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Entry Level Food Science Jobs in Arkansas (NOW HIRING)

State of Arkansas

BIOLOGIST I

Little Rock, AR · On-site

$58K - $86K/yr

... food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. The Department is ... SPC01 Salary Range: $58,700 - $86,876 Job Summary The Biologist I is an entry-level scientific ...

All JobsFood Science JobsEntry Level Food Science JobsEntry Level Food Science Jobs in Arkansas

Entry Level Food Science information

See Arkansas salary details

$9

$18

$27

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

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level food science in Arkansas is $18.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.51 and $23.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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

Entry level food science positions often begin in roles such as quality assurance technician, production assistant, or lab technician, where basic knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and testing procedures is required. These roles typically involve working in manufacturing or laboratory environments and may require familiarity with industry regulations and safety protocols.

What are entry level food science jobs?

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 kind of job can I get with a food science degree?

With a food science degree, you can pursue roles such as food technologist, quality assurance specialist, product development scientist, or food safety analyst. These jobs typically involve working in laboratories, manufacturing facilities, or research settings, often requiring knowledge of food processing, safety standards, and laboratory techniques.

Can I be a food scientist without a degree?

Becoming a food scientist typically requires at least a bachelor's degree in food science, chemistry, biology, or a related field. While some entry-level positions may accept relevant experience or certifications, most employers prefer candidates with formal education and knowledge of laboratory techniques and food safety standards.

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 are some 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.

How to get into a food science career?

To start a career in food science, obtain a bachelor's degree in food science, chemistry, biology, or a related field. Gaining 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 are the most commonly searched types of Food Science jobs in Arkansas? The most popular types of Food Science jobs in Arkansas are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Food Science jobs in Arkansas look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Food Science jobs in Arkansas are:
What cities in Arkansas are hiring for Entry Level Food Science jobs? Cities in Arkansas with the most Entry Level Food Science job openings:
Entry Level Food Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Food Science job openings in Arkansas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,845 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Entry Level General Production- Full Time-2nd Shift- Nashville AR- July

Tyson Foods

Nashville, AR • On-site

$14.75 - $18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

Tyson Foods rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 544 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

307th of 434 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

Job Details:

Job Description

This position is responsible for entry level non-skilled general labor while maintaining a safe work environment and adhering to Tyson policies and procedures. Applicants will be considered for any general labor type openings. Standing, walking, bending, squatting, stretching, climbing, pushing, pulling and reaching are required in all areas. Lifting up to 40 lbs or more if required, able to stand 8-10 hours on hard floors and repetitive motions is required in many areas (weight depends on area). These positions work in a cold, damp or hot and humid environment and these areas have slippery walking surfaces.Some weekend work will be required.

"Must reside within a 50-mile radius of the Nashville Plant."

***Rehires are subject to a 1 year waiting period

***Benefits Will Start Day of Hire

***Candidates that have worked for Tyson Foods 3 or more times will NOT be eligible for hire

Requirements:

If an applicant meets Tyson's minimum requirements for consideration, they may be contacted for an interview.

Your application is only active for the current month in which you applied. You will need to reapply next month to have an active application and be considered for employment.

Complete all tasks listed on the candidate home page when completing a Tyson Foods employment application. If not, you will see a message that 1 or more task(s) require attention. Applicants for hourly production positions must complete the task to provide additional information to be considered for employment.

Benefits include:

  • Health and Life Insurance starting on your first day!

  • Free Education starting your first day on 175-degree programs!

  • Free Telemedicine Visits

  • Citizenship Assistance

  • 401k and Stock Options

  • 9 Paid Holidays

  • Vacation Time

  • Earned Time Off

  • And Much More! (See below)

More Benefits:

  • Voluntary and Company Paid Life and Disability Insurance

  • Full Medical, Vision, Dental, and Prescription Insurance

  • Health Savings and Flex Spend Accounts

  • Paid Bereavement Time

  • Free Mental Health Services

  • Wellness Services

  • Free Chaplain Services

  • Discounts on thousands of programs and services through Bene place

  • Discounted Home and Auto Insurance

  • Voluntary Legal Assistance

🚀 Why Start Your Career at Tyson Foods? 🚀

💡 Community and Workforce: Our people are our greatest asset, and we invest in our workforce through continuous learning and development programs. We also actively engage with our communities, fostering a culture of inclusivity and support.

💼 Career Growth: With a wide range of roles across various departments, the opportunities for professional development are as diverse as our team.
🤝 Partnerships and Collaborations: Through strategic partnerships, we're addressing food insecurity and working on solutions that benefit both society and the environment.

🌱 Sustainability Efforts: We're making strides in renewable energy usage and regenerative agriculture practices, ensuring that we're not just feeding the present but nurturing the planet for generations to come.
🔬 Innovation in Protein: Our dedication to innovation is not limited to environmental initiatives. We're exploring alternative proteins and cutting-edge technologies to meet the evolving demands of consumers worldwide.

🏆 Award-Winning Workplace: We take pride in our workplace environment and have been recognized for our efforts to create a rewarding and engaging culture.

🥇 We Are the Industry Leader: Join a team that sets the standard for excellence in the food industry as the world's largest processor and marketer of chicken, beef, and pork.

Whether you're a farmer, chef, scientist, marketer, or have skills in countless other fields, there's a place for you at Tyson Foods where you can contribute to a stronger, safer, and more sustainable food supply. Tyson Foods is the place where your career can flourish. We're dedicated to creating a supportive environment where you can be proud of the work you do every day.

For more openings, check us out online at https://www.tysonfoods.com/careers

Careers

Wherever your talents lie, Tyson Foods provides opportunities for career development and to make a difference. Find a full list of jobs and careers here!

All team members are responsible for safety. This includes but is not limited to personal safety and food safety.

"The successful candidate(s) must be willing and able to perform the physical requirements of the job with or without a reasonable accommodation."

For more openings, check us out online athttps://www.tysonfoods.com/careers

Wherever your talents lie, Tyson Foods provides opportunities for career development and to make a difference. Find a full list of jobs and careers here!

When completing a Tyson Foods employment application, complete all tasks listed on the candidate home page. If not, you will see a message that 1 or more task(s) require attention. Applicants for hourly production positions must complete the task to provide additional information to be considered for employment.

Relocation Assistance Eligible:

No

Work Shift:

2ND SHIFT (United States of America)

Certain roles at Tyson require background checks. If you are offered a position that requires a background check you will be provided additional documentation to complete once an offer has been extended.

Hourly Applicants ONLY -You must complete the task after submitting your application to provide additional information to be considered for employment.


The successful candidate(s) must be willing and able to perform the physical requirements of the job with or without a reasonable accommodation.


Tyson is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, national origin, color, religion, age, genetics, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or veteran status.


We provide our team members and their families with paid time off; 401(k) plans; affordable health, life, dental, vision and prescription drug benefits; and more.


If you would like to learn more about your data privacy rights and how you may use that information, please read our Job Applicant Privacy Notice here.


Unsolicited Assistance: Tyson Foods and its subsidiaries do not accept unsolicited support from external recruitment vendors for open positions within the United States. Any resumes or candidate profiles submitted by recruitment vendors or headhunters to any employee or applicant tracking system at Tyson Foods or its subsidiaries, without a valid written request and search agreement approved by HR, will be considered the property of Tyson Foods. No fees will be paid if the candidate is hired due to an unsolicited referral.

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