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Food Science Technologist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sweegen

Food Technologist

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA · On-site

Strong foundation in Food Technology and related sciences, with experience applying food science principles to product development. * Demonstrated Laboratory Skills, including formulation, bench-top ...

New

JRG Partners

Food Process Scientist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

... Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Physics or a related degree ? 3-5+ years of experience in process research in the food industry required ? Experienced with the development of new food tech ...

Tropicale Foods

Food Technologist

Oakland, CA

$75K - $85K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Food science, Food Technology, Nutrition, or a related field (master's degree is a plus). * Proven experience in food product development or food manufacturing (2-5 years ...

Sambazon Inc

Food Technologist

San Clemente, CA · On-site

$26 - $28/hr

B.S. degree in Food Science, Food Engineering, Nutrition, or similar science-based discipline. * Prefer one to two years of work experience, including internships. * Ability to manage multiple ...

Sambazon Inc

Food Technologist

San Clemente, CA · On-site

$26 - $28/hr

B.S. degree in Food Science, Food Engineering, Nutrition, or similar science-based discipline. * Prefer one to two years of work experience, including internships. * Ability to manage multiple ...

Socket.dev

Food Scientist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$90 - $115/hr

Bachelor degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or related field * Experience in the ... Investigate and apply natural preservation techniques (e.g., bio-preservation, hurdle technologies ...

New

GT'S Living Foods

Food Scientist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Bachelor degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or related field * Experience in the ... Investigate and apply natural preservation techniques (e.g., bio-preservation, hurdle technologies ...

GT'S Living Foods

Food Scientist

Vernon, CA · On-site

Bachelor degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or related field * Experience in the ... Investigate and apply natural preservation techniques (e.g., bio-preservation, hurdle technologies ...

Aspire Bakeries

Food Technologist, R&D

Newark, CA · On-site

$68K - $91K/yr

As a Food Technologist, you will be accountable for developing innovative bakery products and ... Strong understanding of food science principles, including ingredient functionality and testing ...

Apex Systems

R&D Food Scientist

Fullerton, CA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Food Science, Food Engineering, or a related scientific discipline ... Apex Systems is a world-class IT services company that serves thousands of clients across the globe.

Aspire Bakeries

Food Technologist, R&D

Newark, CA · On-site

$68K - $91K/yr

As a Food Technologist, you will be accountable for developing innovative bakery products and ... Strong understanding of food science principles, including ingredient functionality and testing ...

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All JobsFood Science Technologist JobsFood Science Technologist Jobs in California

Food Science Technologist information

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$14

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$48

How much do food science technologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for food science technologist in California is $29.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.70 and $33.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a food science technologist?

Food Science Technologists are professionals who apply scientific principles to the study, development, and improvement of food products and processes. They work to ensure the safety, quality, and nutritional value of food by conducting research, testing, and analysis. These technologists may be involved in developing new food products, improving existing ones, or ensuring compliance with food safety regulations. Their work is essential in the food industry to meet consumer demands and maintain high standards for food production.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a food science technologist?

To thrive as a Food Science Technologist, you need a solid background in food chemistry, microbiology, and process engineering, typically supported by a degree in food science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, HACCP protocols, and food safety regulations is essential, and certifications like SQF or PCQI can be advantageous. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong communication skills help you collaborate with teams and ensure product quality. These skills are crucial for developing safe, high-quality food products and maintaining compliance in a regulated industry.

What are some common challenges food science technologists face when developing new food products?

Food Science Technologists often encounter challenges balancing food safety, regulatory compliance, and consumer preferences when developing new products. They must ensure formulations meet nutritional and labeling standards while also achieving desirable taste, texture, and shelf life. Additionally, collaborating with cross-functional teams—such as marketing, quality assurance, and production—requires clear communication to align technical feasibility with business objectives. Navigating these complexities is a key part of the role and offers valuable problem-solving experience.

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

AspectFood Science TechnologistFood Quality Assurance Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in food science or related fieldBachelor's degree in food science, microbiology, or related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, food production plantsFood manufacturing facilities, quality control labs
Employer & IndustryFood companies, research institutions, government agenciesFood manufacturing companies, quality assurance departments
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Food Science Technologist focuses on developing and improving food products through research and testing, while the Food Quality Assurance Technician primarily ensures that food products meet safety and quality standards during production. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often work in related environments, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

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

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

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

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

Food Science Technologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Science Technologist 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 $61,561 per year, or $29.6 per hour.

Food Technologist

Sweegen

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Sweegen provides taste optimization technologies for food and beverage manufacturers around the world. We are on a mission to reduce sugar, artificial sweeteners, and other unwholesome ingredients in the global diet. Partnering with customers, we create delicious, better-for-you products that consumers love. Sweegen delivers market-leading sugar reduction solutions that customers want, and consumers prefer.


The Food Technologist role at Sweegen is a full-time, on-site position based in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA. This role is responsible for developing and reformulating food and beverage products using Sweegen’s ingredient systems. This role collaborates with cross-functional teams in R&D, quality, and commercial functions to optimize product performance, ensure regulatory and quality standards are met, and support customer projects from concept to commercialization. The role also involves staying current with industry trends and helping translate consumer wellness and taste preferences into innovative product solutions.


Qualifications

  • Strong foundation in Food Technology and related sciences, with experience applying food science principles to product development.
  • Demonstrated Laboratory Skills, including formulation, bench-top testing, sample preparation, and safe handling of ingredients and equipment.
  • Knowledge of Quality Control practices, including product testing, documentation, and adherence to food safety and regulatory standards.
  • Hands-on involvement in Research and Development (R&D), including experimental design, data analysis, and iterative optimization of prototypes.
  • Familiarity with sweeteners, flavor systems, or reduced-sugar formulations is highly beneficial.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills, with attention to detail and accuracy in documentation.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively in multidisciplinary teams and communicate technical findings clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
  • Ability to work independently and ability to work as part of a team.
  • Additional ability to mentor and lead junior technologist.
  • Commitment to safety, continuous learning, and innovation in a fast-paced environment.
  • Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Chemistry, or a related field; advanced degree is a plus.

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