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Food Sciences Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Pilot Plant Supervisor / Senior R&D Manager About the Role We're looking for a Food Scientist to support pilot plant operations and industrial implementation of new products. In this role, you'll ...

Applying to this requisition will put you into considering for either Food Scientist I, Food Scientist II. Level will be determined through the interview process. Primary focus will be red meat Cost ...

Pilot Plant Supervisor / Senior R&D Manager About the Role We're looking for a Food Scientist to support pilot plant operations and industrial implementation of new products. In this role, you'll ...

Applying to this requisition will put you into considering for either Food Scientist I, Food Scientist II. Level will be determined through the interview process. Primary focus will be red meat Cost ...

Applying to this requisition will put you into considering for Food Scientist I, Food Scientist II, Senior Foods Scientist I, or Senior Food Scientist II - Level will be determined through the ...

Applying to this requisition will put you into considering for Food Scientist I, Food Scientist II, Senior Foods Scientist I, or Senior Food Scientist II - Level will be determined through the ...

Food Scientist

Alsip, IL · Hybrid

$72K - $100K/yr

... Sciences, or other related field * Minimum of 3 years' experience in Research & Development or 5 years' Quality Systems experience within the food industry * Must be able to consume and taste meat ...

Pilot Plant Supervisor / Senior R&D Manager About the Role We're looking for a Food Scientist to support pilot plant operations and industrial implementation of new products. In this role, you'll ...

Pilot Plant Supervisor / Senior R&D Manager About the Role We're looking for a Food Scientist to support pilot plant operations and industrial implementation of new products. In this role, you'll ...

Pilot Plant Supervisor / Senior R&D Manager About the Role We're looking for a Food Scientist to support pilot plant operations and industrial implementation of new products. In this role, you'll ...

Pilot Plant Supervisor / Senior R&D Manager About the Role We're looking for a Food Scientist to support pilot plant operations and industrial implementation of new products. In this role, you'll ...

Food Scientist

Carnegie, PA · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Food Scientist Position Summary Vantage Specialty Chemicals is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Food Scientist to support product design, process development, and application testing within ...

Food Scientist

Omaha, NE · On-site

$80K/yr

As a Food Scientist, reporting to the R&D Manager, you are an essential contributor to product development for our plant-based proteins products. You will bring a food forward focused mindset to ...

Showing results 21-40

Food Sciences information

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How much do food sciences jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for food sciences in the United States is $14.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.54 and $15.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a food scientist?

Food scientists are professionals who study the physical, biological, and chemical makeup of food and use this knowledge to develop safe, nutritious, and sustainable food products. They work to improve food quality, safety, and processing methods, often collaborating with other scientists and engineers. Food scientists are employed in industries such as food production, research and development, regulatory agencies, and academia, and play a key role in ensuring that the food we eat is safe, appealing, and meets regulatory standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a food scientist?

To thrive as a Food Scientist, you need a solid background in chemistry, microbiology, and food engineering, typically supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in food science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory analysis tools, food safety certifications (such as HACCP), and statistical software is commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork skills help individuals excel in this role. These competencies ensure the development of safe, high-quality food products and compliance with industry regulations.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in food sciences when developing new food products?

Professionals in food sciences often encounter challenges such as formulating products that meet consumer preferences while adhering to strict safety and regulatory standards. Balancing taste, texture, shelf life, and nutritional content can be complex, especially when working with novel ingredients or dietary restrictions. Additionally, collaboration with cross-functional teams, like marketing and quality assurance, is essential to ensure the product is both marketable and compliant. Adapting to rapidly changing consumer trends and technological advancements also requires continuous learning and flexibility.

What is the difference between Food Sciences vs Food Technologists?

AspectFood SciencesFood Technologists
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Food Science or related fieldBachelor's in Food Technology or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, quality control, product developmentManufacturing facilities, quality assurance, production lines
Industry UsageResearch institutions, food companies, academiaFood manufacturing companies, processing plants
Common Search/ComparisonFood Sciences vs Food Technologists

Food Sciences and Food Technologists both focus on food quality, safety, and product development. Food Sciences generally involves research, innovation, and scientific analysis, often in labs or academic settings. Food Technologists tend to work directly in manufacturing environments, applying technical skills to produce and improve food products. While their roles overlap, Food Sciences emphasizes research and theory, whereas Food Technologists focus on practical application in production.

Do food scientists make a lot of money?

Food scientists typically earn a median annual salary around $70,000, with salaries varying based on experience, education, and location. Advanced roles or those in research and development can offer higher compensation, especially with specialized skills or certifications. Overall, the salary is competitive within the science and technology fields.

What jobs can I get with food sciences?

A degree in food sciences can lead to careers such as food scientist, quality assurance manager, product development specialist, food safety auditor, and regulatory affairs analyst. These roles often require knowledge of food chemistry, microbiology, and food processing techniques, and may involve working in laboratories, manufacturing plants, or research settings.

Which job is best in food sciences?

The best job in food sciences 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 research labs, manufacturing facilities, or quality control environments.
More about Food Sciences jobs

What cities are hiring for Food Sciences jobs?

Cities with the most Food Sciences job openings:

What states have the most Food Sciences jobs?

States with the most job openings for Food Sciences jobs include:

Infographic showing various Food Sciences job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,393 per year, or $14.1 per hour.

$75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Food Scientist

Summary
The Food Scientist is responsible for leading product development projects and managing key customer accounts. This role requires strong project management skills, technical expertise, and the ability to drive innovation while supporting team development.

We are open to candidates at various experience levels, from early-career food scientists to more experienced professionals.

Essential Functions

  • Manage and lead product development projects from concept through commercialization
  • Build a strong understanding of customer products and processes
  • Support and mentor junior scientists and interns, as applicable
  • Drive innovation and continuous improvement in products and processes
  • Adapt quickly to changing priorities and business needs
  • Identify root causes of issues and implement effective solutions
  • Conduct analysis and troubleshoot technical challenges
  • Stay current with industry trends, technologies, and ingredient advancements
  • Demonstrate strong knowledge of ingredients and their functionality
  • Plan and execute technical aspects of projects to ensure successful outcomes
  • Delegate tasks appropriately to support project execution
  • Perform other duties and special projects as needed

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Culinary Science, Biology, Chemistry, or a related field
  • Minimum of 5–8 years of relevant experience (level will be based on experience)
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office; experience with AS400 and Lotus Notes is a plus

Work Environment

  • Primarily an office setting with periodic exposure to manufacturing environments
  • May include exposure to:
    • Loud environments
    • Airborne particles and strong food-related odors
    • Hot, cold, wet, or humid conditions
    • Standing or walking on concrete surfaces
    • Climbing stairs or ladders and working on elevated surfaces

Compensation: This role is targeted at a Scientist level, requiring a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience, with a salary range of $75–90K. 

Benefits:

  • Medical Insurance
  • Prescription Drug Plan
  • Dental/Vision Insurance
  • Employee Incentive Plan
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Cash Accumulation Plan-401K
  • Life/AD&D Insurance
  • Short- Term/Long-Term Disability
  • Vacation Plan
  • Paid Holidays
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Adoption Assistance Program
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Maternity/Paternity Leave
  • Pet Insurance