ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Research And Development Food Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Actalent

Research Associate

Des Moines, IA

$23/hr

... food technology initiatives. Responsibilities * Conduct basic and applied research in microbiology, chemistry, and biochemistry as part of an R&D team. * Perform routine microbiology laboratory ...

Iowa State University

Research Scientist II

Ames, IA · On-site

... the development and optimization of fermentation processes supporting innovation in bio-based ... Advanced degree in Microbiology, Food Science, Biochemistry, or related field. * Experience ...

Kent Corporation

SR SCIENTIST

Muscatine, IA

$85K - $117K/yr

... food and beverage lines. This leadership role will drive R&D initiatives, develop and test new ingredients, and mentor a talented team--all with a focus on delivering high-quality, safe, and ...

Syngenta Group

Agronomic Research Scientist

Slater, IA · On-site

Join our mission of revolutionizing food security and transforming agriculture. At Syngenta, our ... A culture that celebrates belonging and collaboration, promotes professional development and ...

Kent Corporation

SR SCIENTIST

Muscatine, IA · On-site

$85K - $117K/yr

... Research & Development to lead cutting-edge product innovation in the pet category, while also collaborating across our human food and beverage lines. This leadership role will drive R&D initiatives ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsResearch And Development Food JobsResearch And Development Food Jobs in Iowa

Research And Development Food information

How does a Research and Development Food professional typically collaborate with other departments within a food company?

In a food company, Research and Development (R&D) Food professionals work closely with multiple departments such as Quality Assurance, Marketing, Production, and Procurement. They often collaborate with marketing teams to align new product formulations with market trends and customer preferences, and with production staff to ensure that prototypes can be efficiently scaled for mass manufacturing. This cross-functional teamwork is essential for successfully taking a product from concept to launch, making strong communication and project management skills highly valuable in this role.

What does a Research and Development (R&D) Food professional do?

A Research and Development (R&D) Food professional is responsible for creating and improving food products, recipes, and processes. They conduct experiments to develop new flavors, enhance nutritional value, and improve product safety and shelf life. Their work often involves collaborating with food scientists, technologists, and regulatory teams to ensure products meet industry standards and consumer preferences. R&D Food professionals play a key role in innovation within the food industry, helping companies stay competitive and compliant.

What is R&D in the food industry?

Research and Development (R&D) in the food industry involves creating and improving food products, recipes, and processes through scientific research and experimentation. Food R&D professionals often work with sensory analysis, food safety standards, and new ingredient technologies to develop innovative products that meet consumer demands and regulatory requirements.

What's the highest paying job in the food industry?

In the food industry, executive roles such as Food and Beverage Directors or Chief Food Officers tend to be the highest paying positions, often earning six-figure salaries. These roles require extensive experience, leadership skills, and knowledge of food safety, quality control, and management systems.

What is the job description of food research and development?

Food research and development professionals design, test, and improve food products, focusing on flavor, texture, safety, and shelf life. They analyze ingredients, develop prototypes, and collaborate with production teams, often using laboratory equipment and food science knowledge to meet consumer demands and regulatory standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Research and Development Food Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Research and Development Food Scientist, you generally need a degree in food science or a related field, strong analytical skills, and a solid understanding of food chemistry and product formulation. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation, sensory evaluation software, and food safety regulations such as HACCP is typically required. Creativity, problem-solving ability, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for innovating and refining food products. These competencies are vital for developing safe, high-quality foods that meet consumer demands and regulatory standards.

What is the difference between Research And Development Food and Quality Assurance Food?

AspectResearch And Development FoodQuality Assurance Food
Primary FocusDeveloping new food products and improving existing recipesEnsuring food products meet safety and quality standards
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, product development kitchensQuality control labs, production facilities
Required CredentialsFood science degree, culinary skills, R&D experienceFood safety certifications, quality management training
Industry UsageFood manufacturing, product innovationFood safety, compliance, and quality assurance

Research And Development Food professionals focus on creating and improving food products, while Quality Assurance Food specialists ensure these products meet safety and quality standards. Both roles are essential in the food industry but serve different purposes in the product lifecycle.

How to get into food R&D?

To pursue a career in food research and development, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in food science, chemistry, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions in food companies helps develop skills in product formulation, sensory evaluation, and food safety. Strong analytical, creativity, and knowledge of industry tools like laboratory equipment are essential for success in food R&D roles.
What are popular job titles related to Research And Development Food jobs in Iowa? For Research And Development Food jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Research And Development Food jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Research And Development Food jobs in Iowa are:
Research And Development Food jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research And Development Food job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.
Director, Global Research and Development - APC

Director, Global Research and Development - APC

Lauridsen Group, Inc.

Ankeny, IA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

The Director, Global Research & Development leads the execution of APC's global R&D strategy, driving innovation in products and processes that support business growth, operational efficiency, and customer value. This role is responsible for managing the global R&D project portfolio, strengthening technical capabilities, and partnering cross-functionally to deliver high-quality, scalable solutions. The Director also develops technical talent, advances scientific knowledge, and ensures R&D activities align with business objectives, quality standards, and regulatory requirements.
Key ACCOUNTABILITIES
R&D Strategy & Portfolio Execution
  • Execute the global R&D strategy in alignment with business priorities and growth objectives.
  • Translate strategic priorities into a clear R&D roadmap and project portfolio.
  • Prioritize and manage projects to ensure delivery against timelines, budgets, and expected outcomes.
  • Provide insight and recommendations to senior leadership regarding innovation opportunities, technical risks, and future research priorities.
  • Ensure R&D resources are aligned to support business needs and strategic initiatives.

Product & Process Innovation
  • Lead development of new products, applications, and technologies.
  • Drive continuous improvement of existing products and manufacturing processes.
  • Oversee experimental design, validation, and scale-up activities from laboratory through commercial implementation.
  • Collaborate with manufacturing teams to improve quality, efficiency, and product performance.
  • Ensure innovation efforts are scientifically sound, commercially viable, and aligned with customer requirements.

Technical Leadership & Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Serve as a key technical advisor to Production, Quality, Regulatory, Commercial, and Supply Chain teams.
  • Provide expertise in resolving complex technical, operational, and customer-related challenges.
  • Support customer interactions through technical presentations, demonstrations, training, and problem-solving activities.
  • Partner with global business leaders to align technical initiatives with operational priorities.
  • Promote knowledge sharing and collaboration across APC's global operations.

Compliance, Quality & Regulatory Leadership
  • Ensure compliance with applicable regulatory, quality, safety, and documentation requirements.
  • Maintain integrity, traceability, and proper retention of scientific data and technical records.
  • Support compliance with ISO and other applicable management systems.
  • Monitor relevant scientific, regulatory, and industry developments that may impact APC products or operations.
  • Partner with Quality and Regulatory teams to mitigate compliance risks and support continuous improvement.

Financial & Operational Management
  • Develop and manage the R&D budget.
  • Monitor project expenditures and resource allocation to maximize return on investment.
  • Identify opportunities to improve efficiency and optimize laboratory and R&D operations.
  • Lead pursuit of grants, research funding, strategic partnerships, and external collaborations.
  • Ensure appropriate laboratory infrastructure, equipment, systems, and resources are available to support business objectives.

Team Leadership & Development
  • Build, lead, and develop a high-performing global R&D team.
  • Establish clear expectations, accountability, and development plans for team members.
  • Coach and develop team members to strengthen technical expertise and leadership capability.
  • Support succession planning and talent development initiatives.
  • Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, continuous learning, and scientific excellence.

External Engagement & Thought Leadership
  • Represent APC in industry forums, conferences, and technical engagements.
  • Build relationships with external research partners, universities, and industry networks.
  • Monitor industry trends, emerging technologies, and competitive developments.
  • Promote APC's scientific capabilities and technical reputation within the marketplace.

SCOPE & IMPACT
  • Leads global research and development activities supporting APC's innovation and growth objectives.
  • Oversees the R&D project portfolio, laboratory capabilities, and technical talent across supported regions.
  • Influences product development, process improvement, customer solutions, and business performance.
  • Partners extensively with Production, Quality, Commercial, Regulatory, and Supply Chain teams.
  • Represents APC in external scientific, industry, and research collaborations.
  • Directly impacts product differentiation, operational efficiency, technical credibility, and long-term business growth.

QUALIFICATIONS
Education
  • Ph.D. preferred in Animal Science, Biology, Chemistry, Veterinary Science, Biochemistry, Food Science, Pharmacy, or a related scientific discipline preferred.
  • Master's degree in a related scientific discipline with significant industry leadership experience will also be considered.
  • Equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered.

Experience
  • 8+ years of progressive experience within research and development, technical services, product development, or related scientific disciplines.
  • 3+ years of leadership experience managing technical or scientific teams.
  • Experience in food, feed, agri-food, biotechnology, pharmaceutical, or related industries preferred.
  • Experience leading complex R&D programs from concept through commercialization.
  • Demonstrated success working cross-functionally with Production, Quality, Supply Chain, Customer Service, Regulatory, and Commercial teams.
  • Experience supporting global operations and collaborating across multiple geographies preferred.
  • Experience managing technical budgets, research portfolios, and resource planning strongly preferred.

Additional Qualifications
  • Working proficiency in English, including the ability to communicate effectively in meetings, presentations, technical discussions, and written reports. Proficiency in Spanish or Portuguese desirable.
  • Training or experience with quality management systems, including ISO 9001, HACCP, or comparable quality frameworks.
  • Experience in identifying and managing grants and funding programs for R&D and industrial investment projects.

KEY CAPABILITIES
  • Strategic Thinking: Aligns scientific and technical initiatives with business goals and future growth opportunities.
  • Scientific & Technical Expertise: Applies strong scientific knowledge to solve complex challenges and advance innovation.
  • Execution & Results Orientation: Drives projects to completion while balancing timelines, quality, cost, and business priorities.
  • Global Regulatory & Trade Awareness: Understands the regulatory, import/export, and international business considerations that influence product development, commercialization, customer requirements, and global operations.
  • Collaboration & Influence: Builds strong partnerships across functions, geographies, customers, and external stakeholders.
  • People Leadership: Develops engaged, capable teams and fosters a culture of accountability and continuous learning.
  • Financial Acumen: Manages budgets, resources, and investments responsibly to maximize business value.
  • Communication & Executive Presence: Communicates complex scientific and technical concepts effectively to a variety of audiences, including customers, business leaders, industry groups, and scientific organizations. Demonstrates strong presentation, facilitation, and public speaking skills in both internal and external settings.
  • Continuous Improvement: Identifies opportunities to improve products, processes, systems, and organizational effectiveness.

COGNITIVE & DECISION-MAKING REQUIREMENTS
This role requires the ability to evaluate complex scientific, technical, operational, and commercial information and make sound decisions that support business objectives and innovation outcomes.
The role includes:
  • Evaluating research data, experimental results, and technical findings to guide product and process development.
  • Balancing competing priorities across multiple projects, business needs, and resource constraints.
  • Assessing technical, regulatory, quality, and commercial risks associated with innovation initiatives.
  • Translating complex scientific concepts into practical business recommendations.
  • Leading teams through ambiguity, changing priorities, and evolving business requirements.
  • Exercising sound judgment on matters that can impact product performance, operational effectiveness, regulatory compliance, and customer satisfaction.
  • Identifying opportunities for innovation, continuous improvement, and long-term business growth.

Occupational Risk Prevention, Environment, and Energy Efficiency
  • Research activities related to new products, adaptation of existing products, and development of industrial processes.
  • Risk Assessment: R&D Laboratory Operator.
  • Display screen equipment.
  • Burn risk.
  • Glass cut risk.
  • Forklift operation.
  • Biological risk.
  • Noise.
  • Entrapment risk.
  • Basic knowledge of ISO 14001 and ISO 50001 acquired through annual company training.

Workplace: Laboratory and external activities (customer visits, trade fairs, conferences, etc.).
Note:
"This is not an exhaustive list of responsibilities and requirements associated with this position; it is intended to accurately represent the current role."

Apply