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Entry Level Food Science Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

... Food Service, and Retail Operations Experience Level Entry Level Job Type & Location This is a ... About Actalent Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent ...

... 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 ...

... 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 ...

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 7, 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 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 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 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 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.

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.

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.

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 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:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Food Science job openings in Iowa 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 $44,123 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

QA Technician

Actalent

Davenport, IA

$19 - $20/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Description

Perform quality inspections on raw materials, in-process products, and finished goods to ensure compliance with food safety and quality standards. Monitor and document product weights, temperatures, and case specifications throughout the manufacturing process. Verify packaging accuracy, including product codes, date codes, and labeling requirements. Collect, test, and document product samples for laboratory analysis and quality evaluations. Identify, document, and hold non-conforming products for further investigation and corrective action. Monitor production processes and metal detection systems to ensure product safety and regulatory compliance. Ensure adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), HACCP requirements, and company quality standards. Support a safe, sanitary, and compliant production environment through routine inspections and monitoring. Investigate, document, and communicate quality concerns to support continuous improvement efforts. Complete special projects and additional quality assurance duties as assigned.

Skills

Quality assurance, food safety, Haccp, Fda, usda, Gmp, Quality control, Inspection, Sop, sample testing, Document control, Food manufacturing, Laboratory, Food quality, Batch record review

Top Skills Details

Quality assurance,food safety,Haccp,Fda,usda,Gmp,Quality control,Inspection,Sop,sample testing

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Required High School diploma, GED or equivalent, with basic math and computer skills to work with Mi-crosoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and are comfortable with electronic data collection • Must be dependable, available during required work hours, and be willing to work weekends and overtime hours as company necessitates. • Detail-oriented with abilities to follow directions, to record data neatly and accurately, to work under minimal supervision, to multi-task in fast paced environment safety, and to communicate effectively and clearly in a timely manner, both verbally and in writing. • Desired experience with Food Manufacturing, Food Service, and Retail Operations

Experience Level

Entry Level

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Davenport, IA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $19.00 - $20.00/hr.

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)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Davenport,IA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 20, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

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.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.


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About Actalent

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Actalent connects passion with purpose. Our scalable talent solutions and services capabilities drive value and results and provide the expertise to help our customers achieve more. Every day, our experts around the globe are making an impact. We're supporting critical initiatives in engineering and sciences that advance how companies serve the world. Actalent promotes consultant care and engagement through experiences that enable continuous development. Our people are the difference. Actalent is an operating company of Allegis Group, the global leader in talent solutions.

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hanover, MD, US

Year founded

1983

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