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Food Lab Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Lab Technician, Sensory

Torrance, CA

$20 - $26.50/hr

A Senior Sensory Lab Technician leads the sensory lab in organizing, preparing, and executing ... food safety to prevent cross-contamination. Education • High school graduate and/or Associate ...

Quality Lab Technician Pay: $27.00 per hour Shift & Working Hours: 1st Shift; 6:00 AM to 2:30 PM ... food. We have been named a Top Workplace by Indeed and LinkedIn, and to the TIME 100 Most ...

Sr. Lab Technician, Sensory

Torrance, CA

$20 - $26.50/hr

A Senior Sensory Lab Technician leads the sensory lab in organizing, preparing, and executing ... Ability to prepare samples while maintaining hygiene and food safety to prevent cross-contamination.

An interest and passion for food and hospitality is a big plus! Part-time position 3 shifts per ... Based in Los Angeles, Culinary Lab creates, owns and operators a portfolio of restaurants. We also ...

Reservationist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$18.25 - $24/hr

An interest and passion for food and hospitality is a big plus! Part-time position 3 shifts per ... Based in Los Angeles, Culinary Lab creates, owns and operators a portfolio of restaurants We also ...

Lab Technician I

Manteca, CA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

We play an integral role in food and product safety for industry-leading producers, as well as family-run operations much like our own. Our lab location in Manteca, CA is hiring full-time Food ...

The R&D Food Technologist is a salaried position based in City of Industry, CA reporting to the R&D ... Maintain orderly records of lab documentation in electronic formats, company portals (Safety Chain ...

The R&D Food Technologist is a salaried position based in City of Industry, CA reporting to the R&D ... Maintain orderly records of lab documentation in electronic formats, company portals (Safety Chain ...

Food Safety Specialist

Mariposa, CA · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

The Food Safety Specialist supports the execution and continuous improvement of food safety and ... Coordinate external lab submissions as and when needed. * Execute designed validation study ...

$19.51/hr

Quality Assurance Lab Technician - 2nd Shift Location: March Air Reserve Base, CA 48081 Schedule ... Monitoring CCP records and documenting food safety issues * Preparing for inspections and assisting ...

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!

The R&D Food Technologist is a salaried position based in City of Industry, CA reporting to the R&D ... Maintain orderly records of lab documentation in electronic formats, company portals (Safety Chain ...

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!

Showing results 41-60

Food Lab information

See California salary details

$9

$24

$44

How much do food lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for food lab in California is $24.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $27.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Food Lab vs Food Scientist?

AspectFood LabFood Scientist
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in food science, chemistry, or related fieldRequires a degree in food science, chemistry, or related field; often advanced degrees for research roles
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, food production facilities, testing centersResearch labs, food manufacturing companies, academic institutions
Employer & Industry UsageFood companies, testing labs, quality assuranceFood industry R&D, academia, government agencies

Food Lab roles focus on testing, quality control, and product development in practical settings, while Food Scientists often engage in research, product innovation, and scientific analysis. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a food lab technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Food Lab Technician, you need a solid background in food science, chemistry, or microbiology, often supported by a relevant degree or laboratory certification. Familiarity with lab equipment, quality control systems, and safety regulations such as HACCP or ISO standards is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork set standout professionals apart in this role. These skills are crucial for ensuring food safety, maintaining product quality, and supporting regulatory compliance in food production environments.

What is a food lab?

A food lab is a specialized facility where food products are tested, analyzed, and developed to ensure safety, quality, and compliance with regulations. Food labs conduct a variety of tests, such as checking for contaminants, nutritional content, shelf life, and sensory qualities. They play a crucial role in supporting food manufacturers, researchers, and regulatory agencies to maintain food safety standards and innovate new products.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in a food lab, and how can they be managed?

Professionals in a food lab often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict safety and sanitation standards, managing tight deadlines for product testing, and adapting to rapidly changing regulatory requirements. Collaboration across departments—such as quality assurance, research and development, and production—is essential to ensure accurate results and product safety. Staying organized, communicating clearly with team members, and keeping up-to-date with current food safety protocols can help mitigate these challenges and support a productive work environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Food Lab jobs in California?

The most popular types of Food Lab jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Food Lab jobs in California?

For Food Lab jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Food Lab jobs?

Cities in California with the most Food Lab job openings:

Infographic showing various Food Lab job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,829 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Sr. Lab Technician, Sensory

Herbalife

Torrance, CA

$20 - $26.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

THE ROLE:

Step into a pivotal role where your expertise shapes the products consumers love.


A Senior Sensory Lab Technician leads the sensory lab in organizing, preparing, and executing sensory tests, including
tasks like test execution and planning meetings, test preparation/logistics checklists, data collection, analysis, and drafting
reports. They work on-site to prepare samples, manage panelist schedules, and ensure the lab is well-maintained and
stocked with necessary supplies. Basic requirements for the role include knowledge of sensory evaluation methods,
familiarity with GLP/ASTM standards, proficiency in data collection and analysis, and strong organizational and
communication skills. Their work is essential for understanding consumer preferences and improving product quality. This is your opportunity to be at the heart of product innovation.
HOW YOU WOULD CONTRIBUTE:

As a key player in our sensory team, you will make a direct and meaningful impact by:

  • Organize, prepare, and administer product tastings/acceptance/discrimination testing onsite and off-site.
  • Manage the Ticketing System for test requests, ensuring all information is complete and accurate, including but not
    limited to preparation methods and sample details, to maintain the end user sensory experience of products.
  • Independently coordinate with Sensory Scientist to execute sensory testing following the provided test design
    specifications.
  • Ensure complete and detailed information is entered into Sensory Software (e.g. RedJade) for each test.
  • Create draft sensory reports including test results and statistical evaluations for Sensory Scientist review.
  • Train, follow, and provide guidance on GLP/ASTM standards and methods.
  • Maintain product library, sensory reference samples, and adequate stock of lab supplies.
  • Record all activities in a document or laboratory notebook and provide information for reports or metrics.
  • Clean, maintain, and organize laboratory workspace(s) and lab equipment to ensure safe, accurate, and operable
    conditions.
  • Perform other related duties as needed.


WHAT'S SPECIAL ABOUT THE TEAM:


Our sensory team is a close-knit group that thrives on collaboration and mutual respect. Sensory scientists and
technicians work together closely, with scientists designing tests and analyzing data, while technicians prepare samples
and manage test execution. This collaboration ensures that sensory evaluations are thorough and accurate. The team's
dynamic environment fosters open communication and shared goals, driving innovative solutions. The function of our
sensory lab team is crucial to the company's success, as their work directly impacts product quality and consumer
satisfaction, ultimately contributing to the company's competitive edge and market success.

Here, your contributions are seen, valued, and celebrated.


SKILLS AND BACKGROUND REQUIRED TO BE SUCCESSFUL

We're looking for a driven, detail-oriented professional who brings:


•3-5 years of relevant experience
•Ability to prioritize, manage time, and multi-task independently based on business needs, ensuring tasks are delivered
timely, accurately, and organized.
•Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to keep key individuals properly informed of activities.
•Experience with sensory laboratory responsibilities, including sample preparation, test execution, and general lab
maintenance.
•Proficiency in managing and translating data using MS Office (Excel, Word, Outlook), Agile, and LIMS.
•Self-directed in general administrative tasks such as shipping, test submission review, and tracking.
•Ability to prepare samples while maintaining hygiene and food safety to prevent cross-contamination.


Education


•High school graduate and/or Associate degree.
•Bachelor's degree in a Scientific discipline (Preferred)

If you are passionate about the science behind great products and want to grow within a team that values your expertise, we encourage you to apply — we would love to hear from you.

#LI-NP1


Herbalife offers a variety of benefits to eligible employees in the U.S. (limited to the 50 States and the District of Columbia), which includes Group Health Programs, other Voluntary Benefit Programs, and Paid Time Off. Group Health Programs include Medical, Dental, Vision, Health Savings Account (HSA), Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), Basic Life/AD&D; Short-Term and Long-Term Disability, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Other Voluntary Benefit Programs include a 401(k) plan, Wellness Incentive Program, Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP), Supplemental Life/Critical Illness/Hospitalization/Accident Insurance, and Pet Insurance. Paid time off includes Company-observed U.S. Holidays, Floating Holidays, Vacation, Sick Time, a Volunteer Program, Paid Maternity and Paternity Leave, Bereavement Leave, Personal Leave and time off for voting.