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Food Scientist Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Minimum bachelor's degree in food science/related field or equivalent * 3+ years of relevant experience or the knowledge, skills, and abilities to succeed in the role * Experience managing research ...

Minimum bachelor's degree in food science/related field or equivalent * 3+ years of relevant experience or the knowledge, skills, and abilities to succeed in the role * Experience managing research ...

Minimum bachelor's degree in food science/related field or equivalent * 3+ years of relevant experience or the knowledge, skills, and abilities to succeed in the role * Experience managing research ...

Minimum bachelor's degree in food science/related field or equivalent * 3+ years of relevant experience or the knowledge, skills, and abilities to succeed in the role * Experience managing research ...

Minimum bachelor's degree in food science/related field or equivalent * 3+ years of relevant experience or the knowledge, skills, and abilities to succeed in the role * Experience managing research ...

Minimum bachelor's degree in food science/related field or equivalent * 3+ years of relevant experience or the knowledge, skills, and abilities to succeed in the role * Experience managing research ...

Minimum bachelor's degree in food science/related field or equivalent * 3+ years of relevant experience or the knowledge, skills, and abilities to succeed in the role * Experience managing research ...

Minimum bachelor's degree in food science/related field or equivalent * 3+ years of relevant experience or the knowledge, skills, and abilities to succeed in the role * Experience managing research ...

Minimum bachelor's degree in food science/related field or equivalent * 3+ years of relevant experience or the knowledge, skills, and abilities to succeed in the role * Experience managing research ...

Minimum bachelor's degree in food science/related field or equivalent * 3+ years of relevant experience or the knowledge, skills, and abilities to succeed in the role * Experience managing research ...

Minimum bachelor's degree in food science/related field or equivalent * 3+ years of relevant experience or the knowledge, skills, and abilities to succeed in the role * Experience managing research ...

Minimum bachelor's degree in food science/related field or equivalent * 3+ years of relevant experience or the knowledge, skills, and abilities to succeed in the role * Experience managing research ...

Minimum bachelor's degree in food science/related field or equivalent * 3+ years of relevant experience or the knowledge, skills, and abilities to succeed in the role * Experience managing research ...

Minimum bachelor's degree in food science/related field or equivalent * 3+ years of relevant experience or the knowledge, skills, and abilities to succeed in the role * Experience managing research ...

Minimum bachelor's degree in food science/related field or equivalent * 3+ years of relevant experience or the knowledge, skills, and abilities to succeed in the role * Experience managing research ...

Minimum bachelor's degree in food science/related field or equivalent * 3+ years of relevant experience or the knowledge, skills, and abilities to succeed in the role * Experience managing research ...

Minimum bachelor's degree in food science/related field or equivalent * 3+ years of relevant experience or the knowledge, skills, and abilities to succeed in the role * Experience managing research ...

Minimum bachelor's degree in food science/related field or equivalent * 3+ years of relevant experience or the knowledge, skills, and abilities to succeed in the role * Experience managing research ...

Minimum bachelor's degree in food science/related field or equivalent * 3+ years of relevant experience or the knowledge, skills, and abilities to succeed in the role * Experience managing research ...

Minimum bachelor's degree in food science/related field or equivalent * 3+ years of relevant experience or the knowledge, skills, and abilities to succeed in the role * Experience managing research ...

Showing results 21-40

Food Scientist information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$36K

$88.4K

$155.5K

How much do food scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for food scientist in Raleigh, NC is $88,416.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,100.00 and $97,200.00 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Food Scientist jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Food Scientist jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What job categories do people searching Food Scientist jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Food Scientist jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Food Scientist jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Food Scientist job openings:
Infographic showing various Food Scientist job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 88% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,416 per year, or $42.5 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Butterball rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

294th of 435 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Guides less complex product development and process improvement efforts in Renovation R&D by organizing, managing, and coordinating key projects from conception to commercialization.  Provides technical support to the operations, sales, and marketing teams. 

At Butterball, we exist to help people pass love on. As the most recognized name in turkey, the brand represents more than 60 years of cherished memories, providing quality, great tasting products that make meals something to celebrate every day.  We proudly believe that life at Butterball means having a team who supports you, having the opportunity to grow personally and professionally, and making an impact on the health of others daily.   

Whether you choose to work at one of our five (5) manufacturing facilities in NC, AR, MO, farms in AR, NC, and KS, corporate office in NC, IL, or in the field, we believe we have an opportunity for everyone to succeed.   At Butterball, we believe in fostering a culture where every team member is valued, has the opportunity to grow professionally and contribute to our success. Join us in our Purpose and apply for an opportunity today! 

Key Responsibilities 

  • Organizes and owns the R&D activities of assigned projects to ensure work is properly prioritized and completed in a timely manner to deliver results.  
  • Executes new products from conception to commercialization by working with sales, marketing, operation, purchasing and quality assurance. 
  • Maintains external and marketplace awareness related to new concepts, products, ingredients, and technologies. 
  • Engages team members to communicate and guide technical support for development of new products and technologies. 
  • Identifies and recommends new raw materials, ingredients, materials, and processes that improve products and reduce cost. 
  • Identifies, tests, and implements new processes and product formulas that lead to new products, cost savings and quality improvements. 
  • Provides technical support to operations to ensure product excellence and cost efficiency. 
  • Provides technical support to the Marketing and Sales teams to service existing customers and help gain new ones. 
  • Supports continuous improvement opportunities and solutions directed at improving profitability, product quality, food safety and capital avoidance. 
  • Seeks to enhance technical skills through project experience, seminars, professional conferences, and training programs.. 

Minimum Qualifications (Educations & Experience)  

  • Minimum bachelor’s degree in food science/related field or equivalent 
  • 3+ years of relevant experience or the knowledge, skills, and abilities to succeed in the role 
  • Experience managing research and development projects 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities 

Butterball Core Competencies 

Caring about people, valuing contributions, and empowering to succeed is the Butterball Way. We recognize the value that different perspectives and cultures bring to Butterball and seek to create an environment where everyone can thrive. Everyone has a seat at the table and is expected to embody our core competencies: 

  • Safety First: We put safety first. The health, safety, and well-being of our people, products, and turkeys is everyone's responsibility and everyone's jobs. 
  • Integrity: We trust each other to do the right thing. We act with integrity and gain the confidence and trust of others through honesty, respect, and authenticity. 
  • Stewardship: We take care of what matters. We are accountable to our commitments and take responsibility for the well-being of our teams, our quality, our customers, our business, our brand, and our communities. We are always answerable for our actions and those we lead. 
  • Enthusiastic Attitudes: We create a climate where everyone feels they belong and can be engaged, every day. Where our people are enthusiastic and motivated to do their best and work together to make great things happen. 
  • Continuous Improvement: We are committed to continuous improvement. We challenge ourselves and our company to constantly learn, develop, grow, improve, and innovate. 

Essential Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities  

  • Solid oral and written communication, analytical, time-management, and human relation skills 
  • Firm knowledge in food technology, ingredient technology, and food processing 
  • Demonstrated ability to use new technology to significantly improve profitability, product quality, food safety and manufacturing complexity issues 
  • Firm initiation skills with the ability to yield results 
  • Technical/functional depth and proficiency in MS office suite 
  • Experience with new product launches, problem-solving, and creative thinking 

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities 

  • Poultry science / poultry processing experience 

Physical Demands 

  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be regularly required to stand, sit, talk, hear, reach, stoop, kneel, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer, telephone, keyboard, and occasionally lift up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, depth perception, color vision and the ability to adjust focus. 

Working Conditions 

  • Work will be performed in a variety of conditions including remote work, a climate-controlled office environment(s), and in a manufacturing plant environment with varying conditions, such as cold areas, wet areas, warm areas, chemicals, and other site conditions. This position requires the individual to wear and work in personal protective equipment while in the manufacturing environment. For remote work, the employee must have a dedicated workspace to safely setup and use assigned IT equipment, preferably free from distractions. The employee is responsible for ensuring adequate internet service is available when working remotely (the recommended minimum speed is 20mb download and 5mb upload). 
  • The noise level of the office environment is usually moderate; the noise level in the manufacturing environment may exceed 85 DBA and require hearing protection. 
  • Required to travel up to 50% of the time. Requires at least 2 days per week in an manufacturing facility, potentially more pending project needs. 

Disclaimer 

We embrace equal opportunity employment. Butterball is committed to the fair and impartial treatment of all employees and applicants for employment without regard to gender, age, race, religion, color, national origin, physical or mental disability, military/veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, genetic information, marital status, parental status, pregnancy, or any other status protected by law.  

This position is deemed Safety Sensitive for purposes of Butterball’s Drug/Alcohol Screening & Testing Policy. Details will be provided to individuals who receive a conditional job offer, or upon request.  

The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees and are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of what is required of personnel so classified. Furthermore, they do not imply or establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the employer. 


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About Butterball

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Butterball, LLC, one of America's most iconic brands, helps consumers celebrate Thanksgiving and every day in between. Located in the thriving Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina area, our goal is to provide a diverse array of career opportunities and paths which include our farms, processing facilities and support offices. We are the largest producer of turkey products in the U.S., and we make a lot more than Thanksgiving turkeys. Our company's measurable growth is in no small part due to our team members in North Carolina, Arkansas, Illinois, and Missouri, who each have a seat at the table to contribute to our success

Industry

Food and beverage wholesalers

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Garner, NC, US

Year founded

1954

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