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Entry Level Food Science Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Chicago Meat Authority, Inc.

Sales Specialist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50K - $60K/yr

This entry-level position offers hands-on learning and the opportunity to gain valuable industry ... Bachelor's degree in Food Science or Agriculture preferred; motivated individuals eager to launch a ...

KeHE Distributors, LLC

Analyst, HRIS

Naperville, IL

$65K - $95K/yr

KeHE-a natural, organic, specialty and fresh food distributor-is all about "good" and is growing ... In this entry-level role, the analyst will support, learn, and maintain HR information systems ...

Trinity Health

Clinical Dietitian

Melrose Park, IL · On-site

$24.33 - $37.73/hr

... food and nutrition department policies and local regulatory standards (IDPH, TJC, CMS, etc ... An entry level position to a professional career progression. Make a meaningful difference in ...

AMP Agency

Paid Search Coordinator

Chicago, IL · On-site

This is an entry-level position for someone who has a curious nature, a strong desire to learn and ... We're a team of creative minds, digital strategists, social and behavioral scientists and media ...

E80 GROUP S.P.A.

LGV CS Programmer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

... beverage, food, tissue, and other sectors. The main systems produced by E80 Group include ... Degree or diploma in Computer Science, Automation Engineering, Mechatronics, Robotics, or related ...

All JobsFood Science JobsEntry Level Food Science JobsEntry Level Food Science Jobs in Chicago, IL

Entry Level Food Science information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$23

$34

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

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level food science in Chicago, IL is $23.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.88 and $29.23 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 Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Food Science jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Food Science jobs in Chicago, IL? For Entry Level Food Science jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Food Science jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Food Science jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Entry Level Food Science jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL 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 Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,431 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

Laboratory Technician - Entry Level Welcome!

Motive Companies

Downers Grove, IL

$19 - $25.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Laboratory Technician
Confidential Scientific Testing Laboratory
Downers Grove, IL
Full-Time | 100% Onsite
Launch Your Career in a Professional Laboratory Environment

Are you someone who enjoys staying organized, working with your hands, and being part of a team that delivers high-quality scientific work?
A leading scientific testing laboratory is looking for a dependable, detail-oriented Laboratory Technician to support daily laboratory operations. This is an excellent opportunity for someone interested in laboratory science, manufacturing, quality control, or technical operations who wants to gain hands-on experience in a professional laboratory environment.
Every day is different, and your work will directly support chemists and laboratory professionals conducting analytical testing on products used across industries including pharmaceuticals, food, cosmetics, paints, plastics, metals, and consumer products.

What You'll Do
As a Laboratory Technician, you'll help keep the laboratory operating safely, efficiently, and accurately by:

Supporting laboratory organization and cleanliness to maintain a safe, compliant work environment.
Assisting chemists with stock solution preparation and laboratory support activities.
Organizing, storing, retrieving, and disposing of laboratory samples.
Monitoring laboratory equipment through daily and scheduled quality checks.
Assisting with inventory management for laboratory supplies, chemicals, and reference materials.
Receiving and labeling incoming laboratory materials.
Coordinating sample returns to customers when required.
Maintaining laboratory documentation, project files, and inventory records.
Supporting continuous laboratory operations by ensuring supplies and equipment are organized and readily available.

*** Candidates must be US Citizens OR Green Card Holder ***

We're Looking For Someone Who
Has exceptional attention to detail.
Enjoys working in a structured, process-driven environment.
Takes pride in staying organized and maintaining a clean workspace.
Is dependable, self-motivated, and eager to learn.
Can manage multiple tasks while maintaining accuracy.
Works well independently and as part of a collaborative team.
Is comfortable performing physically active work throughout the day.

Qualifications
Experience in a laboratory, manufacturing, warehouse, quality control, production, food manufacturing, pharmaceutical, or technical environment is a plus, but not required.
Basic Microsoft Office skills (Word and Excel).
Strong organizational and time management skills.
Ability to safely lift up to 40 pounds.
Commitment to quality, safety, and continuous improvement.

Great Backgrounds for This Role
We encourage applicants with experience in:

Laboratory Support
Manufacturing
Quality Control
Production
Warehouse Operations
Chemical Processing
Food Manufacturing
Medical Device Manufacturing
Pharmaceutical Production
Environmental Services
Technical Operations
Recent graduates in biology, chemistry, environmental science, food science, or other STEM disciplines are also encouraged to apply.

Why Join Us?

This is an opportunity to build valuable laboratory experience with a respected scientific testing organization. You'll work alongside experienced scientists and laboratory professionals while gaining exposure to analytical testing, laboratory operations, inventory management, and quality systems.
If you're looking for a stable, hands-on role where your work supports meaningful scientific testing and contributes to a high-performing team, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply today and take the next step in your laboratory career.

$46,000.00 (DOE)


Education:Employment Type: FULL_TIME

Apply