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Food Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Pictsweet Company

Food Scientist

Bells, TN · On-site

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 ...

Alphia

Food Scientist

Ogden, UT · On-site

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 ...

Newly Weds Foods

Food Scientist

Horn Lake, MS · On-site

$75/hr

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 ...

Alphia

Food Scientist

Ogden, UT · On-site

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 ...

The Pictsweet Company

Food Scientist

Bells, TN · On-site

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 Pictsweet Company

Food Scientist

Bells, TN · On-site

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 ...

Clemens Food Group

Food Scientist

Coldwater, MI · On-site

Degree in Meat Science, Food Science, Animal Science, or related field * Less than 3 years of relevant experience or internships * Strong ability to manage multiple priorities at once * Comfort ...

Clemens Food Group

Food Scientist

Coldwater, MI

... Science, Food Science, Animal Science, or related fieldLess than 3 years of relevant experience or internshipsStrong ability to manage multiple priorities at onceComfort working in a fast-paced ...

Cargill

Food Scientist

Wichita, KS

Job Purpose and Impact The Food Scientist supports the development, improvement, and commercialization of Ground Beef and Case Ready products within Cargill's Beef business. This role applies food ...

Cargill

Food Scientist

Wichita, KS · On-site

This role applies food science and processing expertise to deliver products that meet customer needs, manufacturing requirements, and quality and regulatory standards. Working ...

Cargill

Food Scientist

Wichita, KS · On-site

Job Purpose and Impact The Food Scientist supports the development, improvement, and commercialization of Ground Beef and Case Ready products within Cargill's Beef business. This role applies food ...

House of Raeford Farms

Food Scientist

Forest Park, GA · On-site

Food Scientist Direct Report: Director of QA & RD Facility: Filet of Chicken (Forest Park, GA) Compensation: Salary (Exempt) + Benefits Company Filet of Chicken (a division of House of Raeford) is a ...

Amylu Foods

Food Scientist

Chicago, IL

$75K - $85K/yr

Amylu Foods is hiring a Food Scientist to develop new products as we continue to grow! This role is located at our production facility on 44th St in the Stockyards section of Chicago. Who are we?

JRG Partners

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 ...

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Food Scientist information

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How much do food scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 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.

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.

What is the highest paying job in food science?

The highest paying roles in food science are often senior positions such as Food Science Directors or R&D Managers, who oversee product development and quality assurance. These roles typically require advanced degrees, leadership skills, and extensive industry experience, with salaries reaching six figures in some cases.

What jobs pay $2000 a day?

High-paying jobs that can reach $2000 a day often include specialized roles such as senior food scientists involved in research and development, especially in large corporations or consulting firms. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and expertise in areas like food chemistry, product development, or regulatory compliance. Such roles may also involve consulting or contract work, which can command higher daily rates.

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 job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A food scientist typically requires at least a bachelor's degree, but some related roles in the food industry, such as experienced food product developers or consultants, can earn around $10,000 per month with extensive experience and specialized skills. High-level positions in food manufacturing or quality assurance may also reach this income level without formal degrees if gained through significant industry expertise. However, most high-paying food industry roles generally require relevant education or certifications.

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 techniques. This role often requires knowledge of food chemistry, microbiology, and food safety standards.
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Food Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Scientist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full 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

Food Scientist

The Pictsweet Company

Bells, TN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

Pictsweet rating

4.4

Company rating: 4.4 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

370th of 381 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

The Pictsweet Company is recruiting for a Food Scientist to join our Innovation Center of Excellence at the company headquarters in Bells, TN.  Reporting to the Director of Innovation, the Food Scientist will play a crucial role in the development and commercialization of innovative and high-quality food products.  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 Pictsweet Company, and as such, the Food Scientist will be charged with not only maintaining knowledge of innovative industry trends but also embracing the rich culture and history of our distinctive brand.


  • Develop new items from concept through to commercialization; continuously monitor product throughout its lifecycle
  • Reformulate/evaluate existing items for continuous improvement and market relevance
  • Solve technical problems in product formulation, processing and packaging
  • Conduct sensory evaluations of products and translate testing outcomes into actionable next steps for product success
  • Develop and maintain accurate and organized product documentation throughout the product lifecycle; including but not limited to internal product specifications, FDA labeling requirements, supplier specifications, food cost and associated databases
  • Monitor industry trends to grow a portfolio of products ideas
  • Other related duties, as required

  • Bachelor’s degree in Food Science or related field from an accredited college/university
  • Certified Research Chef or Certified Culinary Scientist preferred
  • Product Development experience for Food Manufacturing required; 3 years minimum
  • Culinary experience in a restaurant kitchen or related experience; 2 years minimum
  • Strong knowledge of food product development, product commercialization, sensory science and testing methodologies
  • Batter/breading and or fried food manufacturing experience desirable
  • Strong grasp of food trends, techniques, innovations and menu development
  • Must possess an intense passion for food
  • Demonstrated project management skills with ability to self-motivate and work well under strict timelines
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills
  • Exceptional organizational and project management skills
  • Ability to taste and smell flavor profiles and food products
  • Must be able to work in a freezer environment
  • Required to stand/walk, bend, stoop, kneel and reach
  • Ability to lift/push/carry items up to 50 pounds
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office

The Pictsweet Company is an equal opportunity employer.  M/F/V/H

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