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Food Tech Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Solina

Food Technologist

Bolingbrook, IL · On-site

We create dynamic relationships where our creativity can be visible through our customers culinary vision making "Food Matter." SUMMARY OF POSITION The Technologist will lead projects and document ...

Solina

Food Technologist

Bolingbrook, IL

We create dynamic relationships where our creativity can be visible through our customers culinary vision making "Food Matter." SUMMARY OF POSITION The Technologist will lead projects and document ...

Feastables

Senior Food Scientist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$105K - $130K/yr

Preference for Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, or a related field. * Strong knowledge of food product development, commercialization processes, and testing methodologies * Ability ...

Feastables

Senior Food Scientist

Chicago, IL

$105K - $130K/yr

Preference for Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, or a related field. * Strong knowledge of food product development, commercialization processes, and testing methodologies * Ability ...

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All JobsFood Tech JobsFood Tech Jobs in Chicago, IL

Food Tech information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$5

$20

$31

How much do food tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for food tech in Chicago, IL is $20.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a food tech?

Food Tech professionals are experts who apply technology, science, and engineering principles to the production, processing, preservation, packaging, and distribution of food. They work to improve food quality, safety, and sustainability by developing new food products, optimizing manufacturing processes, and ensuring compliance with health regulations. Their work helps bring innovative and healthier food options to consumers while minimizing waste and environmental impact.

What are some common challenges faced by food tech professionals when developing new food products?

Food Tech professionals often encounter challenges such as balancing taste, texture, and shelf life while adhering to food safety regulations and cost constraints. They must work collaboratively with cross-functional teams including R&D, quality assurance, and marketing to ensure new products meet both consumer expectations and regulatory requirements. Additionally, staying updated on emerging food trends and technologies is crucial to remain competitive in the industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a food technologist?

To thrive as a Food Technologist, you need a solid background in food science, chemistry, and microbiology, usually supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with laboratory analysis equipment, food safety standards, and quality control systems like HACCP is typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this field. These competencies ensure the safe development, production, and improvement of food products while maintaining regulatory compliance and high quality.

What is the difference between Food Tech vs Food Scientist?

AspectFood TechFood Scientist
Required CredentialsDegree in Food Technology, Food Engineering, or relatedDegree in Food Science, Chemistry, or related
Work EnvironmentProduct development labs, manufacturing facilities, R&D centersLaboratories, research institutions, quality control labs
Employer & Industry UsageFood manufacturing companies, startups, R&D firmsResearch institutions, food companies, government agencies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in food product development and innovationResearching scientific roles in food safety, quality, and research

Food Tech professionals focus on developing new food products, improving manufacturing processes, and applying technology to food production. Food Scientists primarily conduct research, analyze food safety, and study food properties. While both roles work within the food industry, Food Tech emphasizes product development and technological application, whereas Food Scientists focus on scientific research and analysis.

How do I become a food tech?

To become a food tech, you typically need a background in food science, technology, or a related field, often requiring a bachelor's degree. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions and developing skills in food safety, quality control, and food processing tools can also be beneficial. Certifications in food safety or quality management may enhance job prospects.

What can you do with food tech?

A Food Tech professional works on developing, improving, and managing food production processes, including food safety, quality control, and product innovation. They may use tools like automation, data analysis, and food science techniques to enhance food products and manufacturing efficiency.

What are popular job titles related to Food Tech jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Food Tech jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Food Tech jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Food Tech jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Food Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Tech job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,274 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

R&D Food Scientist (Bilingual)

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Chicago, IL

$26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Job Title: R&D Food Scientist (Bi-Lingual English & Spanish)
Location: Chicago, IL
Hire Type: Direct Hire
Shift: 1st Shift | Monday–Friday
Compensation: $26.00/hour
Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k), PTO
Language Requirement: Must be bilingual in English and Spanish
Must Have Experience: Research & Development within a food manufacturing environment
Job Summary:
Seeking a Bilingual Quality R&D Technician to support new product development, quality initiatives, and documentation management within a food manufacturing environment. This cross-functional role collaborates with Production, Quality, Operations, and suppliers to help launch new products while ensuring compliance with food safety and quality standards. Ideal candidates are organized, detail-oriented, and comfortable working in both lab and manufacturing settings.
Job Duties:
  • Assist in new product development projects, supporting items such as snack products, flatbreads, and customer-branded formulations from concept through commercialization
  • Perform bench-top, lab, and pilot plant trials, making formulation adjustments to achieve targeted taste, texture, nutrition, shelf life, and cost objectives
  • Maintain and update technical documentation, including formulations, testing data, SOPs, product specifications, and change documentation
  • Partner with Production, Quality Assurance, Packaging, and Operations teams to ensure successful product scale-up and manufacturability
  • Support food safety, regulatory, and labeling compliance in accordance with company standards and customer requirements
  • Conduct sensory testing, shelf-life analysis, and competitive product evaluations to support product improvements and development initiatives
  • Communicate with ingredient and packaging suppliers regarding specifications, quality concerns, and corrective actions when needed
  • Assist with supplier quality investigations, documentation reviews, and follow-up communication
  • Provide bilingual communication support with vendors and suppliers in both English and Spanish
  • Contribute to supplier qualification efforts, ingredient sourcing, and continuous improvement projects
Qualifications:
  • 1–3 years of experience in food product development, R&D, or a similar role within a food manufacturing environment
  • Bachelor’s degree preferred in Food Science, Food Technology, Chemistry, Nutrition, or a related discipline
  • Bilingual in English and Spanish (written and verbal)
  • Strong documentation, organization, and attention-to-detail skills
  • Ability to communicate professionally with cross-functional teams and external suppliers
  • Comfortable working in a hands-on, fast-paced manufacturing and R&D environment
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.