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Food Science Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS The Food Science Department is seeking undergraduate students to serve as "Food Science Advocates" in support of departmental outreach, recruitment, and student engagement ...

R&D Technician within Food Science Excellent Career Growth | R&D Experience | Offers Benefits The R&D Technician supports the development and scale-up of new and improved food products and packaging.

AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS The Food Science Department is seeking to hire students to serve as "Food Science Advocates" to assist with department initiatives that center on student outreach and ...

Food Science R&D

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Vision insurance The Nutrition Science Product Development performs various project duties supporting the product development. This includes FPS process, formulation, bill of materials database ...

Food Scientist

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

This role involves staying updated with the latest bakery science advancements, analyzing ... Act as a back-up to the R&D Technician when needed. * Provide input on process, product, or ...

May supervise the work of junior professionals such as Technicians, Interns and On-Call staff ... PhD degree from an IFT accredited food science program, or equivalent combination of education and ...

... lab technicians and define what good looks like across the bench. A food science degree is preferred but not required. Demonstrated bench experience, shipped products, and functional beverage ...

... lab technicians and define what good looks like across the bench. A food science degree is preferred but not required. Demonstrated bench experience, shipped products, and functional beverage ...

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Food Science Technician information

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How much do food science technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for food science technician in the United States is $22.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $28.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectFood Science TechnicianFood Technologist
CredentialsAssociate's degree or equivalentBachelor's degree in food science or related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, quality control, production facilitiesResearch & development, product formulation, quality assurance
Employer & Industry UsageFood manufacturing, quality testing labsFood companies, R&D departments, regulatory agencies

Food Science Technicians typically hold an associate's degree and focus on testing, quality control, and supporting food production. Food Technologists usually have a bachelor's degree and are involved in product development, research, and innovation. Both roles work in food manufacturing environments but differ in responsibilities and educational requirements.

Is food science a high paying job?

Food science technicians typically earn a moderate salary that varies by experience, location, and employer. Entry-level positions often pay around $35,000 to $50,000 annually, with experienced technicians earning higher wages, especially in specialized roles or with advanced certifications. Overall, it is not considered a high-paying career compared to other science or engineering fields.

What can you do with a food tech degree?

A food science technician with a food tech degree can work in quality control, product development, food safety testing, and regulatory compliance within food manufacturing and processing facilities. They often use laboratory equipment, follow safety protocols, and may obtain certifications such as HACCP to ensure food quality and safety. Career options include roles in research, quality assurance, and technical support in the food industry.

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

To thrive as a Food Science Technician, you need a background in biology, chemistry, or food science, typically supported by an associate degree or relevant certification. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, food analysis software, and quality control systems like HACCP is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the accuracy and safety of food products, compliance with regulations, and efficient laboratory operations.

What are Food Science Technicians?

Food Science Technicians assist food scientists and technologists in researching, developing, and testing food products and processes. They often work in laboratories or food manufacturing facilities, conducting experiments, collecting data, and ensuring food quality and safety standards are met. Their work can involve analyzing ingredients, running quality control tests, and supporting the development of new food products. Food Science Technicians play a crucial role in making sure the food we eat is safe, nutritious, and appealing.

What does a food science technician do?

A food science technician assists in testing and analyzing food products to ensure safety, quality, and compliance with regulations. They may perform laboratory experiments, operate testing equipment, and document results, often working under the supervision of food scientists or quality assurance managers.

What is the highest paying job in food technology?

In food technology, senior roles such as Food Science Managers, Directors, or R&D Managers tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures. These positions typically require advanced education, extensive experience, and leadership skills, and may involve overseeing product development, quality assurance, or regulatory compliance.

What are some common challenges faced by Food Science Technicians in laboratory settings?

Food Science Technicians often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict hygiene standards, accurately following complex testing protocols, and managing multiple experiments simultaneously. Working with perishable materials requires careful time management and attention to detail to ensure valid results. Additionally, technicians frequently collaborate with scientists and quality assurance teams, which demands clear communication and adaptability to shifting project priorities.
More about Food Science Technician jobs
What cities are hiring for Food Science Technician jobs? Cities with the most Food Science Technician job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Food Science Technician jobs? The top employers for Food Science Technician jobs are:
What states have the most Food Science Technician jobs? States with the most job openings for Food Science Technician jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Food Science Technician jobs? For Food Science Technician jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Food Science Technician job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 52% Full Time, 47% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,976 per year, or $22.6 per hour.
Food Science Advocates

Part-time

Posted 14 hours ago


Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.For additional information on remote work at Penn State, seeNotice to Out of State Applicants.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

The Food Science Department is seeking undergraduate students to serve as "Food Science Advocates" in support of departmental outreach, recruitment, and student engagement initiatives.

Students who are energetic, professional, and passionate about their experiences within the Food Science program and the broader field of Food Science are strongly encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities include:

Assisting with prospective student outreach by meeting with students and their families, both in-person and virtually, to lead tours of the Food Science Department facilities and share personal experiences related to academics, student involvement, undergraduate research, internships, product development, sensory evaluation, Food Science Club activities, and other opportunities within the program. Virtual engagement through platforms such as Microsoft Teams and Zoom may also be required. While most tours will take place within the Food Science Building, some may extend throughout Ag Hill and University Park. A general familiarity with key campus locations such as the Library, HUB-Robeson Center, Lion Shrine, Beaver Stadium, and Campus Recreation facilities is preferred.

Representing the Food Science Department at departmental and college recruitment events, including Bite of Food Science webinars, A Taste of Food Science events, Penn State Day, Plant Yourself in Ag Day, Admitted Students Events (ASE), Interest Days, Spend A Summer Day (SASD), New Student Orientation (NSO), Commonwealth Campus programs, and related outreach initiatives.

Supporting the department's social media and digital recruitment efforts through platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and related channels. Students should have an interest in content creation, photography, videography, storytelling, interviewing, and highlighting experiences within the department for recruitment and promotional purposes.

Assisting with additional recruitment, outreach, and student engagement initiatives as needed. This position may occasionally require travel to off-site locations or events. Students selected for the role must maintain a professional and positive representation of the Food Science Department and the University.

*Academic success, personal well-being, and health will always remain the priority for students serving in this role, and flexibility will be provided whenever possible to support those needs. At the same time, recruitment and outreach remain strategic priorities within the Food Science Department, and students selected for this position are expected to communicate professionally and make their best effort to honor scheduled commitments, events, and responsibilities associated with the role.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

This position requires the following clearances in addition to applicable background checks: PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.

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About Pennsylvania State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Pennsylvania State University, often referred to as Penn State, is a major, public, research-intensive university located in University Park, PA, US. This esteemed institution serves as an important player within the education industry, offering a plethora of academic programs across various disciplines. The university was founded in 1855 with the mission to provide quality education, advanced research, and service to society. Penn State holds firmly to values of integrity, respect, and excellence, fostering a diverse and inclusive community. The university is renowned for its research productivity and its high-ranking programs in areas like engineering, business, and education. One notable achievement of the institution is its designation as a "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity," demonstrating its commitment to scholarship and discovery.

Industry

Education

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

University Park, PA, US

Year founded

1855

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