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Entry Level Food Science Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Lab Technician

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$18.72 - $22/hr

General Purpose: This is the entry-level, non-certified laboratory technician position for ... Preferred: Associates or bachelor's degree in food or Dairy Science, Biology, Chemistry ...

General Purpose: This is the entry-level, non-certified laboratory technician position for ... Preferred: Associates or bachelor's degree in food or Dairy Science, Biology, Chemistry ...

Lab Technician

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$18.72 - $22/hr

General Purpose: This is the entry-level, non-certified laboratory technician position for ... Preferred: Associates or bachelor's degree in food or Dairy Science, Biology, Chemistry ...

Job Summary Laboratory Analyst III performs at the entry level under close supervision performing ... Perform job duties in a manner that follow food safety and quality guidelines including but not ...

Entry Level | Laboratory Technician Opportunity | Hiring Now ! This Laboratory Technician role ... Essential Skills * Bachelor's degree in Biology, Chemistry, or a related scientific field.

Entry Level Food Science information

See Tennessee salary details

$10

$20

$30

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

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level food science in Tennessee is $20.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $25.72 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 Tennessee? The most popular types of Food Science jobs in Tennessee are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Food Science jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Food Science jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Entry Level Food Science jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Entry Level Food Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Food Science job openings in Tennessee as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,637 per year, or $20.5 per hour.
Sewanee Dining Associate

Sewanee Dining Associate

University of the South

Sewanee, TN • On-site

$15/hr

Other

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Position Overview Primary Function: Join our team and play an important role in keeping Sewanee's dining areas running smoothly. This position focuses on serving our students, faculty, staff, and community, maintaining clean, organized work areas, including dishwashing and food service stations. You'll help ensure meals are served safely and efficiently, assist with basic food preparation like fruits, vegetables, salads, and sandwiches, and support the overall cleanliness and upkeep of the dining operation.

Your work helps create a welcoming and positive experience for everyone on campus. This position works with considerable independence and self-direction. Only the general direction and scope of the work to be accomplished are discussed with the supervisor.

Position Appointment Details: Career Band: NE3 Full-Time Position Description Typical Duties & Responsibilities: Assist management with all aspects of dining and catering operations. Ensure proper timing, quality, and consistency of dining and catering events, including moving tables, chairs, and setting up service areas. Maintain and properly operate dining and catering equipment, including knives, food processors, slicers, and dicers.

Follow and maintain food safety and sanitation standards (ServSafe). Support management in reducing food and supply waste. Prepare individual portions of salads, sandwiches, fruit cups, and similar items.

Assist with cold item production for salad bars, vegan stations, pizza, homeline, grill, wok, deli, and catering operations. Take and record food temperatures, maintaining accurate logs as directed. Set up dishwashing machines, fill tanks, and check chemical levels.

Load and operate dishwashing machines, then transport clean dishes, glasses, and flatware to proper stations. Set up garbage and compost bins; empty trash to the compactor when full. Sweep and mop floors in the dish room, dining areas, and serving stations.

Clean doors, walls, windows, and other assigned surfaces. Wash and maintain pots, pans, and other kitchen equipment using the three-compartment sink according to ServSafe, manufacturer, and TN Health Department standards. Clean and maintain dining room tables, condiment areas, and beverage stations, ensuring they are replenished as needed.

Perform other duties as assigned. Judgment Required: Prescribed, established procedures are primarily used to perform the essential functions of this position. Budgetary Responsibility: None Machines & Equipment Used: Equipment in an institutional kitchen Combi ovens, Chargrill, Fryer, Kettles, Food processors, Griddle, Hot hold and Cold hold, Induction cookers, Steam table lines, Propane grill, Dish machine, Tray return conveyor system, Beverage machines, Floor cleaning machine, Various knives, Cutting boards, Slicers and dicers.

Personal Interaction/Communication: Student Contact: Regular interaction with student diners and other members of the campus community, including guests and alumni Internal: Limited interaction External: Limited interaction Attributes of a Successful Candidate Education: Some high school coursework; High School Diploma or GED preferred. Experience: Entry-level position- previous food service experience is preferred. Job-Related Skills: Must be able to manage time effectively and work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.

Requires standing for long periods, bending, and performing repetitive hand movements. Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds independently and heavier items with assistance. Licenses & Certifications: ServSafe food handler certification must be obtained within six months of the hire date.

Supplemental Information Confidential Information: Related personnel information Working Environment: High volume kitchen, Remote catering event sites, Catering sites can be outdoor/indoor events in all types of weather, Heavy equipment, Cold storage, Hot storage, Sometimes slippery floors, Loading docks and truck beds, High-volume, fast-paced work environment Physical Requirements: Must be able to stand for extended periods of time, Must be able to walk for extended periods of time, Must be able to lift between 21-50 pounds (Medium work), Must be able to carry between 21-50 pounds (Medium work) Any additional requirements specific to this position: Dining Hall Closures: The dining hall periodically closes for scheduled shutdowns. Employees are expected to follow any modified schedules or assignments during these periods. Attendance and Time Tracking: Regular attendance is required, and all hours must be accurately recorded in the University's electronic timekeeping system.

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ The University of the South, familiarly known as "Sewanee," is home to a nationally recognized College of Arts and Sciences and a School of Theology. Sewanee is distinguished by its dedication to cultivate academic excellence, community values, and environmental stewardship that produces informed, self-aware, and participatory citizens for our democracy and servant-leaders for the world. Nestled on 13,000 acres atop Tennessee's Cumberland Plateau, the University offers both a uniquely beautiful setting and convenient access to nearby cities-Chattanooga, Nashville, and Huntsville.

The University is affiliated with the Episcopal Church and seeks to be a place where individuals from a variety of backgrounds and experiences find support, opportunity, and purpose. Support in the Hiring Process If you have questions about a position or need assistance filing an application, or if you are a person with a disability and would like to request an accommodation in the application and interview process, please contact Human Resources at 931.598.1381 or hr@sewanee.edu. Equal Employment Opportunity The University of the South is an equal-opportunity institution, dedicated to treating all applicants fairly and fostering a welcoming environment for employees and students alike.