ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Food Science Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Kosmos

Food Quality Manager

Chula Vista, CA

$115K - $140K/yr

... Science degree in Food Science, Microbiology, food process engineering, or similar discipline · Solid track record of successful implementation, and compliance of food manufacturing policies and ...

Kosmos

Food Quality Manager

San Diego, CA

$115K - $140K/yr

... Science degree in Food Science, Microbiology, food process engineering, or similar discipline · Solid track record of successful implementation, and compliance of food manufacturing policies and ...

Kosmos

Food Quality Manager

San Diego, CA

$115K - $140K/yr

... Science degree in Food Science, Microbiology, food process engineering, or similar discipline · Solid track record of successful implementation, and compliance of food manufacturing policies and ...

Gold Coast Ingredients, Inc.

Be Seen First

Food Applications Assistant

Santa Fe Springs, CA · On-site

$24 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Development and progress have always been a crucial aspect of the way we do business, as we strive to achieve the perfect synergy between the precision of food science and the craft of artisan flavor ...

Aspire Bakeries

Food Technologist, R&D

Newark, CA · On-site

$68K - $91K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Strong understanding of food science principles, including ingredient functionality and testing methods * Ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines * Strong ...

Aspire Bakeries

Food Technologist, R&D

Newark, CA

$68K - $91K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Strong understanding of food science principles, including ingredient functionality and testing methods * Ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines * Strong ...

MeriCal LLC

Nutrition Scientist

Orange, CA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

MS or higher degree in nutrition science or food science. * 2+ years of experience in dietary supplement industry with expert knowledge of nutrition and dietary supplement formulation and technology.

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsFood Science JobsFood Science Jobs in California

Food Science information

See California salary details

$11

$22

$33

How much do food science jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 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 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 $46,361 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Food Quality Manager

Kosmos

Chula Vista, CA

$115K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Growing San Diego Food Company is looking for a FSQA Manager will have a solid vision and strong will to manage the QA department, its programs and activities that will ensure compliance with company policies. Will manage food safety standards, USDA, FDA, regulations and will integrate food safety, quality assurance and quality control into all functions and people across the plant.

Essential Job Duties:

· Manage and sustain all SQF required programs

· Lead efforts to achieve >90% SQF scores

· Review, update and create HACCP plans to keep up with business needs

· Organize, maintain library, and file all QA documents/programs to easily present or compile information as needed

· Monitor product manufacturing in a way that result in company compliance with regulatory SSOP, GMP, HACCP, and SQF standards for third party audits and customer requirements.

· Establish manufacturing specifications, standards, protocols and procedures for quality control and new product development.

· Develop and execute training programs that support the Company's objectives with regards to quality and food safety plantwide.

· Support sales with compliance in label submittal for new products

· Create, update, manage product specifications, and maintain files organized

· Keep up with plant certifications, Kosher, Halal, Organic, GMO, GF, USDA, FDA, and specific customer audits.

· Manage 3rd shift sanitation crew to ensure compliance with equipment and building sanitation

· Coach and develop subordinates, provide training, certifications, and other growth opportunities

· Apply timely discipline, hire and terminate employees as needed

· Make sure all swab testing, pH, sodium, etc. are consistent with plant process needs

Education and Experience:

· Bachelor of Science degree in Food Science, Microbiology, food process engineering, or similar discipline

· Solid track record of successful implementation, and compliance of food manufacturing policies and procedures, (GMP's, SSOP's, HACCP, SQF, all prerequisites)

· Strong Microsoft Office and other systems knowledge

· 10-15 years as QA Manager in the food industry with minimum 5 years in a USDA environment

· Must be SQF Practitioner, and have HACCP certification

Other Capabilities / Physical requirements:

· Self-starter and takes initiative.

· Professional, dependable, flexible and takes ownership

· Demonstrate integrity with honest ethical actions

· Ability to work in a cold environment / meat processing

· Multitask, well organized, and results oriented

Qualifications

Education and Experience:

· Bachelor of Science degree in Food Science, Microbiology, food process engineering, or similar discipline

· Solid track record of successful implementation, and compliance of food manufacturing policies and procedures, (GMP's, SSOP's, HACCP, SQF, all prerequisites)

· Strong Microsoft Office and other systems knowledge

· 7-20 years as QA Manager in the food industry

· Must be SQF Practitioner, and have HACCP certification

Other Capabilities / Physical requirements:

· Self-starter and takes initiative.

· Professional, dependable, flexible and takes ownership

· Demonstrate integrity with honest ethical actions

· Ability to work in a cold environment / meat processing

· Multitask, well organized, and results oriented