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Food Science Jobs in Union, KY (NOW HIRING)

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

Requirements * Bachelor's in Chemistry, Food Science, Microbiology, or related field. * 3+ years in Quality Assurance or Food Safety. * Familiarity with ISO 9001/22000, FSSC 22000, FDA (PCQI ...

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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 Union, KY is $20.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.95 and $25.96 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 popular job titles related to Food Science jobs in Union, KY? For Food Science jobs in Union, KY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Union, KY are hiring for Food Science jobs? Cities near Union, KY with the most Food Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Food Science job openings in Union, KY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, and 29% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,021 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Director of Food Science

Sugar Creek Packing Co.

West Chester, OH • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


SugarCreek rating

4.6

Company rating: 4.6 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

416th of 437 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Sugar Creek Packing Co., founded in 1966, is a flourishing privately held, family owned food company. Its commitment to making the highest-quality, best-value products has allowed Sugar Creek to grow into one of the largest independent bacon processors servicing the global market.
Education: Master's Degree in Food Science, Meat Science, Microbiology, Animal Science, or a related scientific discipline required; PhD in same or related scientific discipline preferred; or equivalent experience.
Experience: 10+ years of experience in meat or protein manufacturing, R&D, or food science role required.
DESCRIPTION sUMMARY
Serve as the scientific authority for product and process development with a focus on driving formulation optimization through functional ingredient strategy to improve yield, product performance, shelf life, and commercialization efficiency. Apply meat science and microbiology expertise to enable data-driven decisions early in development, reducing rework and accelerating time to market. Work with other departments (FSQA, Operations, Procurement) to deliver cost, quality, and consistency improvements in alignment with food safety and regulatory compliance.
PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Provide guidance on product development initiatives from concept through commercialization for raw and ready-to-eat meat products.
  • Develop and optimize product formulations to meet sensory, nutritional, regulatory, and cost targets.
  • Evaluate ingredients, functional systems, and processing aids for performance, labeling, and cost effectiveness.
  • Support customer-driven product customization and innovation projects and participate in discussions with customers regarding product formulation, shelf life, and product optimization.
  • Support formulation strategy with accountability for yield, quality, and margin improvement.
  • Identify and implement cost-saving opportunities through ingredient optimization, formulation changes, and process efficiencies.
  • Work with Procurement and Operations to evaluate alternative ingredients and suppliers.
  • Provide guidance and support to the Regulatory Compliance Team for unique situations as needed as a processing authority.
  • Provide assistance on labeling requirements, standards of identity, product formulations, labels, processes, specifications, regulatory submissions, and responses to regulatory inquiries.
  • Design, oversee, and interpret microbiological challenge studies and validation activities.
  • Establish scientific support for lethality, stabilization, and antimicrobial interventions.
  • Provide support to Food Safety Quality Assurance (FSQA) in developing or evaluating pathogen control strategies and environmental monitoring programs.
  • Conduct shelf-life determination and extension studies for raw and RTE products.
  • Evaluate packaging systems, storage conditions, and distribution impacts on product quality and safety.
  • Interpret microbiological, chemical, and sensory data to establish defensible shelf-life claims.
  • Develop and optimize thermal processes, including cook cycle development and validation.
  • Provide scientific input on equipment selection, line modifications, and process design.
  • Analyze process data to drive continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Act as a technical liaison between departments during innovation and commercialization discussions.
  • Provide scientific guidance to Executive Leadership for strategic decisions and capital investments.
  • Mentor and develop technical staff within R&D or related functions.
  • Comply with federal, state, and company policies, procedures and regulations.
  • Support all safety, food quality and sanitation initiatives and policies.
  • Follow SugarCreek safety rules and procedures.
  • Perform other duties and tasks as assigned.

minimum qualifications
Education: Master's Degree in Food Science, Meat Science, Microbiology, Animal Science, or a related scientific discipline required; PhD in same or related scientific discipline preferred; or equivalent experience.
Experience: 10+ years of experience in meat or protein manufacturing, R&D, or food science role required.
Certification or Licensure Requirements: Safe Quality Foods (SQF) and Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) certification preferred; if not currently certified, SQF/HACCP certifications must be obtained within first three months of employment.
Abilities, KNOWLEDGE, and SKILLS REQUIRED
  • Possess strong familiarity and understanding of USDA FSIS-regulated environments.
  • Possess strong understanding of product formulation, thermal processing, and microbiological validation.
  • Possess strong proficiency in meat science, microbiology, and thermal processing.
  • Know how analyze formulation systems, functional ingredients, and processing aids.
  • Able to perform and analyze challenge studies, shelf-life testing, and statistical interpretation of results.
  • Possess strong understanding of USDA & FSIS regulations, labeling, and food safety requirements.
  • Able to communicate effectively and efficiently using both verbal and written skills.
  • Possess strong leadership skills, independent thinking, organizational skills, and planning abilities.
  • Know how to actively listen to employees across various departments to address issues.
  • Able to read, interpret and review instructions for preparation of materials.
  • Able to adapt and work on a flexible schedule that covers all plant operation shifts.
  • Able to read and comprehend printed and electronic information.
  • Able to maintain documents in an organized fashion.
  • Know how to use basic computer programs, especially Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

We are an equal opportunity employer.
We participate in E-verify. Participamos en E-verify.
Right to Work. Derecho al Trabajo.

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