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Entry Level Food Science Jobs in Atlanta, GA (NOW HIRING)

PH Envir Compl Specialist 2

Marietta, GA

$55K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... the entry level for the Environmental Health job series . Incumbents in the job may require ... Obtains and maintains valid swimming pool operator and food safety managers certifications External ...

New

... global life sciences and food and beverage industries. Our employees provide best-in-class ... The Entry-Level Process Engineer focuses on the design and engineering of manufacturing facility ...

... global life sciences and food and beverage industries. Our employees provide best-in-class ... The Entry-Level Process Engineer focuses on the design and engineering of manufacturing facility ...

Entry Level Food Science information

See Atlanta, GA salary details

$11

$21

$32

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

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level food science in Atlanta, GA is $21.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $27.26 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 Atlanta, GA?

The most popular types of Food Science jobs in Atlanta, GA are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Food Science jobs in Atlanta, GA?

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

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Food Science jobs in Atlanta, GA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Food Science jobs in Atlanta, GA are:

What cities near Atlanta, GA are hiring for Entry Level Food Science jobs?

Cities near Atlanta, GA with the most Entry Level Food Science job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Food Science job openings in Atlanta, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,175 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

EH COMPLIANCE SPECIALIST 1, 2, OR 3 - MARIETTA

Georgia Department of Public Health (GA)

Atlanta, GA • On-site

$46K - $55K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Description DO NOT APPLY ON THIS SITE, SEE INSTRUCTIONS BELOW TO APPLY Please visit: www.cdph-ess.com For other CDPH career opportunities, please visit: http://www.cobbanddouglaspublichealth.com/about-us/career-center/ Exceptional Benefits Include: 13 Paid Holidays 3 Weeks Annual Leave 3 Weeks Sick Leave Flexibility within or core working hours of M- F 8 am - 5 pm Hybrid teleworking options for eligible positions Employer 401K match Student Loan Repayment Employee Education Reimbursement Payroll Deductible Health Benefits Pension Plan Flexible Spending Accounts Worksite Wellness Activities Employee Recognition Program Diverse Workforce Opportunities for Advancement Job Responsibilities Purpose of the Position: Under direct supervision and in a training status, learns to perform environmental health inspections of food service establishments, swimming pools, tourist accommodations, on-site sewage management systems, mobile home parks, and body art studios for the Public Health Department and recommends monitoring and corrective/enforcement actions as needed. Investigates complaints and provides environmental health education and technical assistance to the general public, regulated community, and officials. Assists in the implementation of a countywide program for compliance monitoring, enforcement, and corrective action in conjunction with environmental health laws, rules, and regulations

May serve as a compliance officer and liaison between the Public Health agency, facilities, municipalities, institutions, organizations, and county and state agencies. Learns to interpret Local, State, and Federal environmental health laws and regulations This is the entry level for the Environmental Health job series. Incumbents in the job may require additional training or experience to attain full proficiency in some or all of the job responsibilities This position works to promote and protect the health and safety of the residents of Cobb and Douglas Counties.

Essential Functions, included but not limited to: In the event of an emergency situation requiring activation of Public Health, all Cobb & Douglas Public Health staff will be expected to perform duties and responsibilities as assigned Performs Job responsibilities with minimal supervision Serves as organization resource in assigned areas. Obtains and maintains valid swimming pool operator and food safety managers certifications Minimum Qualifications External candidates: will be hired as EHS 1 OR EHS 2; based on education and/or experience Internal candidates: are eligible for a lateral transfer as a EHS 2 or EHS 3; must be currently working as an Environmental Health Specialist Minimum Qualifications ECS1/EHS1: Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, which includes the completion of 27 semester or 40 quarter hours in laboratory sciences (e.g., chemistry, biology, geology, physics, etc.). $46,632.33 | Pay Grade I Minimum Qualifications ECS2/EHS2:Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, which includes the completion of 27 semester or 40 quarter hours in laboratory sciences (e.g., chemistry, biology, geology, physics, etc.) and one (1) year of experience at the lower level PH Envir Compl Specialist 1 (RCP120) or equivalent position

$50,618.52 | Pay Grade J Internal Only: EHS 3 Minimum: Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, which includes the completion of 27 semester or 40 quarter hours in laboratory sciences (e.g., chemistry, biology, geology, physics, etc.) and one (1) year of experience at the lower-level PH Envir Compl Specialist 2 (RCP121) or equivalent position. $55,003.33 | Pay Grade K *** Current state employees' salary will be subject to State Personnel Board rule provisions. You may qualify for a higher salary based on your current pay grade and the pay grade of the position

If you have questions regarding salary, please do not hesitate to contact HR*** Preferred Qualifications: Master's degree in environmental health, public health, or a laboratory science. Current Registered Environmental Health Specialist credential. Current Level 1 or Level 2 On-site Sewage Management credential.

Current standardization for food service inspections. Current Certified Food Safety Manager and Trained Pool Operator certifications. Communication and customer service skills Work Conditions & Physical Demands: A combination of office and field work.

Office work entails data entry, filing, and customer interaction both in-person and via phone. Field work involves inspections of facilities and requires sufficient mobility to move through workspaces and view areas under shelving and equipment. Swimming pool inspections primarily take place outdoors during warm weather months (April - September).

Lifting of items during normal work should not exceed 25 pounds. Remote Work: -Employees authorized for remote/hybrid work must reside and perform their job duties exclusively within the state of Georgia. Remote/hybrid work arrangements outside the state are not permitted under current policy.

Applications Accepted: *THIS POSITION WILL REMAIN OPEN UNTIL FILLED AND IS SUBJECT TO CLOSE AT ANY TIME ONCE A SATISFACTORY APPLICANT POOL HAS BEEN IDENTIFIED Cobb and Douglas Public Health a nationally accredited health department, headquartered in Marietta, Georgia since 1920 promotes and protects the health and safety of the residents of Cobb and Douglas counties in partnership with several other agencies. CDPH is an equal opportunity employer, and does not discriminate based on age, genetics, pregnancy, gender, gender identity or expression, color, disability, national origin, sexual orientation, political affiliation, race or religion. TO APPLY: In order to successfully apply for a position; the hiring agency requires interested applicants to complete the Cobb & Douglas Public Health's Online Employment Application.

This job application can be found at: www.cdph-ess.com. Click on "Employment Opportunities" and locate this position, click "Apply" and begin your application process. Additional Information DO NOT APPLY ON THIS SITE, SEE INSTRUCTIONS BELOW TO APPLY Please visit: www.cdph-ess.com For other CDPH career opportunities, please visit: http://www.cobbanddouglaspublichealth.com/about-us/career-center/