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Food Science Lab Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Astrix Inc

R&D Manager- Beverages

Pacoima, CA · On-site

$45 - $56/hr

... in food science and a passion for developing innovative flavor and beverage solutions. The ideal candidate will supervise a team of chemists and lab technicians while ensuring all products meet ...

twg

Seasonal Lab Technician - Soledad

Soledad, CA

$23.50/hr

S. in Enology, Chemistry, Food Science, or related field preferred but not required. * Previous winery experience desired but we will consider training the right person. * Good working and ...

Vie Del

Laboratory Technician

Fresno, CA · On-site

$18.75 - $25/hr

... Food Science, Chemistry, Microbiology or related field preferred; or a minimum of two years experience in wine or food lab and two (2) years related college work. Language Skills Ability to read ...

Kevin's Natural Foods

Food Safety Specialist

Mariposa, CA · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Coordinate external lab submissions as and when needed. * Execute designed validation study ... Bachelor's Degree in Food Science, Microbiology or a related field * Self-motivated with proven ...

Vie Del

Laboratory Technician

Fresno, CA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

... Food Science, Chemistry, Microbiology or related field preferred; or a minimum of two years experience in wine or food lab and two (2) years related college work. Language Skills Ability to read ...

MM International

QA Laboratory Technician

Commerce, CA · On-site

$20.25 - $25.50/hr

... Food Science, Biology, Microbiology,​ or related science) or equivalent experience (Minimum 2 ... Lab Test Equipment/Maintenance. * Ability to lift 50lbs. * Time Management * Quick to learn new ...

New

Nura

R&D Food Scientist

Irvine, CA · On-site

... lab can meet food safety compliance requirements when making samples and prototypes Ideal Candidate: * The ideal candidate holds a Master's degree in Food Science, Nutritional Science, Chemistry ...

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Food Science Lab information

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How much do food science lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for food science lab in California is $22.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $27.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Food Science Lab vs Food Technologist?

AspectFood Science LabFood Technologist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Food Science or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Food Science, Food Technology, or related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting, conducting experiments and quality testsProduction facilities, overseeing food processing and product development
Industry UsageResearch, quality control, product testingProduct development, manufacturing, quality assurance

Food Science Lab roles focus on laboratory research, testing, and quality analysis, while Food Technologists work in production environments, developing and improving food products. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often collaborate within the food industry, but their daily tasks and work settings differ.

What is a food science lab?

A Food Science Lab is a specialized facility where scientists and technicians study the physical, chemical, and microbiological properties of food. These labs are used to develop new food products, improve food safety, test quality, and analyze nutritional content. Food Science Labs play a key role in ensuring that the food we eat is safe, nutritious, and meets regulatory standards. They use advanced equipment and techniques to conduct experiments and support the food industry.

What skills and qualifications are needed to work in a food science lab?

To thrive as a Food Science Lab Technician, you need a solid background in chemistry, biology, and food safety, often supported by a degree in food science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, analytical testing methods, and safety protocols—along with certifications like HACCP—are commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring accurate testing, regulatory compliance, and the consistent quality of food products.

What are typical challenges faced when working in a food science lab?

Working in a Food Science Lab often involves balancing multiple projects with tight deadlines, such as product testing, quality analysis, and research experiments. Professionals must adapt to frequently changing protocols and meticulously document results to ensure accuracy and compliance with food safety regulations. Additionally, collaboration with cross-functional teams—like product development, quality assurance, and regulatory affairs—is essential, requiring strong communication and teamwork skills. Staying current with new technologies and industry standards can also be an ongoing challenge but is key to career growth in this field.

What kind of job can I get with a food science degree?

A food science degree can lead to roles such as food scientist, quality assurance manager, product development specialist, or food safety auditor. These jobs typically involve laboratory work, product testing, and ensuring compliance with safety standards, often requiring knowledge of food chemistry, microbiology, and relevant certifications.

Where do food scientists get paid the most?

Food scientists tend to earn the highest salaries in regions with a strong food manufacturing industry, such as certain states or metropolitan areas known for food production and research. Salaries are also influenced by experience, education, and certifications, with those working in private industry or at large corporations generally earning more than those in academia or government roles.

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

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

What job categories do people searching Food Science Lab jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Food Science Lab jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Food Science Lab jobs?

Cities in California with the most Food Science Lab job openings:

Food Science Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Science Lab job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,361 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Wine Lab Technician Level 1 (Temporary)

Gusmer Enterprises

Napa, CA

$22 - $26/hr

Temporary

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Wine Lab Technician Level 1 (Temporary)

Location: Onsite Napa California

Reports To: Director of Product Support & Development-Fermentation

Employment Status: Full-Time, Temporary

Travel: None

Work Schedule: Monday through Friday 8:30 am to 5:00 pm overtime and weekends as required.

Pay: $22.00 to $26.00/hour

Benefits: This is a temporary role benefits are not available though California-mandated sick leave will be provided.

Position Overview: Are you interested in applying science to the world of winemaking? The Wine Laboratory Technician Level 1 (Temporary), supports Gusmer's mission to be the "Go to Provider" of analytical services for the wine industry while gaining valuable hands-on laboratory experience. Works under the guidance of experienced team members, to perform routine wine testing, maintain laboratory quality and safety standards, and help communicate accurate, timely results that support wineries and industry professionals. The Wine Laboratory Technician Level 1 (Temporary) is part of a team that creates and delivers Service with Knowledge through experience and innovative solutions.

Key Responsibilities

Performs routine wine analysis testing, including pH, titratable acidity, Brix, alcohol, sulfur dioxide, and volatile acidity, following established laboratory procedures.

Operates, maintains, and troubleshoots laboratory equipment to ensure accurate, reliable, and timely test results.

Receives, logs, and tracks customer and internal samples, ensuring proper documentation and traceability throughout the testing process.

Records and reviews test results, identifying and escalating unusual or out-of-spec findings to senior laboratory staff.

Maintains a clean, organized, and safety-focused laboratory environment while following all chemical handling and PPE requirements.

Supports the Gusmer Fermentation Center, Applications Team, and other internal partners through analytical testing and research-related activities.

Collaborates with laboratory staff to meet daily testing needs while participating in ongoing training and continuous improvement initiatives.

Qualifications

HS diploma or Equivalent (GED/HSED) required, Associate's degree preferred in Enology, Chemistry, Biology, Food Science, or a related field.

Must have worked at least one harvest in a wine laboratory, including sample preparation, testing, and reporting required.

Customer service/hospitality experience required.

Work Environment

This position typically functions in a laboratory area. Regular use of computers and standard office software; extended screen time may be necessary. Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required in laboratory areas.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Gusmer Enterprises, Inc. is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and supporting internal career growth. All qualified internal applicants will receive consideration consistent with company policies.

Employment Type: TEMPORARY

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