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R&D Food Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The R&D scientist will have the opportunity to use knowledge and experience to conduct research in pet wet food. As a part of the R&D team, the R&D scientist will develop strategies to improve ...

Director of R & D

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$210K - $240K/yr

Our client, a leading Food Technology Company is seeking a R & D Director. This is a fast growing ... Bachelor's degree in food engineering, food science or a similar discipline; Master's degree or MBA ...

Associates in chemistry, cosmetic Science, biology, or a related field. * Familiarity with formulation equipment (e.g., mixers, homogenizers, viscometers, pH meter). * Strong attention to detail ...

Associates in chemistry, cosmetic Science, biology, or a related field. * Familiarity with formulation equipment (e.g., mixers, homogenizers, viscometers, pH meter). * Strong attention to detail ...

Associates in chemistry, cosmetic Science, biology, or a related field. * Familiarity with formulation equipment (e.g., mixers, homogenizers, viscometers, pH meter). * Strong attention to detail ...

Associates in chemistry, cosmetic Science, biology, or a related field. * Familiarity with formulation equipment (e.g., mixers, homogenizers, viscometers, pH meter). * Strong attention to detail ...

Provides leadership to the organization in the areas of food science and R&D. * Designs new products based on targeted flavor profile, texture, color, shelf life and nutritional content while ...

R & D Scientist

Carteret, NJ · On-site

$100K - $110K/yr

The R&D Scientist reports to the Sr. Director of QA and works closely with Quality Control and other cross-functional teams. This position is responsible for conducting analytical testing, supporting ...

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R D Food Science information

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How much do r&d food science jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for r&d 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 R&D Food Science?

R&D Food Science, or Research and Development in Food Science, involves developing new food products, improving existing ones, and ensuring food safety and quality. Professionals in this field apply scientific principles to create innovative recipes, enhance nutritional value, and solve production challenges. They often work in laboratories and collaborate with other departments to bring products from concept to market. Their work is crucial for meeting consumer demands and complying with food regulations.

What are some common challenges faced by R&D Food Scientists when developing new products?

R&D Food Scientists often face the challenge of balancing innovation with regulatory compliance, cost constraints, and consumer preferences. Creating new formulations that meet taste, texture, shelf-life, and nutritional requirements can be complex, especially when using novel ingredients or processes. Additionally, collaborating with cross-functional teams such as marketing, production, and quality assurance is essential to ensure that the product is feasible for large-scale manufacturing and aligns with brand goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an R&D Food Scientist, and why are they important?

To excel as an R&D Food Scientist, you need a solid background in food science, chemistry, and product development, often supported by a degree in food science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, sensory analysis tools, and regulatory software is typically required, along with certifications like HACCP or SQF being advantageous. Creativity, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for innovating and collaborating on new food products. These abilities are essential for creating safe, appealing, and market-ready products that meet both regulatory standards and consumer demands.

What is the difference between R&D Food Science vs Food Technologist?

AspectR&D Food ScienceFood Technologist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Food Science or related fieldBachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, product development teamsManufacturing facilities, quality control labs
Industry UsageResearch and development, innovationProduction, quality assurance, process optimization
Common Search IntentResearch roles, product innovationProduction, quality control, process improvement

R&D Food Science professionals focus on developing new products and improving existing ones through research and experimentation. Food Technologists typically work in manufacturing settings, ensuring products meet quality standards and optimizing production processes. While both roles require a background in food science, R&D Food Science emphasizes innovation and research, whereas Food Technologists concentrate on production and quality assurance.

How much does an R&D food scientist make?

An R&D food scientist's salary typically ranges from $55,000 to $95,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with advanced degrees or specialized skills can earn higher salaries, often supplemented with benefits and opportunities for advancement.

How to become a research and development food scientist?

To become an R&D food scientist, typically a bachelor's degree in food science, chemistry, or a related field is required, often followed by experience in food product development or quality assurance. Skills in laboratory techniques, food safety, and product formulation are essential, and advanced roles may require a master's or doctoral degree. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions helps build practical knowledge in food innovation and research.

Is R&D Food Science stressful as a career?

R&D Food Science can be stressful due to tight project deadlines, the need for precision, and the pressure to develop innovative products. Professionals in this field often work in fast-paced environments and must balance multiple tasks, but effective time management and technical skills can help manage stress levels.

What do R&D food scientists do?

R&D food scientists develop and improve food products through research, formulation, and testing. They analyze ingredients, create prototypes, and ensure products meet safety and quality standards, often using laboratory equipment and scientific methods. Their work supports innovation in food companies and may require knowledge of food chemistry, microbiology, and food regulations.
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What cities are hiring for R&D Food Science jobs?

Cities with the most R&D Food Science job openings:

What states have the most R&D Food Science jobs?

States with the most job openings for R&D Food Science jobs include:

Infographic showing various R&D Food Science job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, and 30% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,976 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Food Science Technologist/R&D-ProteinIf you are interested in joining and contributing to a privately held 70-year organization on our Product Development Team I would like to speak with you. We are positioned and planning for double digit growth for the next 5 years. The stability and growth of our organization has proven to be a two-way street we are successful because of our associates and in turn, our associates have contributed to a culture that is family orientated, collaborate and focuses on accountability and teamwork. Our organization develops products thru three different platforms that all contain protein. We provide solutions to our customers/consumers thru providing our capabilities and continuing looking to enhance them . This is where you would come in. Our associates are not afraid to speak up! Our long-term success is attributed to our talented employees that have kept us relevant in the marketplace by providing innovative products and packaging that has kept us front and center of the consumers and our customers. This entrepreneurial company values its associates and our ability to provide customer service that sets us apart in the marketplace. This opportunity is located in south central Minnesota. This growing organization is providing an opportunity to grow your skills with them and to be part of our R&D. Can do, will do, team win positive attitude is critical!Job DescriptionResponsible for delivering new products for our customers. Hands-on environment across a broad spectrum of activities, concept development, product formulation, process development, scale-up and plant start-ups. This individual will play a key role in the development and execution of Customer R & D initiativesPRIMARY ACOUNTABILITIES: Plan, organize and lead projects to meet company and customer standardsProvide both internal and external customers with technical support as needed.Direct and conduct research studies on products, procedures and manufacturing processes.Ability to use leadership skills to mentor and influence employees and results.Work closely with sales team and assist in client presentations as needed.Develop and communicate capabilities of the organization; Ability to translate customer?s needs into new productsAdvanced working knowledge of an R& D organization, including product development flow and project management from conception to product launch.Technical knowledge in the manufacturing of various RTE and Commercially Sterile products.Stay abreast of technologies and business conditions thru continued education.Speak Up .Education, Experience, Skills:Bachelor?s Degree with a food science degree (Food science, Biology, Chemistry etc.) desired along with at least 2 years of experience in product development.Will consider an individual with intern experience in proteinThe best candidates will have experience with Canning OR/AND Protein. Experience in canning with Protein knowledge is acceptable and vice versa.A success story or two on product developmentEstablishes an efficient base of external vendors for ingredients, packaging, equipment and technical supportStrategic thinker with the ability to act tactically.Develops new products and line extensions from bench top to commercializationMust possess excellent communication, organization and leadership skills. Must have excellent interpersonal skills to be able to collaborate with people at all levels in a matrix organization. Must be self-motivated and have well-developed problem-solving skills. Must demonstrate analytic and project management skills, and have experience using Outlook and Microsoft Office suite.This position enjoys excellent wages and a comprehensive benefits package. tmrachek grnmedinamn.com or call Tom at 952 681 2483.