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Food Science Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Emphasizes scientific inquiry and connects agricultural science to food security, climate change adaptation, and rural economic development. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar ...

Emphasizes scientific inquiry and connects agricultural science to food security, climate change adaptation, and rural economic development. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar ...

Bachelor 's degree in Meat Science, Food Science, Animal Science, or related discipline; Master's or PhD preferredMinimum of 3-5 years of hands-on experience in meat / food product developmentStrong ...

ANIMAL AND FOOD SCIENCES Work Location Lexington, KY Salary Range $22,000 Type of Position Student Position Time Status Part-Time Required Education Master's degree Required Related Experience Animal ...

ANIMAL AND FOOD SCIENCES Work Location Lexington, KY Salary Range $22,000 Type of Position Student Position Time Status Part-Time Required Education Master's degree Required Related Experience Animal ...

Quality Intern

Louisville, KY

$13.50 - $17.75/hr

The ideal candidate is currently enrolled in a relevant academicprogram and has a strong interest in quality assurance, food science,regulatory affairs, or a related field. Essential Duties and ...

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Food Science information

See Kentucky salary details

$10

$19

$29

How much do food science jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for food science in Kentucky is $19.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.18 and $24.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a food science?

A Food Science job involves applying biology, chemistry, and engineering principles to develop and improve food products, ensure safety, and enhance nutritional value. Professionals in this field work in research, quality control, product development, and regulatory compliance. They collaborate with food manufacturers, government agencies, and research institutions to innovate food processing techniques and maintain industry standards.

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

To thrive in Food Science, you need a solid background in chemistry, microbiology, and food processing, often supported by a degree in food science or a related field. Experience with laboratory equipment, food safety standards (like HACCP), and quality control systems is typically essential. Strong analytical thinking, teamwork, and effective communication skills help professionals excel in this role. These abilities are critical to ensuring product quality, safety, and innovation in the food industry.

What does a food science do?

A Food Science professional's daily tasks can include developing new food products, conducting laboratory tests for quality and safety, analyzing ingredient properties, and ensuring compliance with food regulations. Professionals often collaborate closely with production teams, quality assurance departments, and research & development groups to optimize processes and resolve technical challenges. Regular responsibilities may also involve documenting findings, presenting research, and staying updated on industry trends and food safety standards. This role is dynamic and offers opportunities to contribute to projects that directly impact consumer health and satisfaction.

Which job is best in food science?

The best job in food science depends on individual interests and skills, but roles such as food scientist, quality assurance manager, or product development scientist are highly regarded. These positions often require knowledge of food safety regulations, laboratory skills, and sometimes advanced degrees or certifications. They typically involve working in laboratories, manufacturing facilities, or research settings to improve food quality and safety.

What can you do with a food science degree?

A food science degree prepares individuals for careers in food product development, quality assurance, food safety, and research. Graduates can work in manufacturing, regulatory agencies, or research laboratories, often utilizing skills in chemistry, microbiology, and food processing techniques.

Is a food science degree worth it?

A food science degree prepares individuals for careers in food product development, quality assurance, and safety, often requiring knowledge of chemistry, microbiology, and food processing techniques. It can lead to roles in manufacturing, research, and regulatory agencies, with job prospects influenced by industry demand and certifications. The degree provides a solid foundation for entering the food industry but should be complemented with practical experience or specialized training for better opportunities.
What are the most commonly searched types of Food Science jobs in Kentucky? The most popular types of Food Science jobs in Kentucky are:
What are popular job titles related to Food Science jobs in Kentucky? For Food Science jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Food Science jobs? Cities in Kentucky with the most Food Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Food Science job openings in Kentucky as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, and 30% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,800 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Director of Bakery Science & Innovation

Dawn Foods

Louisville, KY • Hybrid

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted yesterday


Dawn Foods rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

197th of 436 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Dawn Foods is a global leader in bakery manufacturing and ingredients distribution. As the partner of choice for inspiring bakery success, we helpcustomers grow their business through meaningful partnerships, research-driven insights and innovations, and products and expertise they can depend on. As a family-owned company, our commitments to our people, products, customers, and corporate values, are all part of our recipe for success.Why work for Dawn Foods?PEOPLE. PRODUCTS. CUSTOMERS.Why should you apply? We invest in you!Industry-leading health insurance on Day 1!Competitive Pay401(K) + company match10 Paid Company HolidaysPaid Time OffProfessional trainingFamily-owned business over 100 years in serviceAn opportunity for career advancement, working as part of an empowering workforceJob Purpose and OverviewThis position is responsible for coordinating the development and implementation of key Bakery Science and Packaging Engineering activities within Dawn Foods as well as the execution of long-term Regional Innovation. In addition, this role will be expected to coordinate with the Global Innovation team to ensure that North America is participating in the right Global Innovation projects as well as aware of what innovations are being worked in the other regions (Europe and LATAM) and create prioritization for what can be leveraged back to NA.This role is expected to help transform Dawn?s understanding of the science of baking, ingredient science, processing capabilities, as well as the interaction between ingredients and equipment. This should be focused on creating value through this scientific understanding, allowing us to create a competitive advantage in the market. This position is also responsible for the supervision and development of several food scientists and packaging engineers. This is a hybrid position based in either Jackson, Michigan or Louisville, Kentucky, with up to 20% travel required. Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates based on business needs and eligibility.What You?ll Do as a Director of Bakery Science and Innovation at Dawn Foods? Leads the long-term product and packaging innovation process for Dawn North America.Develop new methods and tools to enhance and integrate emerging technologies into new and existing products creating meaningful differentiation in the market.Proven leadership, communication, and diplomacy skills necessary to effect evolutionary change in Dawn.Developed people leader who motivates teams and individuals.Solid business acumen to be able to translate technology possibilities into opportunities for Dawn.Creates and maintains methods for establishing project priorities, defining metrics, and tracking project progress.Maintains and evaluates a comprehensive list of innovation opportunities and technology advancements.Provides guidance and support for team members? development including individual development plans and performance reviews.Creates accountability around solid scientific processes with the ability to teach these to other functions.Ability to enhance the Science of Baking at Dawn and scientific understanding of our ingredients and processes.Ability to work cross-functionally to aid in a variety of projects (quality issues, capital execution, supply chain constraints, cost reduction opportunities) using solid scientific understanding and processes to allow for non-obvious solutions.Ability to understand and leverage the interaction between our capital equipment, manufacturing processes, and ingredients to control finished product outputs, quality, and performance.Understand and promote the philosophies and policies of Dawn Food Products, Inc. supporting the Circle of Excellence.Other duties or assignments as needed.What Does It Take to be a Director of Bakery Science and Innovation at Dawn Foods? Below are the minimum qualifications to be a fit for this job. A bachelor?s degree in food science, Material Science and Engineering, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or similar disciplines and 8+ years of relevant experience-or-Master?s degree in food science, Material Science and Engineering, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or similar disciplines and 6+ years of relevant experience-or-PhD in Food Science, Material Science and Engineering, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or similar disciplines and 4+ years of relevant experience.Proven track record with a minimum of 2 years in people management (developing, coaching, mentoring, directing) and budget management.Experience with using a full range of statistical and analytical tools and fundamentals.Ability to be self-directed, forward-thinking, and make complex decisions that drive business performance.The ability to leverage external networks to build a pipeline of emerging technologies.High level of business acumen to understand which technologies apply to Dawn and how to create meaningful value through these technologies.Demonstratable ability in sound scientific processesExperience in Processing R&D and the interaction between ingredients and processing technology and its impact on finished goods performance.Experience in ingredient technology and/or processing is desired.Working in B2B, CPG, or other food background desired.Physical Demands & Work EnvironmentThe physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by a Team Member to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.The normal setting for this job is an office environment or work-from-home office with up to 20% travel.Ability to work at a computer for extended periods (up to 8 hours per day).Required to use motor coordination with arm, hand, finger, and leg dexterity.Ability to participate in virtual meetings and in-person collaboration as needed.Note: The level of physical effort may vary from site to site and in some cases be greater or lesser than documented hereIf this sounds like the opportunity that you have been looking for, please click "Apply. About Our BenefitsDawn is proud to employ the top talent in the baking industry, and we reward our people with comprehensive health and well-being coverage, competitive compensation packages, and award-winning benefit offerings. We also help protect your future financial health with a generous 401(k) matching program that provides additional retirement funds and many tools and resources on financial wellness. Dawn encourages professional growth through tuition assistance and educational programs, and we are always searching for ways to improve our industry-leading services and benefits.Compensation:Base Salary $124,750 - $212,070 with bonus potential#LI-JR1 #HybridAn Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity/gender expression, citizenship status, military or veteran status, genetic information or any other status or condition that is protected by applicable law.Requisition ID: 38133

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