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Entry Level Food Science Jobs in Lawrence, MA (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Food Science information

See Lawrence, MA salary details

$12

$23

$35

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

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level food science in Lawrence, MA is $23.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $29.76 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 popular job titles related to Entry Level Food Science jobs in Lawrence, MA? For Entry Level Food Science jobs in Lawrence, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Lawrence, MA are hiring for Entry Level Food Science jobs? Cities near Lawrence, MA 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 Lawrence, MA 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 $49,284 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Laboratory Technician III, Antibody Production & Characterization

Ginkgo Bioworks Inc.

Boston, MA • On-site

$52K - $74K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Our mission is to make biology easier to engineer. Ginkgo is constructing, editing, and redesigning the living world in order to answer the globe's growing challenges in health, energy, food, materials, and more. Our bioengineers make use of an in-house automated foundry for designing and building new organisms.
Laboratory Technician III, Antibody Production & Characterization
Boston, Massachusetts
Position Summary
We are looking for an enthusiastic and detail-oriented entry level technician to join our team. In this role, you will play a hands-on part in supporting our daily antibody production and characterization workflows using automation. This is a great entry-level opportunity for a recent graduate of a biotechnology certificate program to gain experience in a cutting-edge, automated laboratory environment. You will work closely with senior scientists and learn how to operate advanced robotic equipment.
Key Responsibilities
  • Antibody characterization: Execute on antibody developability assays such as thermostability, ELISA, liquid chromatography, etc. to support delivery of customer projects
  • Sample and Reagent Tracking: Keep careful, accurate records of samples, reagents, and data using our digital tracking systems.
  • Assist with Automation: Help set up, run, and clean automated liquid handling systems and robotic workstations under the guidance of senior team members.
  • Routine Assays: Perform basic biotechnology workflows (such as pipetting, liquid transfers, and basic sample preparation) following strict Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
  • Team Collaboration: Communicate clearly with team members about the status of daily tasks and any equipment needs.

Required Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or equivalent with a completion of a 1-year biotechnology certificate or training program (such as the Gloucester Maritime/Marine Genomics Academy or equivalent).
  • Hands-on familiarity with basic lab skills, including micropipetting, sterile technique, and basic calculations (e.g., making solutions).
  • Strong attention to detail and a commitment to following written protocols exactly.
  • Comfort using basic computer software (such as Excel or digital lab notebooks) to record data.
  • Ability to work well in a team environment and a strong desire to learn new laboratory skills.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Familiarity with or exposure to automated laboratory equipment or liquid handlers during your training program.
  • Passion for biotechnology and automated science!

The base salary range for this role is $52,400 min - $74,700. Actual pay within this range will depend on a candidate's skills, expertise, and experience. We also offer company stock awards, a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental & vision coverage, health spending accounts, voluntary benefits, leave of absence policies, 401(k) program with employer contribution, 8 paid holidays in addition to a full-week winter shutdown and unlimited Paid Time Off policy.
Ginkgo has implemented a return to office policy effective October 1, 2025. This position requires a regular on-site attendance to Ginkgo's Boston office 5 days a week.
It is the policy of Ginkgo Bioworks to provide equal employment opportunities to all employees, employment applicants, and EOE disability/vet.
Privacy Notice
I understand that I am applying for employment with Ginkgo Bioworks and am being asked to provide information in connection with my application. I further understand that Ginkgo gathers this information through a third-party service provider and that Ginkgo may also use other service providers to assist in the application process. Ginkgo may share my information with such third-party service providers in connection with my application and for the start of employment. Ginkgo will treat my information in accordance with Ginkgo's Privacy Policy. By submitting this job application, I am acknowledging that I have reviewed and agree to Ginkgo's Privacy Policy as well as the privacy policies of the third-party service providers used by Ginkgo's associated with the application process.

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