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Food Lab Tech Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Certified Group

Part Time Microbiology Lab Tech

Turlock, CA · On-site

$21 - $26.25/hr

JOB SUMMARY Prepare samples for analytical and microbiological testing of food products, ingredients, and environmentals. The role is responsible for the application of approved microbiological ...

Tropicale Foods

Food Technologist

Oakland, CA

$75K - $85K/yr

This role is 100% onsite in the San Leandro, CA lab. Key Responsibilities: * Laboratory Maintenance ... Bachelor's degree in Food science, Food Technology, Nutrition, or a related field (master's degree ...

Community Health System

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!

Community Health System

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!

Community Health System

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!

Community Health System

Cath Lab Rad Tech

Clovis, CA · On-site

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!

Community Health System

Rad Tech, Cath Lab

Fresno, CA

$50.80 - $64.64/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 ...

Community Health System

Rad Tech, Cath Lab

Fresno, CA · On-site

$50.80 - $64.64/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 ...

Community Health System

Rad Tech, Cath Lab

Fresno, CA · On-site

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 ...

Community Health System

Rad Tech, Cath Lab

Fresno, CA

$50.80 - $64.64/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 ...

Tropicale Foods, LLC

Food Technologist

Oakland, CA · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

This role is 100% onsite in the San Leandro, CA lab. Key Responsibilities: * Laboratory Maintenance ... Bachelor's degree in Food science, Food Technology, Nutrition, or a related field (master's degree ...

Community Health System

Rad Tech, Cath Lab

Clovis, CA

$48.61 - $67.56/hr

Great food options with on-demand ordering * Free parking and electric charging Commitment to ... Annual demonstration of proficient cath lab radiologic technologist proficiency required

Community Health System

Rad Tech, Cath Lab

Clovis, CA

$48.61 - $67.56/hr

Great food options with on-demand ordering * Free parking and electric charging Commitment to ... Annual demonstration of proficient cath lab radiologic technologist proficiency required

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsFood Lab Tech JobsFood Lab Tech Jobs in California

Food Lab Tech information

See California salary details

$12

$22

$33

How much do food lab tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 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.

What is a food lab tech?

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?

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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 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.

Part Time Microbiology Lab Tech

Turlock, CA • On-site

Certified Group
See more jobs at Certified Groupexternal

$19 - $21/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Certified Group is committed to partnering with customers to deliver innovative scientific solutions and expertise – So The World Can Trust In What It Consumes™. Our network of 30+ North American and European laboratories serves the food & beverage, dietary supplements, cosmetics, OTC, tobacco/nicotine, cannabis, and hemp industries.

Our Brands

Certified Group is comprised of a set of specialized brands that collectively deliver laboratory testing, regulatory consulting, and certification & audit services across highly regulated industries:

  • Certified Laboratories – Provides comprehensive analytical and microbiological testing, primarily supporting food, beverage, cosmetics, OTC, and dietary supplement industries.
  • Food Safety Net Services (FSNS) – A leading network of ISO-accredited laboratories across North America, focused on food safety testing, operational support, and technical services for the food industry.
  • Labstat – A global leader in contract research and testing for nicotine, tobacco, cannabis, hemp, and next-generation products, with deep expertise in analytical chemistry and toxicology.
  • EAS Consulting Group – A regulatory consulting firm offering expert guidance, training, and auditing support across FDA, USDA, and other regulated sectors, powered by a large network of independent advisors.
  • FSNS Certification & Audit – Provides accredited third-party auditing and certification services, including food safety, animal welfare, and GMP programs.

We are currently looking for a Microbiology Technician to join our growing team!

JOB SUMMARY

Prepare samples for analytical and microbiological testing of food products, ingredients, and environmentals. The role is responsible for the application of approved microbiological techniques and methodologies used in analytical testing.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Prepare samples for indicator organisms, pathogens, and chemistries
  • Apply aseptic techniques in daily workload
  • Maintain media and reagents as needed for daily microbiological testing
  • Inventory and report expendable supplies/materials needed for testing requirements
  • Provide routine preventive maintenance by daily cleaning, sanitizing, and trash disposal
  • Perform quality control monitoring by taking incubator temperatures, inoculating control organisms, running media controls, etc.
  • Independently pursue an assigned series of processes, procedures, or techniques in accordance with FSNS policies/procedures and customer requirements
  • Maintain laboratory condition, to include equipment, supplies, quality assurance programs, and accurate records throughout all procedures
  • Perform all activities in a neat, safe, hygienic, and efficient manner
  • Share information in an open, and timely manner
  • Assisting with managing priorities and schedule such that individual goals as well as team goals are achieved with encouraged participation in the Food Safety Net Services Team
  • Responsible for the safety of oneself and others working within their area
  • Responsible for the completion of required training

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

  • High School diploma or GED
  • Associate degree in Life Science or two years of laboratory experience, preferred
  • Broad knowledge of concepts, practices, and procedures of a food testing laboratory
  • Ability to travel is preferred
  • Or equivalent combination of education and experience

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

  • Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard, mouse and to handle other communications/computer components
  • Potential exposure to odors, fumes, airborne particles, hazardous chemicals, and microbiological pathogens
  • Noise level varies from quiet to loud
  • Temperature varies from hot to cold
  • Interactive and fast-paced team oriented tasks
  • Occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
  • Color vision and depth perception

Days: Monday, Friday, Saturday

Hours: 3pm -11:30pm

The compensation details provided below reflect the expected pay range for this role, based on the selected compensation structure and applicable guidelines. Actual pay within this range may vary depending on factors such as experience, skills, qualifications, and geographic location. Additional components of total rewards—such as bonuses, benefits, or incentives—may also apply where applicable.

 
Salary Range for Pay Transparency
$19—$21 USD

By applying, you acknowledge that Certified Group will process your personal information for recruitment and hiring purposes in accordance with our Applicant Privacy Policy. California residents may review additional information about how we collect and use personal information, including retention and rights, in our California Notice at Collection. To view our Privacy Policy, click the link here: Certified Group Privacy Policy

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and make employment decisions without regard to protected characteristics under applicable law.