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Food Science Jobs in Winfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

Meat Scientist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$64K - $95K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Meat Science, Animal Science, or a related field. * 3+ years of relevant food product development experience specifically with meat products. * Experience ...

Meat Scientist

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$64K - $95K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Meat Science, Animal Science, or a related field. * 3+ years of relevant food product development experience specifically with meat products. * Experience ...

R&D Scientist - US

Oak Brook, IL · On-site +1

$90K - $100K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Culinary Science or a related discipline, or equivalent relevant food-industry experience. * 4+ years of new product development experience, including taking ...

R&D Scientist - US

Oak Brook, IL · On-site +1

$90K - $100K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Culinary Science or a related discipline, or equivalent relevant food-industry experience. * 4+ years of new product development experience, including taking ...

Principal Scientist

Bartlett, IL · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Extensive experience in R&D and food science. * Proficiency in laboratory work, with 75% of workday dedicated to lab activities. * Experience working with enzymes in food. * Proven patent filing ...

Strong scientific knowledge of meat, non-meat ingredients and their functionality. Able to work ... Continuously improves and updates food/meat science and product development skills and understands ...

Strong scientific knowledge of meat, non-meat ingredients and their functionality. Able to work ... Continuously improves and updates food/meat science and product development skills and understands ...

About You: • Master's and/or PhD degree in Biotechnology, Food Science, Biology, or related fields; MBA preferred. • 8-12 years of experience in biotechnology, agri-tech, or food science ...

About You: • Master's and/or PhD degree in Biotechnology, Food Science, Biology, or related fields; MBA preferred. • 8-12 years of experience in biotechnology, agri-tech, or food science ...

Food Safety Specialist

Elmhurst, IL · On-site

$60K - $75K/yr

Preferred: · College Graduates encouraged to apply who have a background in Food Science/MicroBiology/Chemistry · Understanding of Food Safety/Microbiology Our Comprehensive Package of Benefits ...

Showing results 41-60

Food Science information

See Winfield, IL salary details

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How much do food science jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for food science in Winfield, IL is $22.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.96 and $27.69 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 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.

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.

Are food scientists in high demand?

Food scientists are in steady demand due to the need for food safety, product development, and quality assurance in the food industry. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as companies focus on innovation, nutrition, and regulatory compliance, often requiring skills in laboratory analysis and food technology.

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 such as HACCP. The degree provides practical skills and industry-specific knowledge valuable for employment in the food sector.

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.

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, and 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 offer opportunities for innovation, research, and advancement within the food industry.

What cities near Winfield, IL are hiring for Food Science jobs?

Cities near Winfield, IL with the most Food Science job openings:

Infographic showing various Food Science job openings in Winfield, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,887 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Meat Scientist

CONAGRA

Chicago, IL • On-site

$64K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Develop new meat snack products from concept through successful commercialization.

  • Conduct plant trials, support new product startups, and lead product testing activities.

  • Plan, prioritize, and complete projects while maintaining accurate and complete records.


Job description

Reporting to the Research and Development Director, you will utilize your meat science expertise to support innovation and margin expansion across our premium meat snacks brands Fatty and Duke’s. With a curiosity for consumer demand and food trends, you will work in our Innovation Tech Center in downtown Chicago to create innovations that are an asset to Conagra’s snacking portfolio.

A Taste of Your Responsibilities

  • Develop new meat snack products from concept through successful commercialization.

  • Conduct plant trials and support new product startups.

  • Plan, prioritize, and complete projects while maintaining accurate and complete records.

  • Work with pilot plant equipment under guidance.

  • Conceptualize and develop innovative product prototypes.

  • Utilize online specification systems to document and manage product information.

  • Design experiments and prepare results for technical review.

  • Understand consumer demand spaces and translate insights into new product concepts.

  • Lead product cuttings, plant trials, and product testing activities.

  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment, including cleaning equipment, utensils, and work surfaces.

  • Collaborate with cross-functional partners to ensure successful product development and commercialization.

Ingredients Required for Your Success

  • Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Meat Science, Animal Science, or a related field.

  • 3+ years of relevant food product development experience specifically with meat products.

  • Experience developing meat-based food products.

  • Knowledge of ingredient functionality and cost savings initiatives.

  • Curiosity for consumer trends, innovation, and the consumer packaged goods industry.

  • Knowledge of food product design, formulation, process design, scale-up, plant testing, and commercialization.

  • Strong organization, project management, and communication skills.

  • Experience working in laboratory, pilot plant, and manufacturing environments.

Physical Requirements

More information about essential tasks and the facility will be shared during the hiring process. This role may require you to be in our manufacturing facilities. When visiting these sites, the physical requirements below may apply:

You may be required to walk around the facility, climb stairs/ladders, kneel, or perform repetitive tasks that require hand-eye coordination.

You may be required to lift or carry materials that can vary in weight and size.

This is a manufacturing environment with large, moving equipment. Noise levels can be high, and temperatures may vary.

Number of Days in Office: 4

#LI-Hybrid
#LI-Associate
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    Compensation 

    Pay Range:$64,000-$95,000

    The annual salary listed above is the expected offering for this position. An employee’s actual annual salary will be based on but not limited to: location, relevant experience/level and skillset, while balancing internal Conagra employees’ equity. Conagra Brands will comply with applicable law regarding minimum salaries for exempt employees.

    Our Benefits

    We care about your total well-being and will support you with the following, subject to your location and role:

    • Health: Comprehensive healthcare plans, wellness incentive program, mental wellbeing support and fitness reimbursement

    • Wealth: Great pay, bonus incentive opportunity, matching 401(k) and stock purchase plan

    • Growth: Career development opportunities, employee resource groups, on-demand learning and tuition reimbursement

    • Balance: Paid-time off, parental leave, flexible work-schedules (subject to your location and role) and volunteer opportunities

    Our Company

    At Conagra Brands, we have a rich heritage of making great food. We aspire to have the most impactful, energized and inclusive culture in food. As a member of our 18,000+ person team across 40+ locations, you are empowered to reach your potential, make an impact and own your career. We're in the business of building champions – within our people and our iconic brands like Birds Eye®, Slim Jim® and Reddi-Wip®.

    Our focus on innovation extends beyond making great food, it also reflects our commitment to embracing new solutions that positively impact our team, the communities we serve and the health of our planet. Foodies Welcome.

    Conagra Brands is an equal opportunity employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, pregnancy, leave status, disability, veteran status, genetic information and/or any other characteristic or status protected by national, federal, state or local law. Reasonable accommodation may be made upon request.