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Food Lab Assistant Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

NCSU

Research Assistant - Machado Lab

Raleigh, NC

Machado , specializes in infectious disease transmission models , with expertise in food animal ... Lab Coordination - Assist with scheduling and maintaining Machado Lab activities, including ...

Duke University

Lab Research Analyst II

Durham, NC · On-site

We are particularly interested in creating new ways to measure and analyze food intake, which is ... Research Planning & Experimental Design * Assist in the planning, development, and implementation ...

Duke University

Lab Research Analyst II

Durham, NC · On-site

We are particularly interested in creating new ways to measure and analyze food intake, which is ... Research Planning & Experimental Design * Assist in the planning, development, and implementation ...

Oxford Veterinary Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Oxford, NC

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Role: Experienced Veterinary Assistant * Status: Full-time * Salary: Negotiable and based on ... Free/discounted lab work for all employee pets * Pet discounts on services and products * Pet food ...

Vetcor

Veterinary Assistant

Oxford, NC

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Role: Experienced Veterinary Assistant * Status: Full-time * Salary: Negotiable and based on ... Free/discounted lab work for all employee pets * Pet discounts on services and products * Pet food ...

Oxford Veterinary Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Oxford, NC · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Role: Experienced Veterinary Assistant * Status: Full-time * Salary: Negotiable and based on ... Free/discounted lab work for all employee pets * Pet discounts on services and products * Pet food ...

NCSU

Extension Assistant

Raleigh, NC

... producers of food, feed turf, biofuels and fiber in North Carolina, the nation and the world ... Manage seed sample flow for the lab which will include operating a Perten 9500 NIR, Perten falling ...

Hempie's

Shift Lead

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Flexible schedule * Free food & snacks * Free uniforms * Health insurance * Opportunity for ... Based in Raleigh, NC, we specialize in crafting lab-tested gummies infused with Delta-9, Delta-8, ...

Duke University

Research Technician III

Durham, NC · On-site

$17.50 - $24/hr

The David Lab at Duke University (www.ladlab.org) is recruiting a technician to join a team of ... We are particularly interested in creating new ways to measure and analyze food intake, which is ...

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All JobsFood Lab JobsFood Lab Assistant JobsFood Lab Assistant Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Food Lab Assistant information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$10

$19

$28

How much do food lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for food lab assistant in Raleigh, NC is $19.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $22.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

Food lab assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent; some positions prefer or require postsecondary education in food science, microbiology, or related fields. Basic knowledge of laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and the ability to follow safety protocols are important. Certifications in food safety or sanitation can be advantageous but are not always mandatory.

What are some common challenges a Food Lab Assistant might face during routine testing and how can they be addressed?

Food Lab Assistants often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict quality control standards while handling multiple samples and adhering to tight deadlines. Another common issue is managing cross-contamination risks, which requires careful attention to lab protocols and cleanliness. Effective communication with team members and supervisors is also crucial, especially when clarifying test procedures or reporting unusual findings. Staying organized, following standard operating procedures, and seeking guidance when uncertainties arise can help overcome these challenges and ensure accurate results.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Food Lab Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Food Lab Assistant, you need a background in food science or a related field, with knowledge of laboratory safety and basic analytical techniques. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, food testing methods, and data management systems is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to work well in a team are essential soft skills. These abilities ensure accurate testing, compliance with safety standards, and efficient support of food quality and research operations.

What are Food Lab Assistants?

Food Lab Assistants are professionals who support food scientists and technologists in research and quality control laboratories. They help prepare samples, conduct experiments, maintain laboratory equipment, and record data related to food safety, nutrition, and product development. Their work is essential in ensuring food products meet safety standards and regulatory requirements. Food Lab Assistants often work in food manufacturing companies, research institutions, or government agencies.

Is it easy to get a job with a food science degree?

Food Lab Assistants with a food science degree often find entry-level positions available, especially in food manufacturing, quality control, or research settings. Having relevant skills such as laboratory techniques, attention to detail, and certifications like HACCP can improve job prospects, but competition varies by location and industry demand.

What exactly does a lab assistant do?

A Food Lab Assistant supports food testing and quality control processes by preparing samples, operating laboratory equipment, and recording data. They ensure safety protocols are followed and may assist with experiments or inspections to ensure food products meet standards.

What degree do I need to be a lab assistant?

For a Food Lab Assistant position, a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. Some roles may prefer or require post-secondary education such as an associate's degree or coursework in food science, microbiology, or related fields. Relevant skills include attention to detail and familiarity with laboratory equipment and safety protocols.
What are popular job titles related to Food Lab Assistant jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Food Lab Assistant jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Food Lab Assistant jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Food Lab Assistant jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Food Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Food Lab Assistant job openings:
Food Lab Assistant jobs near you
Research Assistant - Machado Lab

Research Assistant - Machado Lab

NCSU

Raleigh, NC

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

North Carolina State University rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

408th of 555 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Posting Information
Posting Number PG193917EP Internal Recruitment No Working Title Research Assistant - Machado Lab Anticipated Hiring Range $50,000-$60,000 Work Schedule Monday - Friday 8:00am-5:00pm Job Location Raleigh, NC Department Department of Population Health and Pathobiology About the Department
The mission of the Department of Population Health and Pathobiology is to recruit, train, inspire, and graduate Doctors of Veterinary Medicine with exemplary knowledge, skill, and character. To maintain the intellectual and professional climate necessary to accomplish this mission, the department's faculty will advance veterinary medical science through innovative basic and applied research, inspired mentoring of students (undergraduate, professional, residents, and graduate), excellence in clinical and diagnostic services, and innovative extension and engagement activities.
North Carolina State University's College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) is a dynamic community whose members are dedicated to preparing veterinarians and veterinarian scientists while advancing animal and human health from the cellular level through entire ecosystems.
With its first class graduating in 1985, the CVM is one of the younger veterinary programs in the country. Despite its relative youth, the College has gained international recognition for its teaching, research, engagement, and patient care efforts and is ranked third among the nation's 28 colleges of veterinary medicine in the current U.S. News & World Report survey.
Located on 180 acres near downtown Raleigh, the College encompasses 20 buildings on the main Centennial Biomedical Campus. Instruction is in three departments: Clinical Sciences, Molecular Biomedical Sciences, and Population Health Pathobiology. In addition to the four-year Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree, there are programs leading to master's and doctoral degrees in several areas with numerous opportunities for specialization.
Wolfpack Perks and Benefits
As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being.

What we offer:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Retirement Programs
  • Disability Plans
  • Life Insurance
  • Accident Plan
  • Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs
  • 12 Holidays Each Year
  • Tuition and Academic Assistance
  • And so much more!
Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare benefits, Wellness & Recreation Membership, and Wellness Programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community. 
Disclaimer: Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered.
Essential Job Duties
Purpose of the Position
We are inviting applicants to apply for the Research Assistant role which will primarily support the Rapid Access Biosecurity (RABapp) systems team and research activities within the Machado Laboratory.

RABapp Overview
RABapp is a web-based system designed to assist livestock and poultry producers, along with animal health officials, in developing biosecurity plans, tracking disease transmission, and improving emergency preparedness for foreign animal disease (FAD) outbreaks.
RABapp operates as a consortium of academic researchers, swine companies, state animal health officials, and industry veterinarians working toward a shared goal: enhancing U.S. livestock and poultry industry preparedness for large-scale FAD emergencies. The system provides a repository for on-farm biosecurity plans, traceability of animal and vehicle movements, disease records, and disease transmission models.

Key functions of RABapp include:
  • Biosecurity Planning: Assists producers in developing biosecurity plans for swine, cattle, and poultry, ensuring alignment with national policies and guidelines such as the Secure Food Supply Plans and the National Poultry Improvement Plan. Plans are submitted for review by animal health officials, who approve or request revisions until they meet required standards.
  • Real-Time Traceability: Collects and integrates data on the movement of animals, semen, and vehicles, enabling rapid tracking of direct and indirect contacts crucial for responding to FAD outbreaks. RABapp also incorporates shared outbreak data, allowing producers and officials to monitor the spread of endemic diseases.
  • Disease Transmission Modeling: Utilizes biosecurity, movement, and outbreak data to develop farm-, barn-, and pen-level transmission models, supporting proactive disease control strategies.

About the Machado Laboratory
The Machado Laboratory, led by Associate Professor Dr. Machado, specializes in infectious disease transmission models, with expertise in food animal production epidemiology and the development of disease control strategies at multiple scales. The lab's research focuses on mathematical modeling of disease spread based on real-world population, animal, and vehicle movement data. Current projects address major livestock diseases, including:

  • African swine fever
  • Foot-and-mouth disease
  • Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV)
  • Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV)

Key Responsibilities
The individual in this position will coordinate the daily operations of RABapp, ensuring smooth program execution and effective collaboration with industry and research partners. Responsibilities include:
  1. Program Development & Implementation - Organize and lead workshops and hands-on training sessions.
  2. Staff Management - Supervise temporary staff in collecting, curating, and preparing biosecurity plans, including farm-enhanced biosecurity plans and farm maps.
  3. Data Organization - Manage datasets in multiple formats (e.g., .csv tables, .shp shapefiles, and Geodata databases).
  4. GIS Mapping - Develop GIS-based biosecurity maps in compliance with national guidelines and regulations.
  5. Stakeholder Engagement - Maintain regular communication with livestock and poultry industry representatives and state animal health officials across multiple states.
  6. System Development - Based on experience, contribute to developing new RABapp functionalities, including geospatial analytic tools.
  7. Lab Coordination - Assist with scheduling and maintaining Machado Lab activities, including educational and applied research efforts with industry partners.
  8. Research Collaboration - Participate in discussions on laboratory research results and collaborate with faculty, graduate students, and external stakeholders.
  9. Compliance & Data Management - Serve as the primary liaison for central campus compliance, overseeing reliance agreements, data sharing, and data transfers.
  10. Relationship Management - Foster strong relationships with the research team, collaborators, and other research administrators.
  11. Onboarding & Training - Oversee onboarding and core training for new staff, including NC State-required training and access to necessary resources.

This role requires strong project management, data analysis, and communication skills to facilitate effective collaboration between researchers, industry partners, and regulatory agencies. The successful candidate will play a key role in advancing biosecurity planning, disease surveillance, and emergency preparedness for the livestock and poultry industries.
Other Responsibilities
Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Minimum Education and Experience
Relevant post-Baccalaureate degree, or relevant Bachelor's degree plus 3 or more years of independent research experience, or substantive relevant independent experience and education. May require terminal degree and licensure.
Other Required Qualifications
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Strong attention to detail and organizational skills with a great work ethic.
  • Strong analytical skills and computer skills.
  • Accurate record-keeping and data management skills.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Degree in geospatial analytics, geospatial, management or related field
  • Experience in managing a group of individuals
  • Customer service background
  • Exceptional communication skills, including written and verbal
  • Ability to work independently, take initiative, and be comfortable making important decisions quickly.
  • Flexibility and ability to work in a deadline-driven and fast-paced working environment that has multiple moving parts
Required License(s) or Certification(s)
n/a
Valid NC Driver's License required No Commercial Driver's License required No
Recruitment Dates and Special Instructions
Job Open Date 01/21/2025 Anticipated Close Date Special Instructions to Applicants
Please include a cover letter, resume/CV, and contact information for professional references. 
Position Details
Position Number 00108727 Position Type EPS/SAAO Full Time Equivalent (FTE) (1.0 = 40 hours/week) 1.0 Appointment 12 Month Recurring Mandatory Designation - Adverse Weather Non Mandatory - Adverse Weather Mandatory Designation - Emergency Events Non Mandatory - Emergency Event Department ID 196001 - Department of Population Health and Pathobiology EEO
NC State University is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as an individual with a disability, or status as a protected veteran. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-515-3148 to speak with a representative at the Office of Equal Opportunity.
If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu.
Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.
NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.

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About North Carolina State University

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North Carolina State University (NCSU), located in Raleigh, NC, US, is a leading educational institution with a strong emphasis on research, academics, and public service. Established in 1887, NCSU operates in the education industry and endeavors to foster student success, and promote economic development by providing high-quality, affordable education, and conducting groundbreaking research across a variety of disciplines. With more than 100 majors, its academic offerings range from undergraduates to postgraduates along with doctoral studies - in various fields like engineering, natural resources, humanities, and social sciences. NCSU is firmly anchored on the core values of respect, responsibility, integrity, and innovation. Its mission is to create economic, societal, and intellectual prosperity for the people of North Carolina and the nation.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1887

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