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Food Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Food Scientist will work closely with cross-functional teams including Operations, Engineering, Marketing, FSQA and Sales. The Innovation Team is the creative center of what we do at The ...

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 either Food Scientist I, Food Scientist II. Level will be determined through the interview process. Primary focus will be red meat Cost ...

The Food Scientist will work closely with cross-functional teams including Operations, Engineering, Marketing, FSQA and Sales. The Innovation Team is the creative center of what we do at The ...

The Food Scientist will work closely with cross-functional teams including Operations, Engineering, Marketing, FSQA and Sales. The Innovation Team is the creative center of what we do at The ...

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 ...

The Food Scientist is responsible for managing research and development projects involving new product and process development, production trials, least-cost formulation, product/process improvement ...

Food Scientist

Louisville, CO · On-site

$30 - $36/hr

Job Title: Food Scientist Location: Louisville, CO Job Type: Contract Qualifications: * Must have Bachelor's degree in Food Science or related * 3+ Years of experience in relevant industry

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 ...

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 ...

The Food Scientist is responsible for managing research and development projects involving new product and process development, production trials, least-cost formulation, product/process improvement ...

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 ...

Food Scientist

Parsippany, NJ · On-site

$81K - $136K/yr

The role of the Food Scientist is to provide technical leadership and assistance to Marketing, Supply Chain, Quality Assurance, and R&D. This is a hands-on food science position, in which the ...

Present objective results to management A Food Scientist is well versed in all phases of the food product development cycle and can work independently to develop a new product from conception through ...

Food Scientist

Madera, CA · On-site

$90K - $105K/yr

The Food Scientist at Calbee America is responsible for leading product development initiatives across our branded portfolio - including Harvest Snaps (Extruded) and Asian-Style Chips (Potato Chips ...

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Food Scientist information

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$37K

$91K

$160K

How much do food scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for food scientist in the United States is $90,961.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,000.00 and $100,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do you earn as a Food Scientist?

Food Scientists typically earn a median annual salary of around $65,000 to $75,000, with experienced professionals earning over $100,000. Salaries vary based on education, experience, location, and industry sector, and may include benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

Are food scientists in demand?

Food scientists are in demand due to the growing focus on food safety, product development, and nutrition. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as the food industry advances and consumer preferences evolve, requiring expertise in research, quality control, and regulatory compliance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Food Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Food Scientist, you need a strong background in food chemistry, microbiology, and product development, usually supported by a degree in food science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, sensory analysis tools, and regulatory compliance systems like HACCP is essential. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills for excelling in this role. These skills ensure the development of safe, high-quality food products and compliance with industry standards.

What is the difference between Food Scientist vs Food Technologist?

AspectFood ScientistFood Technologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Food Science, Chemistry, or related fieldBachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, product development, quality controlManufacturing facilities, quality assurance, production lines
Employer & Industry UsageFood manufacturing, research institutions, government agenciesFood production companies, processing plants, quality assurance departments
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in food research and developmentExploring careers in food production and quality control

Food Scientists focus on research, product development, and improving food safety, often working in labs. Food Technologists typically work in manufacturing settings, applying scientific principles to produce and ensure the quality of food products. While their roles overlap, Food Scientists are more research-oriented, whereas Food Technologists are more involved in production processes.

How to Become a Food Scientist

A food scientist studies the taste, quality, processing, and production of food. You can become a food scientist by completing a bachelor’s degree in agricultural science, dietetics and nutrition, or food science. You can then pursue a master’s degree to improve your job outlook, secure higher-ranking positions within the food industry, or specialize in a specific area of food science. You can also work toward a doctorate in food science and technology to do research in the field.

What does a food scientist do?

A food scientist studies the physical, biological, and chemical makeup of food to develop safe, nutritious, and flavorful food products. They work on improving existing food items, creating new products, and ensuring quality and safety standards are met. Food scientists also research ways to process, preserve, package, and distribute food efficiently. Their work helps ensure the food supply is safe, sustainable, and appealing to consumers.

Is Food Scientist a hard job?

A Food Scientist's job involves research, development, and testing of food products, which can require strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of food safety regulations. The role can be demanding due to the need for precision, problem-solving, and sometimes long hours in laboratory or production environments.

What are some of the typical challenges a Food Scientist faces when developing new products?

Food Scientists often encounter challenges balancing consumer preferences, regulatory requirements, and production costs when developing new products. For instance, they must ensure that a product meets safety and labeling standards while also achieving the desired taste, texture, and shelf life. Additionally, working collaboratively with marketing, quality assurance, and production teams to bring a product from concept to launch can present logistical and communication hurdles. Staying current with emerging food trends and technologies is also crucial to remain competitive in the industry.

What can you do as a Food Scientist?

A Food Scientist researches and develops food products, ensuring safety, quality, and compliance with regulations. They analyze ingredients, develop new formulations, and improve processing methods using laboratory equipment and scientific principles. This role often requires knowledge of food chemistry, microbiology, and food safety standards.
What cities are hiring for Food Scientist jobs? Cities with the most Food Scientist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Food Scientist jobs? The most popular types of Food Scientist jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Food Scientist jobs? The top employers for Food Scientist jobs are:
What states have the most Food Scientist jobs? States with the most job openings for Food Scientist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Food Scientist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Food Scientist jobs are:
Infographic showing various Food Scientist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, and 28% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,961 per year, or $43.7 per hour.
Food Scientist

$75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Newly Weds Foods rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

56th of 433 rated food and drinks producers


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

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