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Entry Level Food Science Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Food Science information

See Arizona salary details

$11

$21

$31

How much do entry level food science jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level food science in Arizona is $21.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $26.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level food science job?

Entry level food science jobs are positions for individuals who are new to the field of food science, often requiring a bachelor's degree in food science or a related field. These roles typically involve assisting with product development, quality assurance, food safety, laboratory testing, or regulatory compliance in food production environments. Common job titles include food technologist, quality assurance technician, and laboratory assistant. These positions provide foundational experience and training, preparing employees for more advanced roles within the food industry.

What are typical projects or tasks an entry level food scientist can expect to work on during their first year?

As an entry-level food scientist, you will often assist with product development, quality assurance testing, and sensory evaluations. Your daily tasks may include preparing samples, running basic laboratory tests, documenting results, and supporting senior scientists with research projects. You may also participate in cross-functional meetings with marketing, production, and regulatory teams to ensure product safety and compliance. This hands-on exposure helps you gain a solid understanding of the food production process and prepares you for more advanced responsibilities as you progress in your career.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level food scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Food Scientist, you generally need a bachelor’s degree in food science or a related field, along with foundational knowledge in chemistry, microbiology, and food safety. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, quality assurance protocols, and software for data analysis such as Excel or specialized lab management systems is typical. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and problem-solving skills help individuals excel in team environments and manage project tasks efficiently. These competencies are vital for ensuring product safety, quality, and regulatory compliance within the food industry.

What is the difference between Entry Level Food Science vs Entry Level Food Technologist?

AspectEntry Level Food ScienceEntry Level Food Technologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Food Science, Chemistry, or related fieldBachelor's in Food Science, Food Technology, or related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, production facilities, research settingsManufacturing plants, quality control labs, R&D departments
Employer & Industry UsageFood companies, research institutions, government agenciesFood manufacturing, processing companies, quality assurance teams
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Food Science and Entry Level Food Technologist roles often overlap in education and work environment, focusing on food safety, quality, and product development. The main difference lies in terminology used by employers and industry preferences, but both positions serve as foundational roles in food industry careers.

How to start a career in food science?

To start a career in food science, obtain a bachelor's degree in food science, chemistry, biology, or a related field. Gaining hands-on experience through internships or entry-level positions and developing skills in laboratory techniques and food safety are important steps. Certifications such as HACCP or SQF can also enhance job prospects.

What type of jobs can you get with an entry level food science degree?

Entry level food science graduates can pursue roles such as quality assurance technician, food safety analyst, product development assistant, or production technician. These positions often involve laboratory work, food testing, and ensuring compliance with safety standards, requiring knowledge of food regulations and basic laboratory skills.

Where would you start as an entry level food science job in the food industry?

Entry level food science positions typically start in roles such as laboratory technician, quality control analyst, or production assistant. These roles involve tasks like sample testing, data recording, and assisting with product development, often requiring basic knowledge of food safety standards and laboratory equipment. Starting in these positions provides foundational experience for advancing in the food science industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Food Science jobs in Arizona?

The most popular types of Food Science jobs in Arizona are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Food Science jobs in Arizona?

For Entry Level Food Science jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Food Science jobs in Arizona look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Food Science jobs in Arizona are:

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Entry Level Food Science jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Entry Level Food Science job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Food Science job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, and 18% Part Time. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $43,777 per year, or $21 per hour.

Chemist I - Nutrition Manufacturing - Night Shift - Casa Grande, AZ

Abbott

Casa Grande, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 15 days ago


Abbott rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 138 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

177th of 540 rated manufacturers


Job description

Abbott is a global healthcare leader that helps people live more fully at all stages of life. Our portfolio of life-changing technologies spans the spectrum of healthcare, with leading businesses and products in diagnostics, medical devices, nutritionals and branded generic medicines. Our 115,000 colleagues serve people in more than 160 countries.
JOB DESCRIPTION:
Abbott Nutrition in Casa Grande, AZ is seeking a Chemist I.
The Chemist I provides essential technical support for laboratory operations by conducting routine testing, preparing solutions and reagents, maintaining laboratory equipment and supplies, and ensuring accurate documentation of results. This entry-level role works under direct supervision and supports activities within Quality, Production, Research & Development, and Compliance/Environmental functions while adhering to company and regulatory standards.
This role provides an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on laboratory experience while supporting critical quality, production, and research activities. The Chemist I plays an important role in ensuring accurate testing, maintaining laboratory efficiency, and supporting the delivery of high-quality products.
Working at Abbott
At Abbott, you can do work that matters, grow, and learn, care for yourself and your family, be your true self, and live a full life. You'll also have access to:
  • Career development with an international company where you can grow the career you dream of.
  • Employees can qualify for free medical coverage in our Health Investment Plan (HIP) PPO medical plan in the next calendar year.
  • An excellent retirement savings plan with a high employer contribution
  • Tuition reimbursement, the Freedom 2 Save student debt program, and FreeU education benefit - an affordable and convenient path to getting a bachelor's degree.
  • A company recognized as a great place to work in dozens of countries worldwide and named one of the most admired companies in the world by Fortune.
  • A company that is recognized as one of the best big companies to work for as well as the best place to work for diversity, working mothers, female executives, and scientists.

The Opportunity
This position works out of our Casa Grande, Arizona location in the Abbott Nutrition division. Our Nutrition business develops science-based nutrition products for people of all ages, from helping babies and children grow to keeping adult bodies strong and active. Millions of people around the world count on our leading brands - including Similac®, PediaSure®, Pedialyte®, Ensure®, and Glucerna® - to help them get the nutrients they need to live their healthiest lives.
Casa Grande, AZ., is one of Abbott's leading nutrition manufacturing plants in the U.S., reflecting our commitment to innovation and excellence. But we're more than just a company, we're a family. Working here you'll be part of a family that works together to make a difference and enhance the lives of millions worldwide.
What You'll Work On:
  • Perform routine laboratory procedures, including the preparation of solutions, reagents, samples, and testing materials.

  • Conduct basic laboratory analyses and technical procedures following established protocols and work instructions.
  • Observe, collect, and accurately record test results and laboratory data.
  • Perform routine calculations and compile data for review and evaluation.
  • Support laboratory operations by stocking, organizing, and distributing supplies and equipment.
  • Assemble, arrange, dismantle, clean, and maintain laboratory apparatus and workspaces.
  • Collect, clean, and properly store laboratory glassware and equipment.
  • Maintain accurate records and documentation in compliance with company policies, regulatory requirements, and quality standards.
  • Assist with the analysis, tracking, and management of compounds, samples, and related laboratory inventories as assigned.
  • Support laboratory functions in one or more areas, including:
  • Production
  • Research & Development
  • Quality Control/Quality Assurance
  • Compliance and Environmental Monitoring
  • Follow all safety, quality, and Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) requirements.

You'll be accountable for meeting our compliance standards including FDA, OSHA and Abbott policies and procedures.
Required Qualifications
Education
  • Technical Diploma, associate degree, or equivalent education in Laboratory Science, Chemistry, Biology, Food Science, or a related technical field preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Basic understanding of laboratory practices, procedures, and safety requirements.
  • Ability to accurately follow written instructions, standard operating procedures, and testing protocols.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to data accuracy.
  • Basic mathematical and analytical skills.
  • Ability to maintain organized records and documentation.
  • Proficiency with standard laboratory equipment and computer applications.
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills.
  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced laboratory environment under direct supervision.

Pay and Shift:
  • $24.50/hour

The shift and hours: This is a 12-hour NIGHT shift position from 6:00 pm to 6:00 am and allows you to have every other weekend off.
  • Schedule: 12-hour Day Shift from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
  • Work-Life Balance: Enjoy every other weekend off with a consistent rotating schedule.

Shift Pattern:
  • Week 1: Wed & Thurs (12 hrs)
  • Week 2: Mon, Tues, Fri, Sat, Sun (12 hrs)
  • Week 3: Wed & Thurs (12 hrs)
  • Week 4: Mon, Tues, Fri, Sat, Sun (12 hrs)

Apply Now
Learn more about our health and wellness benefits, which provide the security to help you and your family live full lives: www.abbottbenefits.com
Follow your career aspirations to Abbott for diverse opportunities with a company that can help you build your future and live your best life. Abbott is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Military/Veteran friendly Employer, committed to employee diversity.
Connect with us at www.abbott.com, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Abbott, and on Twitter @AbbottNews.
The base pay for this position is
$19.05 - $38.15/hour
In specific locations, the pay range may vary from the range posted.
JOB FAMILY:
Operations Quality
DIVISION:
ANSC Nutrition Supply Chain
LOCATION:
United States > Casa Grande : Plant
ADDITIONAL LOCATIONS:
WORK SHIFT:
Standard
TRAVEL:
No
MEDICAL SURVEILLANCE:
No
SIGNIFICANT WORK ACTIVITIES:
Continuous standing for prolonged periods (more than 2 consecutive hours in an 8 hour day), Continuous walking for prolonged periods (more than 2 hours at a time in an 8 hour day), Lift, carry, push or pull weights of more than 20 pounds/9 kilos on a regular/daily basis, Wear ear plugs, Work in a clean room environment
Abbott is an Equal Opportunity Employer of Minorities/Women/Individuals with Disabilities/Protected Veterans.
EEO is the Law link - English: http://webstorage.abbott.com/common/External/EEO_English.pdf
EEO is the Law link - Espanol: http://webstorage.abbott.com/common/External/EEO_Spanish.pdf

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