Entry Level Food Science Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

The Quality Technician supports food safety and quality programs within a dairy manufacturing facility by performing laboratory testing, product evaluations, and environmental sampling. This is an excellent opportunity for recent graduates and entry-level candidates interested in Quality Assurance, Food Safety, Microbiology, or Laboratory Operations.

• Collect and test in-process and finished product samples.
• Perform routine laboratory testing, including pH, wet chemistry, and basic microbiological testing.
• Conduct environmental and air sampling to support food safety programs.
• Document test results and maintain accurate records.
• Participate in product taste testing as part of quality evaluations.
• Maintain a clean, organized laboratory and follow GMP and food safety procedures.
• Work closely with Quality and Production teams to support product quality.

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Biology, Microbiology, Chemistry, Dairy Science, Animal Science, or a related field preferred.
• Laboratory experience through coursework, internships, research, manufacturing, or quality environments is a plus but not required.
• Strong attention to detail and willingness to learn.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and participating in dairy product evaluations.

• Food manufacturing, quality assurance, quality control, or laboratory experience.
• Exposure to GMPs, HACCP, microbiology, wet chemistry, or sample collection.

• Hands-on experience in food quality, microbiology, and laboratory testing.
• Exposure to food safety systems and dairy manufacturing operations.
• Training from an experienced and supportive quality team.
• Growth opportunities within Quality, Food Safety, and Laboratory Operations.

Most of the work is performed in the laboratory, with occasional time spent in production areas collecting samples. You'll join a collaborative team known for its strong culture, training, and support of new employees.

This is a Contract position based out of O Fallon, IL.

The pay range for this position is $23.00 - $23.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in O Fallon,IL.

This position is anticipated to close on Sep 4, 2026.

About Actalent

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The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

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