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Principal Food Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Schwans

Principal Food Scientist

Gahanna, OH · On-site

$107K - $178K/yr

We are seeking a Principal Food Scientist to join our R&D team at our Asian Food Facility in Gahanna, OH! In this role, you will be r esponsible for developing and supporting our processed meat ...

SCHWAN'S

Principal Food Scientist

Gahanna, OH

$107K - $178K/yr

We are seeking a Principal Food Scientist to join our R&D team at our Asian Food Facility in Gahanna, OH! In this role, you will be r esponsible for developing and supporting our processed meat ...

CONAGRA

Associate Food Scientist

Omaha, NE · On-site

$59K - $79K/yr

Reporting to the Senior Principal Development Scientist, you will be an essential contributor to ... Bachelor of Science in Food Science or a related field. * Internship, co-op, or professional ...

Conagra Brands, Inc.

Associate Food Scientist

Omaha, NE · On-site

$59K - $79K/yr

Reporting to the Senior Principal Development Scientist, you will be an essential contributor to ... Bachelor of Science in Food Science or a related field. * Internship, co-op, or professional ...

Conagra Brands

Associate Food Scientist

Omaha, NE

$59K - $79K/yr

Reporting to the Senior Principal Development Scientist, you will be an essential contributor to ... Bachelor of Science in Food Science or a related field. * Internship, co-op, or professional ...

Astrix Inc

Principal Scientist - Food Innovation

Elgin, IL · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Pay Rate Low: 120000 | Pay Rate High: 150000 Pay Rate Low: 100000 | Pay Rate High: 120000 Principal Scientist - Food Enzymes Location: Greater Chicago Area Direct Hire Up to $150K Our client is ...

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How much do principal food scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal food scientist in the United States is $144,009.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $117,500.00 and $169,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a principal food scientist?

A Principal Food Scientist is a senior-level expert responsible for leading research and development in food product innovation, safety, and quality. They develop new formulations, improve existing products, and ensure regulatory compliance. This role involves collaboration with cross-functional teams, including engineering, marketing, and quality assurance, to bring food products from concept to market. Principal Food Scientists also analyze industry trends, troubleshoot production issues, and mentor junior scientists. Their work ensures that food products meet consumer expectations while maintaining efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

What are the primary responsibilities of a principal food scientist?

Principal Food Scientists typically lead the design and execution of new food product development, oversee complex experiments, and ensure that products comply with safety and regulatory standards. They work closely with R&D teams, marketing, quality assurance, and manufacturing departments to bring innovative products to market. Additionally, they analyze data, evaluate prototypes through sensory testing, and provide technical guidance to junior scientists. Regular collaboration across departments and staying current with industry trends are key aspects of the role, making it both challenging and rewarding for those passionate about food innovation.

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

To thrive as a Principal Food Scientist, you need an advanced degree in food science or a related field, deep expertise in product development, and strong analytical skills. Familiarity with analytical instrumentation, sensory evaluation software, and regulatory compliance tools such as HACCP or FDA guidelines is typically required. Leadership, project management, and effective cross-functional communication are important soft skills for this role. These qualifications are essential to drive innovative product development, ensure food safety, and lead teams successfully in a dynamic industry.

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Principal Food Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Food Scientist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $144,009 per year, or $69.2 per hour.

Principal Food Scientist

Schwans

Gahanna, OH • On-site

$107K - $178K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

At CJ Schwan's, we don't just make food - we help create moments that matter. From kids devouring pizza after soccer practice, to students laughing over dumplings in a cafeteria, to families enjoying pie during the holidays, our team members play an important role in bringing those everyday moments to life. Our portfolio includes iconic pizzas, global flavors and timeless desserts from brands like Red Baron®, bibigo®, Tony's®, Big Daddy's®, Freschetta®, Pagoda®, Edwards® and Mrs. Smith's®. Enjoyed in homes, schools, restaurants and just about everywhere people shop and eat, our products reflect a commitment to quality, innovation and the power of food to bring people together.
We are seeking a Principal Food Scientist to join our R&D team at our Asian Food Facility in Gahanna, OH! In this role, you will be responsible for developing and supporting our processed meat portfolio, including frozen fried chicken & sauce, frozen patty and sausage.
Please note that we are not able to sponsor visas at this time.
What You Will Do:
• Apply food science expertise to develop, improve, and optimize products, ingredients, processes, packaging, and preservation methods while ensuring quality, safety, and regulatory compliance.
• Provide technical leadership and solutions for ingredient, formulation, processing, and production challenges to support efficient manufacturing operations.
• Develop and validate new product formulations, processing methods, and specifications to support innovation, renovation, and commercialization initiatives.
• Plan and execute pilot and plant trials, analyze results, and establish scalable processes and specifications for production.
• Lead cross-functional teams to successfully implement product launches and ingredient, formula, process, or specification changes.
• Evaluate ingredients, suppliers, and processing technologies to improve product performance, optimize costs, and drive continuous improvement.
• Create and maintain technical documentation, specifications, and project updates, ensuring clear communication of progress, risks, and outcomes.
• Generate and advance new product concepts through research, experimentation, and collaboration to support innovation and business growth.
What We Look For:
• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Food Science, Meat Science, Cereal Science, Dairy Science, Nutrition, Biological Sciences, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and product development experience.
• 8+ years of food product development experience, with expertise in food ingredients, chemistry, processing, and functionality.
• Strong knowledge of frozen food product development, including trend, regulatory, formulation, scale-up, manufacturing, bench-top testing, and plant trials.
• Proven ability to analyze data, solve complex technical problems, and implement practical solutions.
• Willingness and ability to taste and evaluate food products throughout the development process.
• Demonstrated curiosity, an innovation mindset, and a passion for solving complex technical challenges while collaborating effectively across functions.
• Experience with SAP PLM and Microsoft app is preferred.
What We Offer:
The base salary range for this position is $107,000 to $178,000 annually, with eligibility for a 15% annual incentive bonus based on organizational performance. The range reflects factors such as experience, skills, education, certifications, and location, and starting salary may fall anywhere within the stated range.
Beyond base salary, we offer a competitive Total Rewards package designed to support your overall well-being, including comprehensive health benefits, time off programs, and retirement and financial offerings
CJ Schwan's and its subsidiaries are Equal Opportunity Employers. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, gender, age, disability, veteran status, national origin, or any other protected characteristic. We provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities or sincerely held religious beliefs. For accommodation requests or assistance with the application, please email career.search@schwans.com.
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Schwan's Home Delivery logo

About Schwan's Home Delivery

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Since 1952, we have been delivering delicious meal solutions for you to share with family and friends -- any time of the day and for any occasion. Some may know us for our ice cream but millions more choose us for our superior quality foods such as wild-caught seafood, USDA choice meats, flavorful fruits and vegetables and of course, decadent desserts. All 100% satisfaction guaranteed. And all frozen fresh and delivered to your door.

Industry

Food and drink manufacturing

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Marshall, MN, US

Year founded

1952

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