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Food Science Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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

Senior Food Scientist

Vernon, CA · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Engineering, Meat Science, or a related technical discipline. * 4+ years of experience in food product development, R&D, or food science within the Consumer ...

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 ...

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 ...

Food Quality Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$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 ...

Food Quality Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$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 ...

Food Quality Manager

Chula Vista, CA · On-site

$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 ...

Showing results 21-40

Food Science information

See California salary details

$11

$22

$33

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 cities in California are hiring for Food Science jobs?

Cities in California with the most Food Science job openings:

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.

2026-27 AY Lecturer Pool - Nutrition and Food Science

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, LOS ANGELES FOUNDATION

$60 - $80/hr

Other

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

2026-27 AY Lecturer Pool - Nutrition and Food Science

Apply now Job no: 555676
Work type: Instructional Faculty - Temporary/Lecturer
Location: Los Angeles
Categories: Unit 3 - CFA - California Faculty Association, Temporary, Part Time, Faculty - Health Sciences

College: Rongxiang Xu College of Health and Human Services

Position Title: 2026-27 AY Lecturer Pool - Nutrition and Food Services

Department of Nutrition and Food Science

Instructional Faculty – Part-time Temporary/Lecturer Pool

The Nutrition and Food Science Department in the Rongxiang Xu College of Health and Human Services at Cal State LA is seeking applications for a pool of part-time faculty lecturers with positions available as determined by need during the 2026-2027 academic year. Positions will be filled as needed for each academic semester.

Part-time faculty lecturers are hired with conditional appointments based on enrollment and budget. Hires from the pool of applicants are made when there are instructional needs to fill coursework offered by an academic department based on changing enrollment patterns, changes to tenure-track faculty assignments, and other factors that cannot be addressed with existing faculty. Initial appointments are typically for one semester, but occasionally academic year initial appointments are made. Appointments may be renewed based on department needs, funding, and performance. Often appointments are made just prior to the start of the semester so some faculty lecturers may need to be available on very short notice.

Minimum Qualifications:

Candidate must have an appropriate degree from an accredited university (bachelor’s degree and substantial teaching experience for lower division courses; master’s degree for upper division undergraduate courses; doctoral degree, or master’s degree and substantial teaching experience for graduate courses). Demonstrated excellence in teaching at a college level. Applicants should have the ability to relate well to others within the academic environment and demonstrate ability and/or interest in working in a multiethnic, multicultural environment. Demonstrated experience and commitment to student-centered learning and teaching. Demonstrated proficiency in written and oral use of the English language is required.

Preferred Qualifications:

Preference will be given to those with experience in working with diverse populations and fostering a collaborative, supportive and inclusive environment. Preference will also be given to those with relevant work experience and training.

Registered Dietitian; Doctoral Candidate or Post-Doc. MS/PhD in Nutritional Science, Food Science, or related areas. Experience in the fields of food science, nutrition, and dietetics.

Duties:

Duties of part-time faculty lecturers include instruction, class preparation, grading, and office hours. Other duties may be assigned based on departmental needs. Course assignments, including dates, time, and modality, are made by the Department Chair under the direction of the College Dean.

Faculty will teach courses, complete other course-related tasks, and be available for office hours.

The successful candidate will be committed to the academic success of all our students and to an environment that acknowledges, encourages, and celebrates diversity and differences. To this end, the successful candidate will work effectively, respectfully, and collaboratively in diverse, multicultural, and inclusive settings. In addition, the successful candidate will be ready to join faculty, staff, students, and administrators in our University’s shared commitment to the principles of engagement, service, and the public good.

Initial Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience. The salary schedule information for the faculty lecturer: Academic Year-month Classification is available based on the following ranges: (per salary schedule 7/1/2024)

  • Lecturer A/2 Full-time equivalent Salary Range: $5,507 - $6,677
  • Lecturer B/3 Full-time equivalent Salary Range: $6,221 - $13,224
  • Lecturer C/4 Full-time equivalent Salary Range: $6,825 - $14,523
  • Lecturer D/5 Full-time equivalent Salary Range: $8,593 - $15,211

The anticipated monthly hiring range is generally at or near the minimum of the appropriate range, commensurate with qualifications and experience. Most new faculty lecturers are hired at the Lecturer A or B rank.

The University:

California State University, Los Angeles (Cal State LA) is one of 22 campuses within the California State University system. The University is the premier comprehensive public university in the heart of Los Angeles. Cal State LA is ranked number one in the U.S. for the upward mobility of its students, and is dedicated to engagement, service, and the public good. We offer nationally recognized programs in science, the arts, business, criminal justice, engineering, nursing, education, ethnic studies, and the humanities. Our faculty have a strong commitment to scholarship, research, creative pursuits, community engagement, and service.

Our 240,000 alumni reflect the City and County’s dynamic mix of populations. The University has one of the most diverse student populations of any college or university in the nation. As a federally recognized Hispanic-Serving Institution, and Asian-American, Native American, and Pacific Islander-Serving Institution, Cal State LA recognizes the transformative power of education and embraces its duty to identify and serve the needs of all of its students. The University is committed to creating a community in which a diverse population can live, work and learn in an atmosphere of civility and respect for the rights and sensibilities of each individual.

The Department:

The Department of Nutrition and Food Science prepares students to excel in nutrition and food science skills communication, research, policy, advocacy, and service. Graduates will improve individual and community health as innovative leaders in the field.

Required Documentation:

Please submit the following with the employment application at the Apply link listed below:

  1. Cover letter specifically addressing minimum and preferred qualifications.
  2. Narrative statement describing commitment to working effectively with faculty, staff, and students in a multicultural/multiethnic urban campus environment with a substantial population of first-generation college students.
  3. Updated curriculum vitae.
  4. List of CSU courses previously taught, and/or courses or topics areas qualified for and requesting careful consideration to teach in the upcoming academic year.

Official transcripts will be required upon hire offer and prior to employment. Employment is contingent upon proof of eligibility to work in the United States.

* A United States (US) Equivalency certification is required for earned/awarded/conferred foreign terminal degrees. The US Equivalency certification is used to validate foreign studies by an academic credential evaluation agency and is evaluated on foreign studies and deemed to be equivalent to degrees from the United States. The certification must translate the information in English, and confirm that your highest terminal degree is US Equivalent to a US terminal degree (i.e., Master’s, Doctorate’s, Doctor’s of Philosophy).

Application:

Deadline: For full consideration, complete applications must be submitted by April 15, 2026. Applications received after the deadline may be considered.

Note: The person holding this position is considered a "mandated reporter" under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and is required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order 1083 as a condition of employment.

Beginning January 1, 2022, campuses may not hire or reappoint an Employee to perform CSU-related work outside of California. Requests for exceptions are very limited based on CSU Policy and must have prior written approval from the University President.

Background Check: A background check (including a criminal records check) must be satisfactorily completed. Offers of employment are conditional and may be rescinded if the background check reveals disqualifying information, and/or it is discovered that the candidate knowingly withheld or falsified information. Failure to satisfactorily complete the background check may affect the continued employment of a current CSU employee who was conditionally offered the position.

Applicants will be required to disclose whether they have received a final administrative decision or final judicial decision determining that they have committed sexual harassment within the last seven years only after a determination is made that they meet the minimum qualifications for the position, and before an offer of employment is extended. Applicants who reach the final stages of the application process must sign a release form that authorizes the release of information by the applicant’s current and/or former employers to the CSU concerning any substantiated allegations of misconduct.

Equal Opportunity and Excellence in Education and Employment:

All university programs and activities are open and available to all regardless of race, sex, color, ethnicity or national origin. Consistent with California law and federal civil rights laws, California State University, Los Angeles provides equal opportunity in education and employment without unlawful discrimination or preferential treatment based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin. Our commitment to equal opportunity means ensuring that every student and employee has access to the resources and support they need to thrive and succeed in a university environment and in their communities. California State University, Los Angeles complies with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the California Equity in Higher Education Act, California’s Proposition 209 (Art. I, Section 31 of the California Constitution), other applicable state and federal anti-discrimination laws, and CSU’s Nondiscrimination Policy. We prohibit discriminatory preferential treatment, segregation based on race or any other protected status, and all forms of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in all university programs, policies, and practices. California State University, Los Angeles is a diverse community of individuals who represent many perspectives, beliefs and identities, committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and intellectually vibrant environment. We cultivate a culture of open dialogue, mutual respect, and belonging to support educational excellence and student success. Through academic programs, student organizations and activities, faculty initiatives, and community partnerships, we encourage meaningful engagement with diverse perspectives. As a higher education institution, we are dedicated to advancing knowledge and empowering individuals to reach their full potential by prioritizing inclusive curriculum development, faculty and staff training, student mentorship, and comprehensive support programs. At California State University, Los Angeles, excellence is built on merit, talent, diversity, accessibility, and equal opportunity for all.

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/TITLE IX EMPLOYER

Upon request, reasonable accommodation will be provided to individuals with protected disabilities to (a) complete the employment process and (b) perform essential job functions when this does not cause undue hardship.

Advertised: Mar 23, 2026 (9:00 AM) Pacific Daylight Time
Applications close: Open until filled

Expression of interest

No expression of interest currently available

Locations

Southern California

Categories

Appointment Type

  • Temporary

Bargaining Unit

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