typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help you manage teams and collaborate across departments. These skills ensure the development of safe, high-quality products while maintaining regulatory compliance and effective team operations.
What are the most commonly searched types of Food Science jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Food Science jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Food Science Manager jobs in Iowa? For Food Science Manager jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Food Science Manager jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Food Science Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Food Science Manager job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,975 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Food Safety Specialist (Central Iowa)

State of Iowa

Des Moines, IA

$54K - $81K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


State Of Iowa rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 83 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

40th of 50 rated states


Job description

Job Description Does the daily grind have you looking for a new opportunity. Are you seeking a professional level position that gives you the freedom to work independently, manage your own work schedule and provides an opportunity for a good work-life balance. Our team of Food Safety Specialists come from a variety of backgrounds and tend to have a passion for food and public service.

They are primarily responsible for conducting risk-based inspections of a variety of food and lodging businesses. Food Safety Specialists work four ten-hour days and typically begin and end their work day at home. We equip them with a state vehicle, inspection equipment, extensive training, a comprehensive support system and the knowledge they need to thrive.

Candidates for this position must reside in or be willing to relocate to one of the following Iowa counties upon acceptance of the position; Dallas, Polk or Story counties. Who We Are At DIAL, our mission is to Achieve Compliance Through Education, Regulation, and Due Process for a Safe and Healthy Iowa. We strive to be an effective, efficient, and approachable regulatory agency.

DIAL is comprised of eight core operational divisions, including Administrative Hearings, Health & Safety, Licensing, and more. We're not just a regulatory agency, we're a team dedicated to protecting the health, safety, and overall well-being of Iowans. Position Overview: Food Safety Specialists are assigned inspections in a specific geographic region and are responsible for conducting risk-based inspections using an electronic inspection system.

They plan and complete assigned inspections according to policies and procedures. Some inspections are scheduled with the food business; however, most are unannounced. For the technology buffs, some of our inspections are conducted virtually.

During a risk-based inspection our Food Safety Specialists: Observe food handling and sanitation practices and behaviors in restaurants, grocery stores, food trucks, food stands, food processing facilities and other food business Ask investigative and informational questions to understand food preparation processes from beginning to end Identify critical food safety gaps and regulatory violations and work directly with operators to make timely corrections Provide food safety education and resources to food businesses What We're Seeking We're looking for a motivated and organized professional who is passionate about food and public service. Successful candidates will possess the following skills and abilities: Knowledge of the food industry Possesses a high level of organization and communication skills Experience solving problems Displays high standards of professional conduct, and Curious, inquisitive and detail-oriented What We Offer Joining DIAL means contributing to a safer and healthier Iowa, and in return, you will enjoy: Robust benefits, including excellent health, dental, life and vision insurance. Four ten-hour working days a week Home-based work environment Generous paid time off, including vacation, paid holidays, and sick leave accrual.

Opportunities for professional development. Flexible Spending Accounts for medical and dependent care. Iowa Public Employee Retirement System (IPERS) Retirement Package.

Optional 401A plan with employer contribution. Retirement Investors Club (Employer Sponsored Retirement Plan). Employee Assistance Program for support when you need it most.

Employee Discount Programs from a variety of vendors (vision, cellular, fitness, and more) For additional information on benefits click here. Excited to pursue the next step in your career. Apply today and be part of a team making a difference in Iowa.

Background check required. Food Science selective is required (12 semester hours in microbiology, biology, food science, chemistry, hospitality management or other science related to food safety OR 6 months of experience applying food science and microbiology knowledge to prepare or process food safely, including but not limited to managing a food establishment's food safety program, quality assurance staff, chef, or management of a food establishment or manufacturing facility; experience applying food safety regulations such as the FDA Food Code or Good Manufacturing Practices; or a combination of both experience and education. E-Verify and Right to Work The State of Iowa participates in E-Verify, a federal program that helps employers confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees.

Within the required timeframe, new hires will be verified through the E-Verify system to ensure authorization to work in the United States. The State of Iowa also complies with the federal Right to Work laws, which protect employees' rights to work without being required to join a labor organization. For more information, please visit www.e-verify.gov

Selectives 941 Food Science 12 semester hours in microbiology, biology, food science, chemistry, hospitality management or other science related to food safety OR 6 months of experience applying food science and microbiology knowledge to prepare or process food safely, including but not limited to managing a food establishment's food safety program, quality assurance staff, chef, or management of a food establishment or manufacturing facility; experience applying food safety regulations such as the FDA Food Code or Good Manufacturing Practices; or a combination of both experience and education. Minimum Qualification Requirements Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's Degree in natural science; OR An equivalent combination of experience and education substituting one year of full-time professional work in an environmental, radiation control, environmental health or food sanitation program for each year (30 semester hours) of the required education. For additional information, please click on this link to view the job description.


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State of Iowa logo

About State of Iowa

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Iowa is not a company but the governmental structure of the U.S. state of Iowa, stationed in the capital city, Des Moines. The official website, iowa.gov, is a platform dedicated to providing information and services related to the state's governance. As a governmental establishment, the State of Iowa's 'industry' primarily involves social governance, policy-making, and public administration, overseeing sectors like education, health, transportation, agriculture, and other public services.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Des Moines, IA, US

Year founded

1939