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Entry Level Food Science Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Microbac

Laboratory Technician

Newton, IA · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

... life science, food and nutrition, and environmental industries and serves our clients with the ... entry level laboratory duties, resulting in the timely and accurate reporting of data * Gather ...

Palmer Group

Laboratory Technician

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$19/hr

In addition to meaningful work, you would gain hands-on experience with advanced scientific ... From entry-level positions to professional and executive-level openings, we work with companies of ...

UnityPoint Health

Clinical Dietitian

Fort Dodge, IA · On-site

... false" data-turn="user"> Food has the power to heal-and we're looking for a Dietitian who ... If you're ready to combine science, compassion, and creativity to help patients thrive, we'd love ...

UnityPoint Health

Clinical Dietitian

Fort Dodge, IA · On-site

... false" data-turn="user"> Food has the power to heal-and we're looking for a Dietitian who ... If you're ready to combine science, compassion, and creativity to help patients thrive, we'd love ...

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

Entry Level Food Science information

See Iowa salary details

$11

$21

$31

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

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level food science in Iowa is $21.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.34 and $26.63 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 Iowa?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cities in Iowa 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 Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, and 32% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,123 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Food Safety and Quality Associate Supervisor- Osceola, IA

Columbus Craft Meats

Osceola, IA • On-site

$57K - $81K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

About Hormel Foods

Hormel Foods Corporation, based in Austin, Minnesota, is a global branded food company with over $12 billion in annual revenue. Its brands include PLANTERS, SKIPPY, SPAM, HORMEL NATURAL CHOICE, APPLEGATE, WHOLLY, HORMEL BLACK LABEL, COLUMBUS, JENNIE-O and more than 30 other beloved brands. The Company is a member of the S&P 500 Index and the S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats, was named one of the best companies to work for by U.S. News & World Report and one of America's most responsible companies by Newsweek, was recognized by TIME magazine as one of the World's Best Companies and has received numerous other awards and accolades for its corporate responsibility and community service efforts. For more information, visit hormelfoods.com.

Food Safety and Quality Associate/Supervisor - Osceola, IA

Job Purpose

Supports management in the implementation of food safety and food quality processes and procedures. Trains and manages 4-6 quality auditors.

Responsibilities

  • Lead, direct and train employees to achieve quality standards
  • Manage product quality
  • Creates and maintains an engaged and team-oriented work force to improve business results
  • Consults with management, providing leadership on quality and food safety in the manufacturing facility
  • Oversees sanitation procedures and food safety
  • This position is very hands-on - Food Safety and Quality Supervisors are usually in the production area "on their feet" about 60% of the shift

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Animal Science, Agricultural Business, Management, Business Administration, or a related field with a minimum 2.7 cumulative GPA, 3.0 preferred, OR 5+ years of relevant supervisory experience 
  • Must be a Citizen or National of the United States, a lawful, permanent resident, or have authorization to work in the United States
  • Applicants must not now, or in the future, require sponsorship for an employment visa
  • Must be comfortable with the preparation and consumption of a variety of Hormel Foods Products, which may include but not limited to, pork, beef, chicken, turkey, and nuts
  • Must be open to relocation
  • Facilitated clear and effective communication across cross-functional teams in a manufacturing environment, ensuring seamless collaboration and prompt resolution of issues by utilizing thorough verbal and written formats
  • Applicants must not now, or at any time in the future, require employer sponsorship for a work visa.
  • applicants must be authorized to work in the United States for any employer.
  • Must be 18 years of age or older (all plant positions)


 

Hormel Foods does not offer sponsorship of job applicants for employment-based visas. 

Hours

This is a full-time, salaried position.

Location

  • This is an on-site position based out of our production facility in Osceola, IA.

Hormel Foods does not currently offer remote entry level career opportunities.

Compensation/Benefits

  • The base hiring pay range for this role is between $57,900-$81,100 per year, and your actual base pay within that range will depend upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, job-related knowledge, skill set, level of experience, and geographic market location. 
  • Reimbursement of eligible relocation expenses
  • Other components of Hormel Foods' total compensation package includes comprehensive medical, dental and vision coverage, discretionary annual merit increases, bonuses and profit sharing, 401(k) with employer match, stock purchase plan, relocation assistance, paid time off, FREE two-year community/technical college tuition for children of employees, and more.

Training

Training is hands-on and consists of supervisory training and courses in Statistical Process Control (SPC), Total Quality Control (TQC), and Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP)

Advancement

The Food Safety and Quality career path may include advancing to a higher-level quality management positions at your current location, another facility, subsidiary location, or the Corporate Office

Hormel Foods' "promote-from-within" philosophy rewards outstanding performance


 

At Hormel we invite difference and diversity in all aspects. We offer a space of support, understanding, and community. We are committed to the journey! Learn more about our progress here: https://www.hormelfoods.com/about/inclusion-and-belonging/

Hormel Foods provides equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race; color; sex; gender identity; sexual orientation; religious practices and observances; national origin; pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; status as a protected veteran or spouse/family member of a protected veteran; or disability.

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