Food Scientist

Join Actalent as a Food Scientist in Elmwood Park, Cook County, where you'll drive innovation in food and beverage product development from concept through commercialization. This is a full-time position for an accomplished scientist ready to shape the future of food products.

About the Role

As a Food Scientist, you'll take ownership of product development initiatives that transform ideas into market-ready food and beverage solutions. You'll work across formulation design, prototype development, regulatory compliance, and scale-up activities—partnering with cross-functional teams to deliver products that meet rigorous quality and business standards.

What You'll Do

• Develop and optimize food formulations and prototypes that align with product specifications, performance targets, and market requirements
• Conduct comprehensive product testing and sensory evaluation to validate functionality, shelf stability, and consumer appeal
• Plan and oversee plant trials, coordinating between R&D and manufacturing to ensure successful scale-up and production readiness
• Manage the technical documentation and regulatory pathways required to bring new products to market
• Troubleshoot production challenges and recommend improvements to formulation or process parameters
• Collaborate with product management, quality assurance, and supply chain teams to ensure alignment on specifications and timelines

What We're Looking For

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Chemistry, or related discipline
• Proven experience in food product development, formulation, or food science research
• Solid understanding of food chemistry, ingredient functionality, and processing techniques
• Experience with food safety regulations, labeling requirements, and quality assurance
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail
• Excellent communication abilities and ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams
• Familiarity with sensory evaluation, stability testing, or shelf-life studies preferred

About Actalent

Actalent connects exceptional talent with leading employers across science and engineering. We're committed to advancing innovation in food, beverage, pharmaceuticals, and industrial sectors by matching skilled professionals with meaningful roles that drive industry progress.

How to Apply

To apply, complete your application directly on this page, or you'll be redirected to the employer's application platform to finish submitting there.