Food Scientist Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
Food scientists develop products, test formulations, and ensure food safety compliance, work that typically requires specialized chemistry, microbiology, or food science expertise. Most H-1B visa and O-1 visa applications for food scientists succeed because the role clearly meets specialty occupation requirements through specific degree matching and technical knowledge demands. For detailed occupation requirements, see the O*NET profile.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
Food Scientist - Bakery - Decatur, IL
The Food Scientist - Bakery will utilize their food science expertise to drive sales through the development of compelling, innovative and winning products. This position will work closely and cross-functionally with R&D, Technical Services, Technical Sales, and Sales & Marketing teams. The successful candidate will be self-motivated, agile and team oriented.
KEY SKILLS & COMPETENCIES:
- Provide technical leadership and strong project management for internal and external customer projects
- Lead development of Bakery food products, including bakery mixes, and various flour based bakery and snack items
- Provides thought leadership and technical expertise for innovation initiatives
- Will consult with and participate in Flour and Baking industry based research projects
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Development and optimization of food product formulations
- Responsible for designing and running test formulations
- Identification and development of cost improvement opportunities
- Supports manufacturing scale-up from bench to pilot plant and pilot plant to commercialization including partnering with R&D where appropriate
- Project management – lead multiple product development and applications projects with expedited timelines, leads complex and cross-functional projects
- Develops and maintains technical-to-technical relationships with customers
- Conducts internal and external product demonstrations
- Accompanies Account Managers on sales calls to serve as technical contact
- Communicates effectively in both verbal and written forms, including presentation of products and technical information to peers, leadership and customers
- Maintains awareness of industry trends and new ingredient innovations and offerings
- May have direct report responsibility
- Follows basic GMP, GLP and ISO procedures
- Ability to travel up to 25% of time
CORE COMPETENCIES:
Sense of urgency, acceptance of change, communication, technical knowledge, quality minded, collaboration, flexibility, teamwork, problem solving, dependability, curiosity, integrity and a commitment to safety.
KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS:
- BS or higher (Food Science or related)
- 3 to 5 years product development and applications experience
- Industrial and/or retail bakery experience is valued
- Hands on Baked goods category experience expected, (Bread, Buns, Snacks, Flatbreads, Ready Meals, Sweet Goods)
- Knowledge of food industry, food ingredients, manufacturing processes and food regulations
- Food product commercialization experience preferred
Excited about this role but don’t think you meet every requirement listed? We encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this role or another one of our openings.
ADM requires the successful completion of a background check.
REF:108534BR
Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours.
If hired, employees will be in an “at-will position” and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.
The pay range for this position is expected to be between:
$104,100.00 - $157,000.00
Salaried Incentive Plan
The total compensation package for this position will also include annual bonus and a long-term incentive plan.
Benefits and Perks
Enriching the quality of life for the world begins by taking care of our colleagues. In addition to competitive pay, we support your diverse needs with a comprehensive total rewards package to enhance your well-being, including:
- Physical wellness – medical/Rx, dental, vision and on-site wellness center access or gym reimbursement (as applicable).
- Financial wellness – flexible spending accounts, health savings account, 401(k) with matching contributions and cash balance plan, discounted employee stock purchasing program, life insurance, disability, workers’ compensation, legal assistance, identity theft protection.
- Mental and social wellness – Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and Colleague Giving Programs (ADM Cares).
Additional benefits include:
- Paid time off including paid holidays.
- Adoption assistance and paid maternity and parental leave.
- Tuition assistance.
- Company-sponsored training and development resources, such as LinkedIn Learning, language training and mentoring programs.
- Benefits may vary for bargained locations, confirm benefit eligibility with your recruiter.
#IncludingYou
Diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging are cornerstones of ADM’s efforts to continue innovating, driving growth, and delivering outstanding performance. We are committed to attracting and retaining a diverse workforce and create welcoming, truly inclusive work environments — environments that enable every ADM colleague to feel comfortable on the job, make meaningful contributions to our success, and grow their career. We respect and value the unique backgrounds and experiences that each person can bring to ADM because we know that diversity of perspectives makes us better, together.
We welcome everyone to apply. We are committed to ensuring all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, ethnicity, disability, religion, national origin, language, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, sexual orientation, age, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
About ADM
At ADM, we unlock the power of nature to provide access to nutrition worldwide. With industry-advancing innovations, a complete portfolio of ingredients and solutions to meet any taste, and a commitment to sustainability, we give customers an edge in solving the nutritional challenges of today and tomorrow. We’re a global leader in human and animal nutrition and the world’s premier agricultural origination and processing company. Our breadth, depth, insights, facilities and logistical expertise give us unparalleled capabilities to meet needs for food, beverages, health and wellness, and more. From the seed of the idea to the outcome of the solution, we enrich the quality of life the world over.
Req/Job ID
108534BR
LI-Onsite
Ref ID
LI-JW1
INTRODUCTION
Food Scientist - Bakery - Decatur, IL
The Food Scientist - Bakery will utilize their food science expertise to drive sales through the development of compelling, innovative and winning products. This position will work closely and cross-functionally with R&D, Technical Services, Technical Sales, and Sales & Marketing teams. The successful candidate will be self-motivated, agile and team oriented.
KEY SKILLS & COMPETENCIES:
- Provide technical leadership and strong project management for internal and external customer projects
- Lead development of Bakery food products, including bakery mixes, and various flour based bakery and snack items
- Provides thought leadership and technical expertise for innovation initiatives
- Will consult with and participate in Flour and Baking industry based research projects
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Development and optimization of food product formulations
- Responsible for designing and running test formulations
- Identification and development of cost improvement opportunities
- Supports manufacturing scale-up from bench to pilot plant and pilot plant to commercialization including partnering with R&D where appropriate
- Project management – lead multiple product development and applications projects with expedited timelines, leads complex and cross-functional projects
- Develops and maintains technical-to-technical relationships with customers
- Conducts internal and external product demonstrations
- Accompanies Account Managers on sales calls to serve as technical contact
- Communicates effectively in both verbal and written forms, including presentation of products and technical information to peers, leadership and customers
- Maintains awareness of industry trends and new ingredient innovations and offerings
- May have direct report responsibility
- Follows basic GMP, GLP and ISO procedures
- Ability to travel up to 25% of time
CORE COMPETENCIES:
Sense of urgency, acceptance of change, communication, technical knowledge, quality minded, collaboration, flexibility, teamwork, problem solving, dependability, curiosity, integrity and a commitment to safety.
KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS:
- BS or higher (Food Science or related)
- 3 to 5 years product development and applications experience
- Industrial and/or retail bakery experience is valued
- Hands on Baked goods category experience expected, (Bread, Buns, Snacks, Flatbreads, Ready Meals, Sweet Goods)
- Knowledge of food industry, food ingredients, manufacturing processes and food regulations
- Food product commercialization experience preferred
Excited about this role but don’t think you meet every requirement listed? We encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this role or another one of our openings.
ADM requires the successful completion of a background check.
REF:108534BR
Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours.
If hired, employees will be in an “at-will position” and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.
The pay range for this position is expected to be between:
$104,100.00 - $157,000.00
Salaried Incentive Plan
The total compensation package for this position will also include annual bonus and a long-term incentive plan.
Benefits and Perks
Enriching the quality of life for the world begins by taking care of our colleagues. In addition to competitive pay, we support your diverse needs with a comprehensive total rewards package to enhance your well-being, including:
- Physical wellness – medical/Rx, dental, vision and on-site wellness center access or gym reimbursement (as applicable).
- Financial wellness – flexible spending accounts, health savings account, 401(k) with matching contributions and cash balance plan, discounted employee stock purchasing program, life insurance, disability, workers’ compensation, legal assistance, identity theft protection.
- Mental and social wellness – Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and Colleague Giving Programs (ADM Cares).
Additional benefits include:
- Paid time off including paid holidays.
- Adoption assistance and paid maternity and parental leave.
- Tuition assistance.
- Company-sponsored training and development resources, such as LinkedIn Learning, language training and mentoring programs.
- Benefits may vary for bargained locations, confirm benefit eligibility with your recruiter.
#IncludingYou
Diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging are cornerstones of ADM’s efforts to continue innovating, driving growth, and delivering outstanding performance. We are committed to attracting and retaining a diverse workforce and create welcoming, truly inclusive work environments — environments that enable every ADM colleague to feel comfortable on the job, make meaningful contributions to our success, and grow their career. We respect and value the unique backgrounds and experiences that each person can bring to ADM because we know that diversity of perspectives makes us better, together.
We welcome everyone to apply. We are committed to ensuring all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, ethnicity, disability, religion, national origin, language, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, sexual orientation, age, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
About ADM
At ADM, we unlock the power of nature to provide access to nutrition worldwide. With industry-advancing innovations, a complete portfolio of ingredients and solutions to meet any taste, and a commitment to sustainability, we give customers an edge in solving the nutritional challenges of today and tomorrow. We’re a global leader in human and animal nutrition and the world’s premier agricultural origination and processing company. Our breadth, depth, insights, facilities and logistical expertise give us unparalleled capabilities to meet needs for food, beverages, health and wellness, and more. From the seed of the idea to the outcome of the solution, we enrich the quality of life the world over.
Req/Job ID
108534BR
LI-Onsite
Ref ID
LI-JW1
See all 41+ Food Scientist jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Food Scientist roles.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Visa Sponsorship as a Food Scientist
Target food manufacturers and CPG companies
Major food corporations like General Mills, Kraft Heinz, and PepsiCo regularly sponsor H-1B visas for food scientists. They understand the specialized degree requirements and have established immigration processes.
Emphasize your specialized degree match
Food science, chemistry, microbiology, or biochemistry degrees align perfectly with USCIS specialty occupation criteria. Document how your coursework directly applies to product development and safety testing responsibilities.
Highlight regulatory compliance expertise
FDA regulations, HACCP protocols, and food safety standards require specialized knowledge that employers can't easily find domestically. This strengthens both your H-1B petition and employer's business case.
Consider research and development roles
R&D positions often qualify for O-1 visas if you have published research, patents, or industry recognition. Food science innovations can demonstrate extraordinary ability more easily than routine quality control.
Document your laboratory and analytical skills
Chromatography, spectroscopy, and microbiological testing techniques require specific training that supports visa petitions. List equipment experience and analytical methods you've mastered in your applications.
Apply to cap-exempt research institutions
Universities and nonprofit research institutes aren't subject to H-1B lottery caps. Food science research positions at these organizations can provide immediate visa sponsorship without timing constraints.
Food Scientist jobs are hiring across the US. Find yours.
Find Food Scientist JobsFrequently Asked Questions
Do food scientists qualify for H-1B visas?
Yes, food scientists typically qualify because the role requires specialized knowledge in chemistry, microbiology, or food science that directly corresponds to specific degree programs. USCIS recognizes food science as a specialty occupation when the job duties involve product development, safety testing, or regulatory compliance requiring technical expertise.
What degree do I need for visa sponsorship as a food scientist?
A bachelor's degree in food science, chemistry, microbiology, biochemistry, or closely related field is typically required. Some employers accept biology or chemical engineering degrees if combined with relevant food industry experience. The degree field must directly relate to the specific job responsibilities outlined in the visa petition.
Which companies sponsor food scientists for work visas?
Major food manufacturers like General Mills, Kraft Heinz, PepsiCo, Unilever, and Nestlé regularly sponsor H-1B visas for food scientists. Contract research organizations, flavor companies like Givaudan, and agricultural technology firms also provide sponsorship opportunities for qualified candidates.
Can food scientists get O-1 visas instead of H-1B?
Yes, if you have published research, patents, industry awards, or peer recognition in food science. O-1 visas work well for food scientists with advanced degrees doing innovative research in areas like alternative proteins, food safety technology, or sustainable agriculture. The extraordinary ability standard requires documented achievements beyond routine product development.
Do I need work experience if I have a food science degree?
Generally no, a relevant bachelor's degree is sufficient for entry-level food scientist positions requiring visa sponsorship. However, specialized roles in areas like sensory analysis or food packaging may prefer candidates with industry experience or advanced degrees to strengthen the visa petition against USCIS scrutiny.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored Food Scientist jobs?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.
How to find Food Scientist jobs with visa sponsorship?
Finding Food Scientist positions with visa sponsorship requires targeting the right employers and platforms. Use Migrate Mate to access verified sponsor employers actively hiring Food Scientists for H-1B, O-1, and other work visas. Focus on food manufacturing companies, agricultural biotechnology firms, research institutions, and consumer goods corporations that regularly sponsor international talent for specialized scientific roles.
See which Food Scientist employers are hiring and sponsoring visas right now.
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