It wasn’t long ago that millennials, born between 1981 and 1996, began shaping the modern workplace with their unique preferences and expectations. Today, a new wave is entering the workforce: Generation Z, defined as individuals born between 1997 and 2012.
The eldest Gen Zs are now finishing post-secondary education, participating in internships, and actively seeking employment. Their emergence is already noticeable, with millennials and Gen Zs combined making up nearly 50% of the full-time workforce. This generational shift presents an important opportunity, especially for food industry recruiters seeking to attract and retain young, motivated talent in food industry jobs and food science jobs.
Tech-Savvy and Purpose-Driven
Generation Z is not only digitally fluent—they are highly innovative, fast learners, and values-driven individuals. Companies that want to remain competitive must adapt their strategies to meet this generation’s expectations. Forward-thinking employers, particularly those hiring for food industry jobs, will benefit from understanding and leveraging the insights of this new talent pool.
A recent study surveying over 200 Gen Z individuals across the U.S. reveals essential insights into their expectations from employers, workplace attitudes, and career goals. Understanding what drives Gen Z will help both employers and young professionals thrive together.
Remote Work and Flexible Schedules
The top employment benefits valued by Gen Z include:
- Flexible schedules – 59%
- Work-from-home options – 53%
- Competitive salary – 50%
- Comprehensive healthcare – 37%
- Retirement benefits – 29%
Having grown up during a time of digital transformation—and many having studied virtually—Gen Z finds remote work and flexible hours completely natural. For recruiters hiring into food science jobs, offering hybrid or remote options (when possible), or allowing team members to pursue further education while working, can be a powerful advantage in attracting top talent.
Focus on Learning and Development
Gen Z workers are inquisitive, adaptive, and eager to develop professionally. They value environments where growth is supported and where they can take on new challenges.
Top development opportunities Gen Zs look for in an employer include:
- Working with coaches and mentors – 71%
- Access to online learning – 62%
- Opportunities to join top performers on high-impact projects – 62%
- Formal classroom-style instruction – 31%
In sectors like food science, where innovation and regulation go hand in hand, continuous learning is critical. Employers in the food industry can stand out by actively fostering career development pathways for young employees.
Purpose Over Profit
More than ever, Gen Z is prioritizing careers that align with their personal values. According to the data, 43% of Gen Z professionals say their long-term goal is to make a positive impact on the world. This generation seeks roles where their work contributes meaningfully to society or the environment.
Employers hiring for food industry jobs—especially those with a focus on sustainability, health, or community well-being—can appeal to Gen Z by emphasizing these values in their company culture. Establishing Employee Support Groups (ESGs), promoting community engagement, and offering Volunteer Time Off (VTO) are just some of the ways to build loyalty and connection.
A Generation That Cares
Ultimately, Gen Z is not looking for “just a job.” They want to be part of something bigger, where they are seen, heard, and empowered. This is especially true in science-driven industries like food, where innovation can directly improve public health and sustainability.
For food industry recruiters, aligning job offers with Gen Z values—flexibility, growth, and purpose—can make the difference between attracting passive interest and building passionate, loyal teams. Creating purpose-driven environments where Gen Z professionals can thrive isn’t just good for them—it’s smart business.