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Food Lab Tech Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Lab Tech I

Wasco, CA · On-site

$27/hr

Job Title QA LAB TECH I Department Laboratory Reports To Laboratory Technician Manger FLSA Status ... Math and report writing abilities. 2. Preferred Qualifications: • Bachelor's Degree in Food ...

MFG LAB TECH

Riverside, CA · On-site

$19.75 - $26.25/hr

Participate in programs to sustain compliance with Kroger Manufacturing Food Safety and Quality ... Minimum of two years previous quality assurance lab experience * Knowledge of food safety programs ...

Immediately reports any food safety or quality issues to management or other individual authorized to initiate action. DIRECT REPORTS This position is not responsible for direct reports.

Lab Tech I - Crescent City

Crescent City, CA · On-site

$22 - $29.25/hr

Immediately reports any food safety or quality issues to management or other individual authorized to initiate action. DIRECT REPORTS This position is not responsible for direct reports.

Cath Lab Rad Tech

Clovis, CA

$45.69 - $59.40/hr

Great food options with on-demand ordering Commitment to diversity and inclusion is a cornerstone ... We are looking for Cath Lab Rad Techs (IR Tech) to join our growing Clovis Community Cath Lab team!

Cath Lab Rad Tech

Clovis, CA · On-site

$48.61 - $61.86/hr

Great food options with on-demand ordering Commitment to diversity and inclusion is a cornerstone ... We are looking for Cath Lab Rad Techs (IR Tech) to join our growing Clovis Community Cath Lab team!

Cath Lab Rad Tech

Clovis, CA

$48.61 - $61.86/hr

Great food options with on-demand ordering Commitment to diversity and inclusion is a cornerstone ... We are looking for Cath Lab Rad Techs (IR Tech) to join our growing Clovis Community Cath Lab team!

Great food options with on-demand ordering Commitment to diversity and inclusion is a cornerstone ... We are looking for Cath Lab Rad Techs (IR Tech) to join our growing Clovis Community Cath Lab team!

Great food options with on-demand ordering * Free parking and electric charging Commitment to ... The Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory Radiologic Technologist 2 (Cath Lab Rad Tech 2) is a highly ...

Great food options with on-demand ordering * Free parking and electric charging Commitment to ... The Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory Radiologic Technologist 2 (Cath Lab Rad Tech 2) is a highly ...

Rad Tech, Cath Lab

Fresno, CA · On-site

$48.61 - $67.56/hr

Great food options with on-demand ordering * Free parking and electric charging Commitment to ... The Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory Radiologic Technologist 2 (Cath Lab Rad Tech 2) is a highly ...

Great food options with on-demand ordering * Free parking and electric charging Commitment to ... The Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory Radiologic Technologist 2 (Cath Lab Rad Tech 2) is a highly ...

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Showing results 1-20

Food Lab Tech information

See California salary details

$12

$22

$33

How much do food lab tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for food lab tech in California is $22.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $23.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do lab techs make?

Food Lab Technicians in the region typically earn an average annual salary ranging from $35,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the specific employer. Salaries may also vary based on the complexity of testing, work environment, and geographic location within the state.

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

Food Lab Technicians and other food science roles often require a degree in food science, microbiology, or related fields. Job availability depends on industry demand, experience, and certifications such as HACCP or GMP, but overall, a food science degree can improve employment prospects in food manufacturing, quality control, and research sectors.

What is the highest paying job in food technology?

The highest paying roles in food technology often include food scientists and food engineers working in research and development, quality assurance, or management positions. Senior-level positions, especially those requiring advanced degrees and specialized skills, tend to offer the highest salaries in the field.

What are Food Lab Techs?

Food Lab Technicians, or Food Lab Techs, are professionals who assist in the testing and analysis of food products to ensure safety, quality, and compliance with regulations. They typically work in laboratories within food manufacturing companies, government agencies, or research institutions. Their duties include preparing samples, conducting chemical and microbiological tests, recording data, and maintaining laboratory equipment. Food Lab Techs play a crucial role in preventing contamination and ensuring that food products meet industry standards before reaching consumers.

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

To thrive as a Food Lab Tech, you need a solid understanding of food science, laboratory techniques, and quality control, usually supported by a relevant associate or bachelor's degree. Familiarity with analytical instruments such as spectrophotometers, pH meters, and laboratory information management systems (LIMS) is typically required. Attention to detail, organization, and strong communication skills help ensure accurate data collection and effective teamwork. These skills are crucial for maintaining food safety, ensuring compliance with regulations, and delivering reliable results in a laboratory environment.

What are some common challenges faced by Food Lab Techs when conducting quality control tests?

Food Lab Techs often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict adherence to safety and cleanliness protocols while handling perishable samples. They must also ensure precise measurement and documentation, as even minor deviations can affect test results and product quality. Additionally, managing a high volume of samples and meeting tight deadlines can require strong organizational and multitasking skills. Collaboration with other lab staff and departments is essential to resolve discrepancies quickly and maintain consistent standards.

What is the difference between Food Lab Tech vs Food Quality Inspector?

AspectFood Lab TechFood Quality Inspector
CredentialsOften requires a degree in food science, microbiology, or related fieldTypically requires a high school diploma or associate degree, with certifications in food safety
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting, conducting tests and analyses on food samplesInspection sites, factories, or processing plants, monitoring food production processes
Employer & IndustryFood manufacturing companies, laboratories, research institutionsFood production facilities, regulatory agencies, quality assurance firms

While both roles focus on food safety and quality, Food Lab Techs primarily perform laboratory testing and analysis, whereas Food Quality Inspectors conduct on-site inspections to ensure compliance with safety standards. Both positions are essential for maintaining food safety but differ in their daily tasks and work environments.

What is the highest paying lab technician job?

The highest paying lab technician roles are often in specialized fields such as pharmaceutical, clinical, or industrial laboratories, with positions like pharmaceutical lab supervisors or quality control managers earning higher salaries. Advanced certifications, extensive experience, and expertise in specific testing methods can also lead to higher compensation for lab technicians.
What are popular job titles related to Food Lab Tech jobs in California? For Food Lab Tech jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Food Lab Tech jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Food Lab Tech jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Food Lab Tech jobs? Cities in California with the most Food Lab Tech job openings:
Infographic showing various Food Lab Tech job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 54% Full Time, 43% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,250 per year, or $22.2 per hour.
Lab Tech I

$27/hr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Title
QA LAB TECH I

Department
Laboratory

Reports To
Laboratory Technician Manger

FLSA Status
☐ Exempt
☒ Non-Exempt

Employment Type
☒ Full-Time
☐ Part-Time

Position Summary

Advance Mycotoxin Lab (AML) is a Food Chemistry Laboratory that is committed to public health and safety through accurate analysis of mycotoxins. Mycotoxins are naturally occurring toxic compounds produced by molds (fungi) that pose serious health risks to humans and animals. Responsible for analyzing products for moisture, salt and Mycotoxins

Essential Functions
• Plays a key role in conducting analytical testing, supporting research projects, and ensuring the quality and safety of food products

• Applies fundamental scientific principles to analyze commodities performing routine and specialized chemical analyses of food

• Prepare samples, reagents, and standards according to established protocols

• Operate and maintain laboratory instruments such as HPLC

• Document results accurately in laboratory notebooks and digital systems, ensuring compliance with regulatory and quality standards (e.g., FDA, ISO, USDA).

• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized laboratory environment, following all safety protocols

• Analyze food samples for salt, moisture and Mycotoxins

• Maintain accurate records of all testing and laboratory equipment.

• Notify the Technician II, Lab Supervisor, and Lab Manager of problems with equipment, analysis, samples, etc.

• Report all issues with PPE and unsafe work conditions to Lab Supervisor / Manager

• Additional responsibilities may be added.

Qualifications
Communication Requirements

  • Must effectively communicate verbally and in writing with co-workers, supervisors/managers, customers, and outside parties.
    Education and Experience

1. Minimum Qualifications: High school diploma. Computer experience is required. Math and report writing abilities.

2. Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Biology, Bio-Chemistry, Food Technology, Microbiology, or a related field is essential

• Practical Experience should include hands-on exposure to the work environment including internships and research during undergraduate studies, and/or prior work experience in a laboratory

• Proficiency in laboratory techniques, chemical principles, data analysis, and research methodologies is vital for success

• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to follow SOP

• Familiarity with Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and quality management systems

• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment
Authority and Approval Levels

•None
Physical Demands / ADA Functional Analysis Chart

•Ability to perform complex math problems.

•Ability to generate reports.

•Ability to stand, sit, and walk for 8–12 hour shifts.

•Ability to lift and carry 25–50 lb. boxes.

•Must be capable of following complex procedures.

Physical Requirement

Frequency

Essential Function?

Standing

☒ Frequently

☒ Yes

Walking

☒ Frequently

☒ Yes

Sitting

☒ Frequently

☒ Yes

Lifting 10 lbs.

☒ Frequently

☒ Yes

Lifting 25 lbs.

☒ Occasionally

☒ Yes

Lifting 50 lbs.

☒ Occasionally

☐ No

Carrying

☒ Occasionally

☒ Yes

Pushing/Pulling

☒ Occasionally

☐ No

Reaching Above Shoulder

☒ Occasionally

☐ No

Bending/Stooping

☒ Occasionally

☒ Yes

Twisting

☒ Occasionally

☐ No

Climbing

☒ Occasionally

☐ No

Kneeling/Crouching

☒ Occasionally

☐ No

Fine Hand Manipulation

☒ Constantly

☒ Yes

Use of Vision

☒ Constantly

☒ Yes

Hearing/Speaking

☒ Constantly

☒ Yes



Frequency Definitions

  • Occasionally: Up to 33% of the workday
  • Frequently: 34% to 66% of the workday
  • Constantly: 67% to 100% of the workday

Reasonable Accommodation Statement

Primex Farms, LLC complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), and all applicable state and federal laws. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position unless doing so would create an undue hardship. The Company engages in a timely, good-faith interactive process regarding accommodation requests.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Primex Farms, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

Acknowledgment

I have reviewed and understood the essential functions and requirements of this position.

Employee Name: __________________________

Employee Signature: _______________________Date: ___________________________________



2nd shift 1:00pm - 9:30pm