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Food Systems Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Alkar

Food Technologist

Lodi, WI · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

This role offers a unique opportunity to work alongside a dynamic sales and engineering team, gaining hands-on experience in thermodynamics applications within food systems including both batch and ...

ALKAR-RAPIDPAK, INC.

Food Technologist

Lodi, WI

$70K - $80K/yr

This role offers a unique opportunity to work alongside a dynamic sales and engineering team, gaining hands-on experience in thermodynamics applications within food systems including both batch and ...

ALKAR-RAPIDPAK, INC.

Food Technologist

Lodi, WI · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

This role offers a unique opportunity to work alongside a dynamic sales and engineering team, gaining hands-on experience in thermodynamics applications within food systems including both batch and ...

Wisconsin

Food is Medicine Program Manager

Madison, WI · On-site

Knowledge of healthcare delivery systems, public health, community partnerships, implementation science, or Food is Medicine initiatives, or related fields. Key Job Responsibilities: * May exercise ...

Merieux NutriSciences

Microbiology Technician

Madison, WI · On-site

$19.50/hr

Microbiology Technician Madison Regular (US Only) MERIEUX NUTRISCIENCES As a trusted partner, our Public Health mission is to make food systems safer, healthier and more sustainable. Throughout our ...

Merieux NutriSciences

Microbiology Technician

Madison, WI · On-site

$19.50/hr

Microbiology Technician Madison Regular (US Only) MERIEUX NUTRISCIENCES As a trusted partner, our Public Health mission is to make food systems safer, healthier and more sustainable. Throughout our ...

Merieux NutriSciences

Microbiology Technician

Madison, WI · On-site

$19.50/hr

Microbiology Technician Madison Regular (US Only) MERIEUX NUTRISCIENCES As a trusted partner, our Public Health mission is to make food systems safer, healthier and more sustainable. Throughout our ...

State of Wisconsin

Systems Administrator

Madison, WI · On-site +1

$43 - $47/hr

As an agency, we strive to serve the people of Wisconsin assuring: safe, wholesome food; consumer ... DATCP currently has an opening for a Systems Administrator position within the Division of ...

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All JobsFood Systems JobsFood Systems Jobs in Madison, WI

Food Systems information

See Madison, WI salary details

$46.4K

$102.8K

$154.2K

How much do food systems jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for food systems in Madison, WI is $102,845.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,600.00 and $126,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are food systems?

Food systems refer to the entire network of processes and actors involved in producing, processing, distributing, consuming, and disposing of food. This includes everything from farming and food manufacturing to transportation, retail, and waste management. Food systems are shaped by social, economic, and environmental factors, and they play a crucial role in food security, nutrition, and sustainability. Understanding food systems helps address challenges like food waste, climate change, and access to healthy food.

What are some common interdisciplinary collaborations involved in a food systems role?

Food Systems professionals frequently collaborate with experts from agriculture, nutrition, environmental science, economics, and policy. This interdisciplinary teamwork is essential, as food systems are complex and span production, distribution, consumption, and sustainability. Professionals may work alongside farmers, supply chain managers, public health officials, and government agencies to develop solutions that address food security, waste reduction, and equitable access. Such collaboration not only enriches project outcomes but also enhances individual learning and career growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a food systems role, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Food Systems role, you need a solid understanding of agriculture, supply chain management, sustainability, and public health, often supported by a relevant degree in food science, environmental studies, or related fields. Familiarity with data analysis tools, food safety standards, and regulatory compliance systems is typically required. Strong collaboration, problem-solving, and communication skills help professionals navigate complex networks of producers, distributors, and policymakers. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe, sustainable, and efficient food systems that meet global needs.

What is the difference between Food Systems vs Food Safety Specialist?

AspectFood SystemsFood Safety Specialist
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Food Science, Agriculture, or related field; certifications varyCertifications like ServSafe, HACCP; degree in Food Science or Microbiology
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, farms, food production facilities, policy settingsFood manufacturing plants, inspection agencies, regulatory offices
Employer & Industry UsageAgencies, NGOs, food companies focusing on food systems and sustainabilityFood production companies, government agencies ensuring food safety compliance

Food Systems professionals focus on the entire food supply chain, sustainability, and food security, while Food Safety Specialists concentrate on ensuring food products meet safety standards and regulations. Both roles require related credentials and often work within the food industry, but their core responsibilities differ significantly.

What can I do with a food systems degree?

A food systems degree prepares individuals for roles in sustainable agriculture, food policy, supply chain management, and food security. Graduates can work as food analysts, program coordinators, policy advocates, or in research, often utilizing skills in project management, data analysis, and understanding of food systems. Certification in areas like food safety or environmental sustainability can enhance employment opportunities.

What are popular job titles related to Food Systems jobs in Madison, WI?

For Food Systems jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Food Systems jobs in Madison, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Food Systems jobs in Madison, WI are:

Food Systems jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Systems job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,845 per year, or $49.4 per hour.

Food Technologist

Alkar

Lodi, WI • On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
General Summary: This role offers a unique opportunity to work alongside a dynamic sales and engineering team, gaining hands-on experience in thermodynamics applications within food systems including both batch and continuous processing. You'll collaborate with leading food processors around the world, contributing to process and equipment development at Alkar and supporting innovation through technologies like our industrial-scale TurboChef oven. The position also involves overseeing the operations of our thermal processing lab and delivering technical training and support both on-site and at customer facilities. Up to 50% travel may be required.
Principal Accountabilities:
  • Directs and supports R&D projects focused on processing equipment development (cooking, smoking, cooling, pasteurizing), including the evaluation and practical application of research findings.
  • Designs and executes experiments related to batch, continuous, and microwave-assisted processing, including the study of thermodynamics in food systems.
  • Conducts lab and field trials for equipment proposals, performance evaluations, and process optimization.
  • Assists in prototype development and testing in collaboration with the Engineering team.
  • Provides technical support to customers both in-house and on-site, including developing support materials for Sales and Service teams.
  • Operates and maintains equipment in the Thermal Processing Technical Services lab.
  • Participate in customer seminars and technical training sessions.
  • Collaborates cross-functionally to apply R&D outcomes in real-world production environments, supporting improvements in food safety, quality, and efficiency.
  • Stays current with industry trends through conferences and trade shows; contributes technical papers to journals and industry meetings.
  • Must be able to travel up to 50% for customer support activities, including trials, testing, troubleshooting, and training in the United States, as required.
  • Performs additional duties as assigned by R&D Manager.

Requirements
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:
  • B.S. or M.S. in Meat Science, Food Science, Food Technology, Food or Chemical Engineering, or a related field, with interest in precooked and processed meats.
  • Solid foundation in thermodynamics and heat transfer principles.
  • Experience with lab and field-testing equipment.
  • Familiarity with food processing equipment and industrial food systems is a plus.
  • Confident communicator in team settings, capable of leading presentations and engaging group dialogue.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills (verbal, written, and interpersonal).
  • Knowledge of French, Italian, or other local languages is a plus.
  • Strong interest in food production processes, with practical problem-solving skills and hands-on intuition.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master's degree in food science, meat science, food technology, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, material science, or a related field with interest in precooked and processed meats.
  • HACCP certification.
  • Expertise in computational simulation and coding, with advanced knowledge in numerical analysis

Description of physical working environment:
  • Role is split between lab testing, desk work, and field travel.
  • Requires use of a laptop and periods of sitting.
  • Involves extended standing and walking in the thermal processing lab and at customer sites.
  • May require lifting up to 50 lbs.

Salary Description
70,000 - 80,000
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About ALKAR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Machinery manufacturing

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Lodi, WI, US

Year founded

1962

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