1

Temporary Food Research Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Food Process Engineer I

Emeryville, CA · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Research & development of food processes for novel food technologies * Plan and execute experiments to optimize product and process, utilizing statistical experiment design when needed. * Source ...

... Biology, Research & development, Formulation, Quality control, Troubleshooting, Food science ... If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical ...

Food Process Engineer I

Emeryville, CA · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Research & development of food processes for novel food technologies * Plan and execute experiments to optimize product and process, utilizing statistical experiment design when needed. * Source ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Temporary Food Research Development information

See salary details

$13

$26

$39

How much do temporary food research development jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for temporary food research development in the United States is $26.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $30.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Temporary Food Research Development vs Food Scientist?

AspectTemporary Food Research DevelopmentFood Scientist
CredentialsRelevant degrees in food science, food technology, or related fields; certifications may varyBachelor's or higher in food science, microbiology, or chemistry; certifications like CFSP are common
Work EnvironmentTemporary labs, research facilities, or client sites; project-based settingsResearch labs, manufacturing plants, or academic institutions; often permanent roles
Employer & Industry UsageFood companies, research firms, or contract labs; focused on short-term projectsFood manufacturing, R&D departments, academia; broader and ongoing research roles

Temporary Food Research Development professionals focus on short-term, project-based food research tasks, often within specific client projects. Food Scientists typically hold more permanent roles, conducting ongoing research, product development, and quality assurance in various food industry settings. Both roles require food science credentials but differ mainly in duration and scope of work.

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

To thrive in Temporary Food Research Development, you need a background in food science, chemistry, or a related field, along with experience in product formulation and testing. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, food safety regulations, and data analysis software like Microsoft Excel or specialized food research tools is typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the safe, innovative, and efficient development of new food products that meet quality standards and consumer needs.

What types of projects and collaborations can I expect in a Temporary Food Research Development role?

In a Temporary Food Research Development position, you'll typically work on short-term projects such as developing new recipes, testing ingredient substitutions, or supporting product launches. Collaboration is common with cross-functional teams, including quality assurance, marketing, and production, to ensure that new food products meet both regulatory and consumer expectations. You'll likely participate in sensory evaluations, documentation, and possibly scaling up formulations from bench to pilot plant. This fast-paced environment offers valuable exposure to different stages of product development and provides opportunities to learn from experienced food scientists.

What is a Temporary Food Research Development job?

A Temporary Food Research Development job involves working on short-term projects to create, test, and improve food products or processes. Employees in these roles often assist with recipe formulation, sensory evaluations, and experiment documentation under the supervision of food scientists. These positions are usually offered for a specific duration, such as to cover peak project periods or leaves of absence. They provide valuable hands-on experience in food science and research environments.

How to work in food R&D?

To work in food research and development, candidates typically need a background in food science, chemistry, or a related field, along with skills in product formulation, sensory evaluation, and laboratory techniques. Experience with food safety standards, regulatory compliance, and familiarity with R&D tools like statistical software can enhance job prospects. Entry-level roles often require internships or relevant coursework, while advanced positions may demand specialized knowledge and project management skills.
More about Temporary Food Research Development jobs
What cities are hiring for Temporary Food Research Development jobs? Cities with the most Temporary Food Research Development job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Food Research Development jobs? The most popular types of Food Research Development jobs are:
What states have the most Temporary Food Research Development jobs? States with the most job openings for Temporary Food Research Development jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Temporary Food Research Development jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Temporary Food Research Development jobs are:
Infographic showing various Temporary Food Research Development job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,192 per year, or $26.1 per hour.
Research & Development Associate

Research & Development Associate

Little Leaf Farms

Manchester, TN • On-site

Other

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Description

Little Leaf Farms is on a mission to transform the way food is grown. As an R&D Associate you will be a critical member of the team who will oversee and conduct projects and trials with the goals of portfolio diversification and process optimization. You will work not only with the R&D team, but also a global network of leading horticulture companies to drive innovation for the company and stay on the cutting edge of CEA technology. 

Roles and Responsibilities

  • Initial training period on growing and greenhouse procedures including but not limited to climate control strategy, fertilizer management, and biocontrol programs
  • Oversight of trials including experimental design, data collection, analysis, and reporting 
  • Help to create R&D Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) 
  • Stay up to date on current CEA literature with an understanding of how the information could be beneficial to the company
  • Collaboration with other departments 

Requirements

Required Education, Experience, and Skills

  • Basic plant science knowledge
  • Basic statistics
  • Microsoft Office - Proficient with Excel
  • Time management and ability to work independently
  • Strong attention to detail, ability to learn quickly, adaptability, problem solving mentality, high level of critical thinking
  • 1 year experience greenhouse work
  • Passion for CEA and future of the industry
  • Ability to work in a hot and humid greenhouse environment for multiple hours a day

Preferred Education, Experience, and Skills

  • Bachelor's Degree in Science (ex. Plant Science, Horticulture, Environmental Science, Bioengineering)
  • Basic knowledge of computer language and syntax (ex. R, python)
  • Research experience