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Food Science Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Food Science information

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How much do food science jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for food science in Virginia is $22.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.20 and $28.12 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 Virginia? The most popular types of Food Science jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Food Science jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Food Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Food Science job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, and 26% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,573 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Senior Scientist - New Product Development

Altria Group, Inc.

Richmond, VA • On-site

$91K - $132K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Altria Group rating

9.4

Company rating: 9.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Title: Senior Scientist - New Product Development
Req Id: 3217
Work Model: On-Site
Company: Altria Client Services
State/Province: Virginia
Job Description:
Together We Innovate. Together We Change.
Advance innovative oral nicotine products for next-generation reduced-harm solutions at a Fortune 500 company. Do you have an advanced degree in chemistry, food science, pharmaceutical science, chemical engineering, or a related discipline, along with 3+ years of industrial experience? If so, we want to speak with you!
We are currently looking for a Senior Scientist - New Product Development to join Altria's Growth Org and Front-End Innovation (FEI) Technical team in Richmond, Virginia. In this role, you will translate consumer needs and product requirements into technically sound product opportunities, support early-stage projects across existing and emerging oral nicotine segments, and evaluate technologies that advance concepts toward feasibility, regulatory readiness, and commercialization.
What you will be doing:
  • Translate consumer insights and product requirements into oral nicotine product concepts that address unmet adult tobacco consumer needs.
  • Design and execute proof-of-concept studies, using iterative prototyping to evaluate feasibility and advance promising concepts.
  • Develop formulations using ingredient selection, controlled-release technologies, and materials processing techniques to achieve targeted product attributes.
  • Conduct rapid prototype screening using chemical analysis and material characterization to guide formulation and process iterations.
  • Partner with cross-functional teams to align technical work, communicate findings, and support project decisions.
  • Protect company intellectual property by preparing invention disclosures and supporting patent filing activities.
  • Build and maintain lab-scale capabilities, equipment, and workflows that enable rapid prototyping and early feasibility assessments.

We want you to have:
  • Advanced degree in chemistry, food science, pharmaceutical science, chemical engineering, or a related discipline.
  • 3+ years of industrial experience in product development, formulation, or applied research.
  • Hands-on experience with analytical testing and material characterization methods.
  • Knowledge of formulation development, ingredient functionality, experimental design, stability, processing, and data analysis.
  • Experience handling hazardous chemicals, including nicotine, in a laboratory environment.
  • Strong execution, collaboration, communication, and prioritization skills in a dynamic project environment.

The starting salary is based on but not limited to experience, knowledge, and qualifications in determining compensation decisions. The Salary Range for this position is: $91,500.00 - $132,750.00.
Why You'll Love Building Your Career at Altria
At Altria, we believe a great career starts with feeling supported - both at work and in life. Here's what you'll find here:
  • Work where life works for you - with flexible and remote options that fit your world, not the other way around.
  • Own your time - start with 15 days of paid time off, 13 paid holidays, 2 floating holiday days, and a 37.5-hour workweek so you can recharge and live fully
  • A place where you belong - where your ideas are welcomed, your growth is encouraged, and your impact is real
  • Get recognized for your work - annual merit increases and performance bonus
  • A future you can count on - 401(k) matching from day one; plus Deferred Profit Sharing, an annual company contribution in an amount equal to 13%-17% of your base salary
  • Help with your goals - get help with student loan repayment assistance, attend a conference, or gain a new certification with professional development stipends
  • Support for what matters most - comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family
  • Celebrating your milestones - paid parental and bonding leave for life's biggest moments.
  • Wellness that goes beyond work - programs that care for your whole well-being at whatever stage you are in your life
  • A culture that gives back - paid volunteer days and a shared commitment to making a difference

At Altria, we offer more than benefits - we offer a career that fits your life, rewards your ambition, and celebrates your impact.
This position is not eligible for sponsorship.
Altria is a Fortune 500 company that has a leading portfolio of products for U.S. adult tobacco and nicotine consumers 21+. For decades we've been leaders in the tobacco industry, but the industry is evolving - and so are we. Our Vision is Moving Beyond Smoking™.
At Altria, we celebrate the power of diverse teams working together to shape our future. Each Altria company is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to providing individuals with criminal records, including formerly incarcerated individuals and individuals with conviction records, a fair chance at employment. Join us as we work together to shape a better future for adult tobacco consumers, our employees, and our shareholders.
Altria is the parent company of Philip Morris USA, John Middleton, U.S. Smokeless Tobacco, Helix Innovations, and NJOY. Altria complements its tobacco portfolio with equity investments in Anheuser-Busch InBev and Cronos Group.
Learn more about Altria at www.altria.com and follow us on LinkedIn.

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