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Food Science Research Assistant Jobs in Minnesota

Three Point Solutions, Inc.

R&D Food Scientist

Plymouth, MN · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Assist with corrective actions and root cause analysis • Participate in the Food Safety Team ... Minimum Requirements: • Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Microbiology, or related ...

University of Minnesota

Assistant Professor

Minneapolis, MN

$88K - $95K/mo

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

About the Job Assistant Professor in Food Systems & Community Nutrition Extension Department of ... research activities that supports the mission of the Department of Food Science and Nutrition and ...

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All JobsFood Science Research JobsFood Science Research Assistant JobsFood Science Research Assistant Jobs in Minnesota

Food Science Research Assistant information

See Minnesota salary details

$8

$21

$31

How much do food science research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for food science research assistant in Minnesota is $21.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.12 and $24.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Food Science Research Assistant vs Food Technologist?

AspectFood Science Research AssistantFood Technologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in food science or related fieldBachelor's or master's degree in food science or related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, academic institutionsFood manufacturing plants, quality control labs, R&D departments
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, universities, food companiesFood production companies, quality assurance, product development
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Food Science Research Assistant primarily supports research projects in laboratories and academic settings, focusing on experimental work and data analysis. In contrast, a Food Technologist typically works in food manufacturing or quality control, applying scientific principles to develop, improve, and ensure the safety of food products. While both roles require a background in food science, their work environments and responsibilities differ significantly.

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

To thrive as a Food Science Research Assistant, you need a solid background in food science, chemistry, or biology, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, food analysis techniques, data analysis software, and adherence to safety protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for success in research settings. These skills ensure accurate data collection, safe laboratory practices, and productive collaboration on scientific projects.

What are some common challenges faced by food science research assistants when working on product development projects?

Food Science Research Assistants often encounter challenges such as meeting strict deadlines for product testing, troubleshooting unexpected results during experiments, and balancing multiple projects simultaneously. Collaborating closely with cross-functional teams like quality assurance, production, and marketing requires strong communication skills and adaptability. Staying updated with regulatory requirements and maintaining meticulous documentation are also essential to ensure the integrity and reproducibility of research findings.

What does a food science research assistant do?

A Food Science Research Assistant supports scientists in developing and analyzing food products, ingredients, and processing methods. Their tasks often include preparing samples, running laboratory tests, collecting and recording data, and maintaining lab equipment. They may also assist in conducting experiments to improve food safety, quality, and shelf life. The role requires attention to detail, basic laboratory skills, and a background in food science or a related field.
What are the most commonly searched types of Food Science Research jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Food Science Research jobs in Minnesota are:
What are popular job titles related to Food Science Research Assistant jobs in Minnesota? For Food Science Research Assistant jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Food Science Research Assistant jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Food Science Research Assistant jobs in Minnesota are:
Food Science Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Science Research Assistant job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, and 23% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,633 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Research and Development Food Scientist

Catallia Mexican Foods

Eagan, MN

$83K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Catallia Mexican Foods is looking for an experienced Research amp; Development Food Scientist with expertise in tortilla products to join our team!

If you're passionate about product innovation, food science, and bringing high-quality tortilla products to market, we'd love to hear from you!

Apply today directly on our careers page: https://catallia.com/apply/

Position Overview:

The R amp;D Food Scientist is responsible for leading product development projects from concept through commercialization. This position serves as the technical expert for product formulation, ingredient functionality, process optimization, and commercialization activities within the manufacturing facility. The Food Scientist will design experiments, lead plant trials, troubleshoot formulation and processing challenges, and collaborate cross-functionally with Operations, Quality, Supply Chain, Engineering, Procurement, Sales, and customers to successfully commercialize new products and improve existing products. The ideal candidate possesses strong food science fundamentals, experience in bakery or tortilla manufacturing, and a proven ability to solve complex technical challenges in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Previous R amp;D experience with tortillas is required. Candidates without direct tortilla development experience or experience with grain-based products will not be considered.
Key Responsibilities amp; Essential Functions
  • Lead formulation development for new and existing products
  • Apply food chemistry and ingredient functionality principles to optimize formulations
  • Evaluate alternative ingredients for cost savings, quality improvements, and supply continuity
  • Develop product specifications and manufacturing procedures
  • Establish critical processing parameters for successful commercialization
  • Conduct root cause investigations for product quality issues
  • Analyze plant trial data and make technical recommendations
  • Collaborate with Quality on product standards and specifications
  • Support customer technical meetings and commercialization activities
  • Identify continuous improvement opportunities for products and processes
  • Maintain detailed technical documentation and project records and provide recommendations based on scientific evidence
  • Support regulatory compliance, including ingredient statements, nutritional labeling, allergen management, and product claims
  • Participate in Stage Gate activities and assist the team in achieving the success of projects
  • Provide recommendations with regards to processing equipment and troubleshoot issues that affect quality and/or OEEs in production
  • Provide technical leadership during commercialization projects
General Responsibilities
  • Actively participate in all product development activities
  • Perform additional duties as directed
Education amp; Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related scientific discipline required
  • Master's degree in Food Science preferred
  • 3+ years of product development experience within a food manufacturing environment required
  • Experience developing and commercializing bakery, tortilla, or grain-based products required
  • Demonstrated experience leading plant trials and scale-up activities
  • Strong understanding of ingredient functionality, food chemistry, and food processing
  • Experience with nutritional labeling software preferred
  • Experience with Stage-Gate product development process preferred
Specific Competencies
  • Excellent Understanding of Bakery equipment
  • Solid background in food science and basic math
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and set priorities
  • Strong interpersonal and oral/written communication skills
  • Strong planning and organizational skills
  • English language proficiency, both written and verbal
  • Demonstrated strong problem-solving and troubleshooting capabilities
General Competencies
  • Integrity
  • Hands on individual
  • Self-motivated
  • Flexibility
  • Ability to work alone or on teams
Physical Requirements
  • Able to occasionally lift 25lbs
  • Must be physically able to stand, walk, reach, climb or balance, and kneel frequently during plant trials
  • Prolonged periods of standing or sitting at a desk and working on a computer
Position Backup
  • Absences covered by the Food Scientist or R amp;D Manager

Apply