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Food Scientist Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Sr Research Scientist

Indianapolis, IN · Hybrid

$94K - $120K/yr

At Elanco, we are driven by our vision of Food and Companionship Enriching Life and our purpose ... As a Senior Research Scientist in Analytical Development, you will be a key scientific leader on ...

Senior Research Scientist

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$94K - $120K/yr

At Elanco, we are driven by our vision of Food and Companionship Enriching Life and our purpose ... Your Role: Senior Research Scientist - Target Intelligence and Early Project Lead As a Senior ...

Showing results 41-60

Food Scientist information

See Indiana salary details

$35.2K

$86.6K

$152.3K

How much do food scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for food scientist in Indiana is $86,555.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,700.00 and $95,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 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 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.

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 companies seek expertise in quality control, research, and innovation within the food industry.

Do food scientists make a lot of money?

Food scientists typically earn a median annual salary that is above the national average, with salaries varying based on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, but experienced professionals with advanced degrees and specialized skills can earn higher wages, especially in research and development roles or management positions.

What are job opportunities in food science?

Food scientists can find job opportunities in food manufacturing, research and development, quality assurance, and regulatory agencies. They often work in laboratories, production facilities, or corporate settings, utilizing skills in chemistry, microbiology, and food safety standards. Certifications such as HACCP or SQF can enhance employment prospects.

What can you do as a food scientist?

A food scientist researches and develops food products, ensuring safety, quality, and nutritional value. They analyze ingredients, test for contaminants, and develop new food processes or formulations, often using laboratory equipment and scientific methods. Their work supports food manufacturing, quality control, and regulatory compliance.

What are the most commonly searched types of Food Scientist jobs in Indiana?

The most popular types of Food Scientist jobs in Indiana are:

What cities in Indiana are hiring for Food Scientist jobs?

Cities in Indiana with the most Food Scientist job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Food Scientist jobs in IN?

For Food Scientist jobs in IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Food Scientist job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 7% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,555 per year, or $41.6 per hour.

Sr Research Scientist

Elanco

Indianapolis, IN • Hybrid

$94K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Elanco rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

50th of 86 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

At Elanco (NYSE: ELAN) - it all starts with animals!

As a global leader in animal health, we are dedicated to innovation and delivering products and services to prevent and treat disease in farm animals and pets. At Elanco, we are driven by our vision of Food and Companionship Enriching Life and our purpose - all to Go Beyond for Animals, Customers, Society and Our People.

At Elanco, we pride ourselves on fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. We believe that diversity is the driving force behind innovation, creativity, and overall business success. Here, you'll be part of a company that values and champions new ways of thinking, work with dynamic individuals, and acquire new skills and experiences that will propel your career to new heights.

Making animals' lives better makes life better - join our team today!

Your Role:

As a Senior Research Scientist in Analytical Development, you will be a key scientific leader on our Technical Development (TD) team, directly contributing to Elanco's mission by advancing the analytical and dissolution control strategies for our small molecule portfolio. In this role, you will be responsible for supporting our drug development pipeline through a diverse range of analytical activities, ensuring our new animal health products meet global quality and regulatory standards.

Your Responsibilities:

  • Develop, validate, and deliver robust analytical and dissolution methods and specifications, while driving the evaluation and implementation of new technologies to advance our drug development process.

  • Interpret complex scientific data, draw relevant conclusions, and effectively report and present technical results to internal teams and at external scientific conferences.

  • Author and support the generation of international registration documents, partnering with manufacturing and regulatory colleagues to drive drug product commercialization and technical submissions to global health authorities.

  • Mentor and coach emerging technical talent within the analytical development function, fostering a culture of scientific excellence.

  • Ensure all activities are compliant with internal and external quality standards and guidelines, including GxP, SOPs, and HSE.

What You Need to Succeed (minimum qualifications):

  • Education: PhD in Analytical Chemistry, Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related field with a minimum of 5 years of experience in pharmaceutical development; M.S. in a related field with a minimum of 10 years of experience; or B.S. in a related field with a minimum of 15 years of experience.

  • Experience: Strong expertise in chromatographic (HPLC/UPLC), spectroscopic (UV/VIS), and dissolution method development (specifically with USP Apparatus II and IV).

  • Top 2 skills: Extensive knowledge of current quality and regulatory requirements for new drug products and a demonstrated track record of successful interactions with regulatory agencies (e.g., FDA/CVM, EMA) on analytical topics.

What will give you a competitive edge (preferred qualifications):

  • Significant experience in dissolution development and regulatory submissions.

  • Experience with mass spectrometry (MS) and other areas of analytical method development.

  • Proven scientific leadership skills combined with strong problem-solving and creative thinking abilities.

  • Demonstrated ability to collaborate and positively impact interdisciplinary and international teams.

  • Experience working in regulated environments (e.g., GMP).

Additional Information:

  • Travel: 10%

  • Location: Global Elanco Headquarters - Indianapolis, IN - Hybrid Work Environment

Don't meet every single requirement? Studies have shown underrecognized groups are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At Elanco we are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive work environment. If you think you might be a good fit for a role but don't necessarily meet every requirement, we encourage you to apply. You may be the right candidate for this role or other roles!

Elanco Benefits and Perks:

We offer a comprehensive benefits package focusing on financial, physical, and mental well-being while encouraging our employees to pursue our purpose! Some highlights include:

  • Multiple relocation packages

  • Two weeklong shutdowns (mid-summer and year-end) in the US (in addition to PTO)

  • 8-week parental leave

  • 9 Employee Resource Groups

  • Annual bonus offering

  • Flexible work arrangements

  • Up to 6% 401K matching

Elanco is an EEO/Affirmative Action Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status

Elanco may use automated tools, including AI, to support parts of our recruitment process, such as reviewing applications against jobrelated criteria and/or transferrable skills. These tools help ensure a consistent, structured evaluation, but they do not make hiring decisions. All decisions involve a human reviewer. For more information on how we handle personal data, please see our Elanco Workforce Privacy Notice.


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