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Entry Level Food Technologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

TriCom Quest

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Machine Operator at Yakult USA - 1st / 2nd / 3rd shift

Fountain Valley, CA · On-site

$21.50 - $27.50/hr

Basic knowledge of food technology/science, HACCP, GMP * Basic machine operating skills ... entry level to executive leadership. Our mission is to connect employers with the right talent--and ...

Nova Analytic Labs

Lab Technologist

Portland, ME · On-site

Job Opportunity Nova Analytic Labs is seeking a highly motivated entry level scientist to join our ... food testing lab, or environmental testing lab. Benefits: * Health care with vision & dental.

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Entry Level Food Technologist information

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$49

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

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level food technologist in the United States is $29.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $34.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do you need to be a food technologist?

To become an entry-level food technologist, a bachelor's degree in food science, microbiology, or a related field is typically required. Strong knowledge of food safety standards, laboratory skills, and familiarity with food processing equipment are important. Certifications such as ServSafe or HACCP can also enhance job prospects.

What is the easiest entry-level tech job?

An entry-level food technologist is typically considered an accessible starting role in the food industry, often requiring a bachelor's degree in food science or related fields. The job involves basic laboratory work, quality control, and product testing, with opportunities to learn industry tools and certifications over time.

Is a food technologist degree worth it?

A degree in food technology provides foundational knowledge of food safety, quality control, and product development, which are essential skills for an entry-level food technologist. It can improve job prospects and earning potential, especially when combined with certifications or practical experience in food laboratories or manufacturing environments.

Where would you start as an entry-level job in the food industry?

An entry-level food technologist typically begins in roles such as laboratory assistant, quality control technician, or production assistant, where they gain hands-on experience with food safety, quality standards, and processing techniques. These positions often require basic knowledge of food science, attention to detail, and may involve working with testing equipment or following strict safety protocols.

What are typical challenges faced by entry level Food Technologists during their first year on the job?

Entry level Food Technologists often encounter challenges such as adapting to strict food safety regulations, mastering laboratory equipment, and learning to work efficiently in cross-functional teams. Navigating the fast-paced nature of product development while ensuring compliance with quality standards can be demanding. Additionally, new technologists may need to quickly develop strong communication skills to effectively collaborate with production, quality assurance, and marketing teams. With support from experienced colleagues and a willingness to learn, these challenges can be valuable growth opportunities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Food Technologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Food Technologist, you generally need a bachelor's degree in food science or a related field, along with a solid understanding of food safety, quality assurance, and product development. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, food analysis software, and knowledge of regulatory standards such as HACCP or FDA guidelines is often required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective teamwork skills help individuals excel in this role. These competencies ensure accurate testing, regulatory compliance, and the successful development of safe, high-quality food products.

What is the difference between Entry Level Food Technologist vs Food Quality Technician?

AspectEntry Level Food TechnologistFood Quality Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Food Science or related fieldBachelor's in Food Science, Food Technology, or related
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, production facilities, R&D settingsQuality control labs, production lines, inspection sites
Employer & Industry UsageFood manufacturing, R&D companies, regulatory agenciesFood manufacturing, quality assurance departments
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles in food scienceComparing quality assurance roles in food industry

Entry Level Food Technologists focus on product development, research, and ensuring food safety standards, often working in labs and R&D. Food Quality Technicians primarily perform quality checks, inspections, and compliance testing. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in daily responsibilities and focus areas within the food industry.

What does an entry level food technologist do?

An entry level food technologist assists in developing new food products, improving existing ones, and ensuring food safety and quality standards are met. They often conduct laboratory tests, analyze ingredients, and document results to help refine recipes and processes. Additionally, they may support senior technologists in conducting research, troubleshooting production issues, and maintaining compliance with regulatory requirements. This role typically involves working closely with quality assurance teams and production staff in food manufacturing settings.
More about Entry Level Food Technologist jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Food Technologist jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Food Technologist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Food Technologist jobs? The most popular types of Food Technologist jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Food Technologist jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Food Technologist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Food Technologist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Food Technologist jobs are:
Entry Level Food Technologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Food Technologist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,378 per year, or $30 per hour.

Food Quality Assurance Technician

DeLallo

Bridgeville, PA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Entry Level Quality Tech / Runner — 3 Saints Baking Company

Schedule: Monday through Friday
Shift: 3:30 PM–12:00 AM
Saturday availability may be required as needed

3 Saints Baking Company is growing and changing, and we are looking for a dependable, detail-oriented Entry Level Quality Tech / Runner to join our bakery production team.

Our bakery recently transitioned from a cookie bakery to an exciting new focaccia, toast, and specialty bakery manufacturing operation, creating new opportunities for people who want to learn, grow, and be part of a fast-paced food production environment.

Position Summary

The Entry Level Quality Tech / Runner will support the production and quality teams by helping ensure the production lines have the correct labels, containers, and supplies needed to keep operations running smoothly. This position will also assist with entry-level quality checks and daily production paperwork.

This position requires strong attention to detail, the ability to notice errors or inconsistencies, and a commitment to food quality and accuracy. Food production, bakery, packaging, restaurant, or other food-related experience is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

Keep labels, containers, and packaging supplies full and available for production lines
Run supplies to production areas as needed to help keep the operation moving efficiently
Assist with basic quality checks during production
Monitor products, labels, containers, and packaging for accuracy, quality, and consistency
Help ensure the correct labels, containers, and packaging materials are being used for each product
Watch for errors, missing information, incorrect labels, product issues, or packaging concerns
Enter required production and quality information into the computer
Complete daily production paperwork accurately and thoroughly
Report product, label, container, packaging, food safety, or quality concerns to a supervisor
Follow food safety, sanitation, GMP, and company procedures
Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area
Communicate with production, quality, and management team members
Support production lines and assist with other duties as needed

Qualifications

Entry-level quality candidates are welcome to apply
Food production, bakery, packaging, restaurant, kitchen, food service, or other food-related experience strongly preferred
Previous quality, packaging, warehouse, bakery, or manufacturing experience is helpful
Strong attention to detail is required
Ability to identify errors, inconsistencies, incorrect labels, or product concerns
Basic computer skills required for daily production paperwork
Dependable, punctual, and willing to learn
Ability to work Monday through Friday, 3:30 PM–12:00 AM
Ability to follow directions and complete tasks accurately
Ability to work in a fast-paced bakery manufacturing environment
Ability to stand, walk, bend, lift, move, and remain active throughout the shift
Good communication skills and willingness to work as part of a team
Saturday availability may be required as needed

Apply