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Government Food Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

HomeTown Food Company

REGULATORY SPECIALIST

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

The Regulatory Specialist works closely with Food Scientists, Marketing, Procurement, Project ... years applying government labeling regulations within a Consumer Packaged Goods (CGP) company.

Jack Links

Food Innovation Technician

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

... Food Scientists, Engineers, and Packaging members in the shared kitchen, labs, and Innovation ... Adhere to Jack Link's & government mandated food safety and sanitation policies (ex. USDA, HACCP ...

HomeTown Food Company

REGULATORY SPECIALIST

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

The Regulatory Specialist works closely with Food Scientists, Marketing, Procurement, Project ... years applying government labeling regulations within a Consumer Packaged Goods (CGP) company.

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How much do government food science jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for government food science in the United States is $22.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $28.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying job in food science?

In food science, senior roles such as Food Science Directors or Food Safety Directors tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $120,000 annually. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and leadership skills in research, quality assurance, or regulatory compliance.

What is a Government Food Science job?

A Government Food Science job involves researching, regulating, and ensuring the safety, quality, and nutrition of food products at the federal, state, or local level. Professionals in this field may develop food policies, conduct inspections, enforce safety standards, and support public health initiatives. They work for agencies like the FDA, USDA, or local health departments to prevent foodborne illnesses and improve food systems. These roles require a background in food science, microbiology, or a related field, along with knowledge of government regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Government Food Science position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Government Food Science, you need a solid background in food science, microbiology, or a related field—often supported by at least a bachelor's degree. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, food safety testing methods, regulatory databases, and certifications such as HACCP or PCQI are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills will help you excel, especially when collaborating with multidisciplinary teams or presenting findings to stakeholders. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure public food safety, regulatory compliance, and the delivery of accurate scientific analysis in government settings.

What is the highest salary for a Food Scientist?

The highest salaries for Food Scientists can exceed $100,000 annually, especially for those with advanced degrees, extensive experience, or leadership roles in research and development. Salaries vary based on industry, location, and level of expertise, with senior positions and specialized skills commanding higher pay.

What jobs can I get with a degree in food science?

A degree in food science qualifies individuals for roles such as food scientist, quality assurance manager, product development specialist, food safety auditor, and regulatory affairs coordinator. These jobs often require knowledge of food processing, safety standards, and laboratory techniques, and may involve working in manufacturing, research labs, or regulatory agencies.

What types of projects or initiatives might a Government Food Scientist typically work on?

As a Government Food Scientist, you may be involved in a variety of projects such as monitoring food safety compliance among manufacturers, developing and validating testing methods, investigating foodborne illness outbreaks, or assisting in policy development for food regulation. You might also participate in research to improve food processing techniques or contribute to educational outreach about public health issues. Work often involves collaborating with other scientists, regulatory agencies, and sometimes industry partners. These projects offer opportunities to directly impact public health while building expertise in regulatory science and leadership. The dynamic range of initiatives ensures that your work remains both meaningful and intellectually engaging.

Which government job is best for food technology?

A government food scientist or food safety inspector is a top role for food technology professionals, involving testing, research, and regulation of food products. These positions often require a degree in food science or a related field, along with knowledge of safety standards and laboratory skills. They typically offer stable employment, benefits, and opportunities for advancement within agencies such as the USDA or FDA.
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What cities are hiring for Government Food Science jobs? Cities with the most Government Food Science job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Government Food Science jobs? The most popular types of Government Food Science jobs are:
What states have the most Government Food Science jobs? States with the most job openings for Government Food Science jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Government Food Science jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Government Food Science jobs are:
Government Food Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Government Food Science job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,976 per year, or $22.6 per hour.
Director, Food Quality Assurance

Director, Food Quality Assurance

Smart and Final

Commerce, CA • On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

Smart & Final rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 140 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

43rd of 118 rated grocery stores

Job description

Director, Food Quality Assurance
Store Support Center
We are searching for an experienced Director, Food Quality Assurance for our StoreSupport Center located at 600 Citadel Drive, Commerce, CA, 90040.
SUMMARY
TheDirector, Food Quality Assurance directs, facilitates and leads the QualityAssurance Team in the development and maintenance of an enterprise-wide qualityassurance system for corporate brand products by performing the followingduties personally and/or with other team members.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES ANDRESPONSIBILITIES includethe following. Other duties may be assigned or required:
  • Directs and coordinates the development of Quality Assurance Team goals and objectives in harmony with company-wide and corporate procurement goals and objectives.
  • Provides technical expertise and assists in store associate training, establishment of sales materials, procedures and guidelines as it relates to company-wide food safety HACCP-based programs and compliance to State and Local agencies and Health Departments, FDA, USDA and EPA regulations.
  • Provide technical expertise and assists in the establishment of food safety and HACCP programs in all operating companies.
  • Performs the duties of quality assurance liaison with government agencies. Coordinates action necessary with regards to proposed and new regulations and policies issued by State and local Health Departments, US FDA, USDA, EPA, and Department of Commerce as it relates to foodservice and retail food industry.
  • Ensures that Quality Assurance Department capabilities are in-step with technological advances in food science and other industry-related programs. This includes associate developmental training, Quality Assurance Manual maintenance and QA lab test equipment upgrade.
  • Provides technical expertise as a member of company Product Recall Task Force. Writes and updates Product Recall Standard Operating Procedure. Coordinates the issuing of company-wide Product Removals and Product Recalls.
  • Provides technical direction in new product development to ensure proper positioning of corporate brand products relative to pre-determined tiers and/or brand.
  • Ensures that applicable packaging and labeling meet US FDA, USDA, Department of Commerce, EPA, and State regulatory requirements. Responsible for EPA submittal and maintenance of corporate brand product registration in states where products are sold.
  • Directs action to be taken when customer complaints are received on both national brand and private label products. Provides technical expertise to Customer Relations Coordinator in response to customer requests. Coordinates with vendor on corrective action to be taken. Liaison for legal, risk management, operations, warehouse and buying.
  • Writes and implements quality assurance procedures for monitoring corporate brand standards in all warehouses. Provides direction in rejection of product that are not in compliance with established Smart & Final Product specifications and/or government standards.
  • Establishes product specifications for corporate brand products and ensures that they are updated relative to target brand trends.
  • Ensures that corporate brand products and vendors meet regulatory, food safety and Smart & Final requirements. Establishes guidelines and writes procedure for vendor manufacturing facility inspections and approves vendors as potential corporate brands suppliers.
  • Develops materials and participates in product information seminars and cuttings for sales associates.
  • Participates in Corporate Procurement Team activities.

SUPERVISORYRESPONSIBILITIES
Directs the Corporate Brands Team - Quality Assurance.Carries out leadership responsibilities in accordance with company policies andapplicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, and trainingassociates; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance;rewarding and disciplining associates; addressing complaints and resolvingproblems. Employs facilitation skills to ensure team success.
EDUCATION and/orEXPERIENCE
BA/BSin food science/chemistry/related field and a minimum of 8 to 10 years managerialexperience of a quality assurance function in a corporate brands setting orrelated field or equivalent combination education and experience.
OTHER SKILLS and ABILITIES:
Must have validdriver's license and ability to drive vehicle.
COMPENSATION: The salary range for this position is$140,000.00 to $160,000.00. The actual starting pay will be determined by anumber of qualifications; including, experience and relevant skills.
Our company provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) toall employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color,religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics.

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