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Research And Development Food Science Jobs in Chicago, IL

Bell Flavors & Fragrances

Research Chef

Northbrook, IL

$50K - $100K/yr

The ideal candidate is passionate about food, skilled in culinary execution, and excited to apply food science principles in a product development environment. Your Key Responsibilities: * Research ...

Bell Flavors & Fragrances

Research Chef

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$50K - $100K/yr

The ideal candidate is passionate about food, skilled in culinary execution, and excited to apply food science principles in a product development environment. Your Key Responsibilities: * Research ...

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All JobsResearch And Development Food Science JobsResearch And Development Food Science Jobs in Chicago, IL

Research And Development Food Science information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$50K

$104.9K

$170K

How much do research and development food science jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for research and development food science in Chicago, IL is $104,862.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,800.00 and $120,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Research And Development Food Science vs Food Technologist?

AspectResearch And Development Food ScienceFood Technologist
CredentialsBachelor's or master's in food science, chemistry, or related fieldsBachelor's degree in food science, food technology, or related fields
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, R&D centers, product development teamsManufacturing facilities, quality control labs, production lines
Industry UsageDeveloping new food products, improving formulations, innovationImplementing production processes, ensuring product quality, compliance

Research And Development Food Science focuses on creating and improving food products through research and experimentation, often working in labs and innovation teams. Food Technologists typically oversee the production process, ensuring products meet quality standards and regulations. Both roles require food science knowledge but differ in their primary focus and work environment.

How much does a research and development food scientist make?

Research and development food scientists typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $90,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals or those with specialized skills can earn over $100,000 annually.

What does a research and development food scientist do?

A research and development food scientist develops and improves food products by conducting experiments, analyzing ingredients, and testing formulations. They use scientific methods, laboratory equipment, and food safety standards to create innovative products that meet consumer preferences and regulatory requirements.

What does research and development in the food industry do?

Research and development in the food industry involves creating and improving food products, developing new formulations, and ensuring product safety and quality. Food scientists use laboratory techniques, sensory testing, and food processing methods to innovate and meet consumer demands while complying with regulations.

What type of jobs can you get with a research and development food science degree?

A degree in research and development food science can lead to roles such as food scientist, product developer, quality assurance manager, sensory analyst, and food technologist. These positions involve developing new food products, improving existing formulations, ensuring safety and compliance, and working with laboratory equipment and food processing environments.

What are popular job titles related to Research And Development Food Science jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Research And Development Food Science jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Research And Development Food Science jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Research And Development Food Science jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Research And Development Food Science jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Research And Development Food Science job openings:

Research And Development Food Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research And Development Food Science job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,862 per year, or $50.4 per hour.

R&D Food Scientist (Bilingual)

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Chicago, IL

$26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 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.