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Entry Level Food Science Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Archer Daniels Midland

Entry Level Lab Technician - Decatur, IL Job Summary Performs chemical and microbiological analysis ... Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Food Science ...

Posted today

Actalent

Quality Technician

O Fallon, IL

$23/hr

This is an excellent opportunity for recent graduates and entry-level candidates interested in ... Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Biology, Microbiology, Chemistry, Dairy Science, Animal Science ...

Chicago Meat Authority, Inc.

Sales Specialist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50K - $60K/yr

This entry-level position offers hands-on learning and the opportunity to gain valuable industry ... Bachelor's degree in Food Science or Agriculture preferred; motivated individuals eager to launch a ...

Deibel Laboratories Inc

Lab Technician I

Niles, IL · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Science you can trust from concept to consumer. Since 1967, Deibel Laboratories has operated ... We play an integral role in food and product safety for industry-leading producers, as well as ...

ADM

Lab Technician (Relief Swing Shift)

Decatur, IL · On-site

$22.41/hr

The entry level position is designed to train the new technician on one of the four (4) analytical ... college science lab is preferred Experience in lieu of college laboratory experience will be ...

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Entry Level Food Science information

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$11

$21

$32

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

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level food science in Illinois is $21.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $27.50 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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cities in Illinois 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 Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, and 22% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,521 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Entry Level Lab Technician - Decatur, IL

On-site

Archer Daniels Midland
Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 186 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

76th of 366 rated logistics

People enjoy working here

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Learn more about Archer Daniels Midlandexternal

Full-time

Posted 17 hours ago

Posted today

Job description

Entry Level Lab Technician - Decatur, IL
Job Summary
Performs chemical and microbiological analysis, documentation, and data entry in a high-volume process control laboratory while ensuring compliance with safety, environmental, food safety, and quality programs. Operates, maintains, and troubleshoots laboratory instrumentation, including HPLC systems and other analytical equipment, to support production, product quality, and process improvement initiatives.
Essential Job Functions
  • Analyzes process, production, environmental, and finished product samples to determine product quality, process performance, and food safety compliance.
  • Performs analytical testing using High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and other laboratory instrumentation in accordance with established methods and procedures.
  • Conducts routine microbiological testing and monitoring to support quality assurance and food safety programs.
  • Documents analytical results and laboratory activities, including food safety, product quality, housekeeping, and hazardous waste generation.
  • Reviews analytical data for completeness, accuracy, trends, and product quality or food safety implications.
  • Communicates laboratory results, quality concerns, and operational issues.
  • Enters analytical and microbiological data.
  • Performs routine calibration, verification, preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, and minor repairs on laboratory instruments and equipment.
  • Prepares samples, standards, reagents, and microbiological media according to established procedures.
  • Assists with laboratory housekeeping, organization, inventory control, and compliance activities.
  • Understands their role in food safety and quality systems, actively participates in food safety efforts, and ensures all activities conform to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), laboratory procedures, and regulatory requirements.
  • Works effectively across analytical, instrumentation, and microbiology laboratory areas to support plant operations and business objectives.
  • Other task as assigned.
Minimum Job Requirements
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Basic math, computer, and problem solving skills.
  • Ability to follow written procedures and accurately document laboratory activities.
  • Ability to work safely around chemicals, laboratory equipment, and manufacturing processes.
Education / Experience
  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Food Science, or a related scientific field preferred.
  • Continuing education, technical certification, or laboratory coursework in a science-related field preferred.
  • Previous laboratory experience in analytical chemistry, microbiology, manufacturing, food processing, or quality control preferred.
  • Experience with HPLC systems, laboratory instrumentation, and microbiological testing methods preferred.
Working Conditions
  • Respiratory Hazards:
    • Dust
  • Hot/Cold Temperature Extremes:
    • Temperature and humidity controlled
    • Indoor
  • Chemicals
    • Hazardous chemicals present
  • Lighting
    • Indoor
Physical Requirements
  • Lifts, carries, and transports up to 50 pounds.
  • Ascends and descends stepladders.
  • Positions self to access samples, supplies, and laboratory instruments.
  • Opens, prepares, analyzes, and disposes of samples in accordance with laboratory procedures.
  • Handles laboratory supplies, instruments, sample containers, transfer vessels, and testing materials safely and efficiently.
Excited about this role but don't think you meet every requirement listed? We encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this role or another one of our openings.
ADM requires the successful completion of a background check. 
REF:112422BR
 

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