1

Food Science Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Food Safety Manager

South San Francisco, CA · On-site

$123K - $150K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Microbiology, or related field (or equivalent experience). Job Type: Full-time Salary: $80,000-100,000/year Benefits: * 401(k) plan * Health Insurance * Dental ...

Strong scientific knowledge of meat, non-meat ingredients and their functionality. Able to work ... Continuously improves and updates food/meat science and product development skills and understands ...

Showing results 41-60

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 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 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.

$110K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

An expanding food production company in San Diego seeks a dynamic leader to oversee and optimize our quality assurance department. Your mission is to ensure adherence to corporate policies, manage safety standards, and align with USDA and FDA regulations. You will be pivotal in embedding food safety, quality assurance, and control into the core of our operational processes.Key Responsibilities:- Administer and refine SQF compliance programs- Drive efforts to maintain high SQF audit scores- Develop, update, and implement HACCP plans aligned with business requirements- Maintain an organized repository of QA documents for streamlined access and presentation- Oversee product manufacturing to ensure compliance with SSOP, GMP, HACCP, and SQF during audits and customer evaluations- Define manufacturing standards, protocols, and procedures for quality standards and new product innovation- Create and run training programs that uphold company goals concerning quality and food safety throughout the plant- Assist the sales team with label compliance for new products- Manage, organize, and keep product specification documentation up-to-date- Ensure facility certifications such as Kosher, Halal, Organic, GMO, GF, USDA, and FDA are current- Supervise third-shift sanitation team for adherence to sanitation requirements- Mentor and develop team members through training and certification opportunities- Administer disciplinary measures and manage staffing decisions as required- Conduct swab testing, pH checks, and other assessments to align with process requirementsRequired Qualifications:- Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Food Process Engineering, or a related field- Proven record of implementing food manufacturing policies (GMPs, SSOPs, HACCP, SQF)- Proficient in Microsoft Office and similar systems- 7-20 years of experience as a QA Manager in the food industry with at least 5 years in a USDA oversight role- Certified SQF Practitioner with HACCP certificationKey Competencies:- Initiative-driven and proactive- Professional, dependable, and flexible with strong ownership- Integrity-centered with ethical conduct- Work effectively in cold environments, especially in meat processing contexts- Highly organized, capable multitasker, and results-focusedThis role offers the opportunity to grow within a smaller, rapidly developing company with significant potential.Nigel