Food Safety Scientist, Senior Managing Scientist (Ph.D. or M.S.)

Exponent Inc.; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 174,000 - 213,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Dental and vision insurance

401(k) employer contribution

Job summary

Exponent Inc. is seeking a Senior Food Safety Scientist in Washington, DC. The role involves providing technical expertise in food safety and consulting, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, and mentoring junior staff. Candidates should have a Ph.D. or M.S. degree and at least 10 years of relevant experience. Compensation includes a base salary ranging from USD $174,000 to USD $213,000, along with a benefits package that supports employee well-being.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of relevant experience in food safety and regulatory compliance.
• Extensive knowledge of food ingredients and supply chain processes.
• Ability to build a personal consulting practice.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical expertise on food safety to clients.
• Identify and develop new client relationships.
• Prepare technical reports and manage client expectations.

Skills

Technical expertise in food manufacturing

Business development skills

Excellent communication skills

Project management ability

Mentoring

Education

Ph.D. or M.S. in Food Science, Chemistry, or related field

Job description

About the Role

We are currently seeking a Food Safety Scientist for a Senior Managing Scientist position in our Chemical Regulation and Food Safety Practice in Washington, DC (other locations will be considered). In this role you will work as part of a team that is focused on assisting clients to ensure food safety across the entire food production, processing, distribution, and retail/food service continuum. Your responsibilities will include the following:

• Providing technical expertise to clients related to food manufacturing and food safety risk assessment and risk management associated with regulatory compliance and industry best practices.
• Identifying new clients through business development and marketing efforts.
• Producing technical reports and presentations.
• Preparing proposals and managing budgets, timelines, deliverables, client expectations, and receivables.
• Mentoring junior staff.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or M.S. degree with a concentration in Food Science, Chemistry, Biology, Microbiology, Agriculture, Engineering, or related sciences.
• 10 or more years of relevant experience in industry, trade associations, academia, government, or consulting.
• Extensive knowledge of food ingredients, processing, supply chain management, distribution, and retail/food service and related regulatory practices.
• Proven ability or potential to build an existing personal consulting practice comprised of a substantial client base.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple assignments under rigid time constraints.
• Ability to manage client projects independently.
• Ability to manage and participate effectively in team projects.

Compensation and Benefits

Base salary range: USD $174,000 - USD $213,000 per year. Total compensation may include base salary, annual bonus, and a 401(k) employer contribution of 7% of base salary. Eligible employees will receive benefits including health, dental, vision, and additional programs and resources to support well‑being.

Legal Notice

Exponent is a proud equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status. If you need assistance or accommodation due to a disability, you may email us at [e-mail].

Job Location

Washington, DC