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Food Science Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Scientific Search

Food Scientist

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$73K - $92K/yr

Bachelor's in Food Science, Food Engineering, Chemistry, Nutrition, or related field * Strong food formulation and ingredient functionality knowledge * Experience with commercialization and ...

JRG Partners

Food Process Scientist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

The Food Science Scientist will be part of the AI Food team and will be reporting to the Director of Food Ai. The main responsibility of this individual will be able to successful apply robust ...

Socket.dev

Food Scientist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Bachelor degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or related field * Experience in the Natural Food Industry The Food Scientist is responsible for the development of new products from ...

GT'S Living Foods

Food Scientist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Bachelor degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or related field * Experience in the Natural Food Industry The Food Scientist is responsible for the development of new products from ...

GT'S Living Foods

Food Scientist

Vernon, CA

Bachelor degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or related field * Experience in the Natural Food Industry The Food Scientist is responsible for the development of new products from ...

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How much do food science jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for food science 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 a food science?

A Food Science job involves applying biology, chemistry, and engineering principles to develop and improve food products, ensure safety, and enhance nutritional value. Professionals in this field work in research, quality control, product development, and regulatory compliance. They collaborate with food manufacturers, government agencies, and research institutions to innovate food processing techniques and maintain industry standards.

What does a food science do?

A Food Science professional's daily tasks can include developing new food products, conducting laboratory tests for quality and safety, analyzing ingredient properties, and ensuring compliance with food regulations. Professionals often collaborate closely with production teams, quality assurance departments, and research & development groups to optimize processes and resolve technical challenges. Regular responsibilities may also involve documenting findings, presenting research, and staying updated on industry trends and food safety standards. This role is dynamic and offers opportunities to contribute to projects that directly impact consumer health and satisfaction.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in food science, and why are they important?

To thrive in Food Science, you need a solid background in chemistry, microbiology, and food processing, often supported by a degree in food science or a related field. Experience with laboratory equipment, food safety standards (like HACCP), and quality control systems is typically essential. Strong analytical thinking, teamwork, and effective communication skills help professionals excel in this role. These abilities are critical to ensuring product quality, safety, and innovation in the food industry.

Are food scientists in high demand?

Food scientists are in steady demand due to the need for food safety, product development, and quality assurance in the food industry. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as companies focus on innovation, nutrition, and regulatory compliance, often requiring skills in laboratory analysis and food technology.

Is a food science degree worth it?

A food science degree prepares individuals for careers in food product development, quality assurance, and safety, often requiring knowledge of chemistry, microbiology, and food processing techniques. It can lead to roles in manufacturing, research, and regulatory agencies, with job prospects influenced by industry demand and certifications such as HACCP. The degree provides practical skills and industry-specific knowledge valuable for employment in the food sector.

What can you do with a food science degree?

A food science degree prepares individuals for careers in food product development, quality assurance, food safety, and research. Graduates can work in manufacturing, regulatory agencies, or research laboratories, often utilizing skills in chemistry, microbiology, and food processing techniques.

Which job is best in food science?

The best job in food science depends on individual interests and skills, but roles such as food scientist, quality assurance manager, and product development scientist are highly regarded. These positions often require knowledge of food safety regulations, laboratory skills, and sometimes advanced degrees or certifications. They typically offer opportunities for innovation, research, and advancement within the food industry.

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

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Food Science jobs?

Cities in California with the most Food Science job openings:

Food Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Science job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, 44% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,361 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Food Scientist

El Segundo, CA • On-site

Scientific Search
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Scientific Searchexternal

$73K - $92K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Food Scientist / Product Development Scientist
Location: El Segundo, CA
Bring innovative nutrition products from concept to shelf. My client is seeking a hands-on Food Scientist who can transform consumer insights into great-tasting, scalable products while influencing quality, nutrition, cost, and manufacturing success.
Why You Should Apply
  • $73,600–$92,000 base salary
  • 5% annual short-term incentive
  • Medical, dental, vision, life & disability coverage
  • 401(k), paid parental leave & generous time off
  • Make a direct impact on innovative nutritional products
What You’ll Be Doing
  • Develop and renovate nutritional bars and shelf-stable products
  • Lead formulations from benchtop through pilot and commercialization
  • Execute production trials, scale-up and post-launch optimization
  • Partner with co-manufacturers to troubleshoot processing challenges
  • Analyze sensory, shelf-life and manufacturing data
About You
  • Bachelor’s in Food Science, Food Engineering, Chemistry, Nutrition, or related field
  • Strong food formulation and ingredient functionality knowledge
  • Experience with commercialization and manufacturing trials
  • Skilled in specifications and technical documentation
  • Genesis or comparable formulation/PLM system knowledge preferred
How To Apply
We’d love to see your resume, but we don’t need it to have a conversation. Send us an email to emily@scientificsearch.com and tell me why you’re interested. Or, feel free to email your resume. Please include Job#20067.

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