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Food Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Kelly Science & Clinical ® is looking for a Food Scientist for a Direct Hire opportunity at leading organization in Aurora, CO . Let us help you grow at work and discover the next step in your ...

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 ...

Kelly Science & Clinical ® is looking for a Food Scientist for a Direct Hire opportunity at leading organization in Aurora, CO . Let us help you grow at work and discover the next step in your ...

The Research and Development Food Scientist is expected to serve as a technical services consultant, developing and supporting the commercialization of new products from the conception stage through ...

The Research and Development Food Scientist is expected to serve as a technical services consultant, developing and supporting the commercialization of new products from the conception stage through ...

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 ...

Food Scientist We are seeking a dynamic and forward-thinking food scientist who can bring their technical expertise to the table and play a vital role in developing and refining formulations for our ...

Food Scientist

Teutopolis, IL · On-site

$65K - $95K/yr

Food Scientist Compensation: Salary Range: $65,000-$95,000 We offer competitive pay and benefits - group health insurance, life insurance, Company paid Dental insurance, Optical Insurance, PTO, Paid ...

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 ...

Food Scientist

Appleton, WI · On-site

$69K - $93K/yr

Sc. in Food Science or related field Strong communication, interpersonal, organizational skills with an aptitude for creativity, innovation and ability to resolve challenges. Comfort with ambiguity ...

New

The Food Scientist provides senior food technology support to the Combat Feeding Division (CFD) at DEVCOM Soldier Center, working with the Armed Forces Recipe Service (AFRS). The Scientist develops ...

Food Scientist Position Type: Regular - Full-Time Grade: Grade 04 Requisition ID: 42750 In every role, McCainers are ambitious, curious, and passionate about creating exceptional work experiences ...

Food Scientist We are seeking a dynamic and forward-thinking food scientist who can bring their technical expertise to the table and play a vital role in developing and refining formulations for our ...

Food Scientist

Chandler, MN · On-site

$63K - $67K/yr

The Research and Development Food Scientist is expected to serve as a technical services consultant, developing and supporting the commercialization of new products from the conception stage through ...

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 ...

The Research and Development Food Scientist is expected to serve as a technical services consultant, developing and supporting the commercialization of new products from the conception stage through ...

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Food Scientist information

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How much do food scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 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:
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Infographic showing various Food Scientist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 2% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $90,961 per year, or $43.7 per hour.
Food Scientist

Food Scientist

Cargill

Wichita, KS • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 10 hours ago


Cargill rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 219 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 48 rated food wholesalers


Job description

Cargill is a family company committed to providing food and agricultural solutions to nourish the world in a safe, responsible, and sustainable way. We sit at the heart of the supply chain, partnering with producers and customers to source, make and deliver products that are vital for living. By providing customers with life's essentials, we enable businesses to grow, communities to prosper, and consumers to live well.
This position is in our Food Enterprise where we are committed to serving food manufacturers, food service customers, and retailers with a complete range of innovative ingredients and branded products. Our portfolio includes poultry, beef, egg, alternative protein, salt, oils, starches, sweeteners, cocoa and chocolate.
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 science and processing expertise to deliver products that meet customer needs, manufacturing requirements, and quality and regulatory standards.
Working with cross-functional partners, the Food Scientist II helps bring new products to market, improve existing products, and support manufacturing execution-contributing to product performance, operational efficiency, and business growth.
Key Accountabilities
  • Support new product development and product improvements for Ground Beef and Case Ready products, owning projects or defined workstreams from concept through commercialization.
  • Develop and evaluate formulations, processes, and product specifications to meet customer, quality, regulatory, and operational requirements.
  • Plan and execute product testing and trials; analyze results and make clear technical recommendations.
  • Partner with Sales, Business Management, Marketing, Operations, Food Safety & Quality, and Regulatory teams to translate business and customer needs into technical solutions.
  • Support plant trials, scale-up, and implementation by troubleshooting issues and applying process improvements.
  • Communicate project status, risks, and technical options effectively to cross-functional partners and leadership.
  • Stay current on relevant food science, processing, and ingredient knowledge and apply learning to business needs.
  • Seek feedback and guidance to strengthen technical skills, project execution, and cross-functional collaboration.

Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent experience
  • Experience working in a manufacturing environment
  • Minimum of two years of related work experience
  • Other minimum qualifications may apply

Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's degree or other post-secondary degree
  • Strategic thinker with ability to build effective plans to support strategic initiatives
  • Tech-savvy and comfortable with evolving business-critical technology
  • Experience working successfully in a matrixed organization
  • Experience progressing projects through a phased innovation approach.

Equal Opportunity Employer, including Disability/Vet

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About Cargill

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Cargill was founded in 1865 as a single grain warehouse in Iowa, U.S. Since then, we’ve grown to become a global partner connecting people around the planet. But one thing has remained constant over the years: our purpose of nourishing the world in a safe, responsible and sustainable way. Cargill is committed to conducting business with integrity, operating responsibly, enriching communities and nourishing the world. In the fiscal year 2021, Cargill provided $110.5 million in total charitable contributions in 56 countries to support our communities. Cargill businesses and employee-led groups partner with local civic, nonprofit and non-governmental organizations on programs and projects that improve food security and nutrition; support human rights, equity and inclusion; strengthen farmer livelihoods; and advance our commitments in the areas of land use, water and climate.

Industry

Food and drink manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Minneapolis, MN, US