2

Entry Level Food Science Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

... sciences company, providing a unique range of analytical testing services to clients across multiple industries, to make life and our environment safer, healthier and more sustainable. From the food ...

Laboratory Technician

Louisville, KY · On-site

$17.50 - $23/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 ...

... 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 ...

Army (Entry-Level, No Experience Needed) Full-time | Part-time | Contract | Paid Training | U.S ... Interest in computer science. * Attention to detail. * Effective communication skills. * Experience ...

Entry Level Food Science information

See Kentucky salary details

$10

$19

$29

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

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level food science in Kentucky is $19.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.18 and $24.62 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 Kentucky? The most popular types of Food Science jobs in Kentucky are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Food Science jobs in Kentucky? For Entry Level Food Science jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Food Science jobs in Kentucky look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Food Science jobs in Kentucky are:
What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Entry Level Food Science jobs? Cities in Kentucky with the most Entry Level Food Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Food Science job openings in Kentucky as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,800 per year, or $19.6 per hour.
Process Development Scientist III

Process Development Scientist III

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Florence, KY

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Thermo Fisher Scientific rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 419 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

199th of 535 rated manufacturers


Job description

Work Schedule

Standard (Mon-Fri)

Environmental Conditions

Able to lift 40 lbs. without assistance, Adherence to all Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) Safety Standards, Laboratory Setting, Some degree of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) required (safety glasses, gowning, gloves, lab coat, ear plugs etc.), Strong Odors (chemical, lubricants, biological products etc.), Will work with hazardous/toxic materials

Job Description

This is an entry-level opportunity to support the Process R&D efforts at the Florence, SC facility.

As part of the Thermo Fisher Scientific team, you’ll discover meaningful work that makes a positive impact on a global scale. Join our colleagues in bringing our Mission to life every single day to enable our customers to make the world healthier, cleaner, and safer. We provide our global teams with the resources needed to achieve individual career goals while helping to take science a step beyond by developing solutions for some of the world’s toughest challenges, like protecting the environment, making sure our food is safe or helping find cures for cancer.

How will you make an impact?

  • Investigates, generates, and validates new methodologies used to manufacture pharmaceutical intermediates, and final products.
  • Participates in technical discussions with clients.
  • Engages in technology transfer and manufacturing support.
  • Develops remediation to address issues.

What will you do?

You will join a team of synthetic organic chemists to support manufacturing of pharmaceutical ingredients at the Florence, SC east site. Many of our products are already in the market serving patients. We work on a variety of projects for existing and new clients. At this position, you will perform hands-on experimentation and learn knowledge and skills for process development of pharmaceutical products. We have a fast-paced working environment while keeping a good work-and-life balance. We encourage employees to participate technical discussions.

  • Develop chemical processes to synthesize drug intermediates and APIs that meet or exceed the quality requirements from clients.
  • Collect process data through laboratory experiments with accurate, detailed documentation for process evaluation, development, and troubleshooting.
  • Record and analyze scientific data/observations in detail. Summarize and interpret process data to draw conclusions. Write updates/reports. Participate in discussions with colleagues and clients.
  • Proficient analytical knowledge for compound identification and structure elucidation is required including NMR, IR, HPLC, GC, and MS.
  • Draft and review Operating Instructions, Deviations, Change Controls, and Investigative documentation.
  • Provide timely technical support for scale-up production, quality and additional area needs.
  • Research industry practices and processes and apply to innovative development internally and for client products.
  • Handle project timelines and results.

Education:

  • PhD in Chemistry or commensurate experience

Experience:

  • 0-2 years of experience

Competencies

  • Good knowledge and understanding of chemistry and analytical instrumental technologies.
  • Good problem-solving skills and logical approach to solving scientific problems.
  • Proficiency with HPLC, GC, LC/MS and Dissolution techniques.
  • Good interpersonal and communication skills (both oral and written).

Physical Requirements

Position requires ordinary ambulatory skills and physical coordination sufficient to move about office locations; ability to stand, walk, stoop, kneel, crouch periodically for prolonged periods of time; manipulation (lift, carry, move) of light to medium weights of 10-35 pound pounds; arm, hand and finger dexterity, including ability to grasp and type for prolonged periods of time; visual acuity to use a keyboard, computer monitor, operate equipment, and read materials for prolonged periods of time; ability to sit, reach with hands and arms, talk, and hear for prolonged periods of time. Safety glasses, safety shoes, lab coat, latex or similar gloves, safety apron, organic respirator occasionally.


Why Join Us?
When you join Thermo Fisher Scientific, you become part of a global team that values passion, innovation, and a commitment to scientific excellence. You’ll work in an environment where collaboration and development are part of the everyday experience—and where your contributions truly make a difference.
Apply today to help us deliver tomorrow’s breakthroughs.


What Thermo Fisher Scientific employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom