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Food Tech Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Food Process Scientist

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

Food Process Scientist Our client, a dynamic, innovative and growing Food Tech Company is seeking a Food Process Scientist for their San Francisco location. This is an exciting opportunity to join a ...

R&D - Food Scientist II

Fullerton, CA ยท On-site

$80K - $85K/yr

Apply a wide range of food science and technology, microbiology and chemistry knowledge to identify the root-causes of product defects and propose preventive actions. * Assist with special project ...

Food Technologist, R&D

Van Nuys, CA ยท On-site

$68K - $91K/yr

As a Food Technologist, you will be accountable for driving new product development and continuous improvement initiatives while ensuring formulations meet customer expectations, regulatory standards ...

As a Food Technologist, you will be accountable for driving new product development and continuous improvement initiatives while ensuring formulations meet customer expectations, regulatory standards ...

Food Technologist, R&D

Newark, CA ยท On-site

$68K - $91K/yr

As a Food Technologist, you will be accountable for developing innovative bakery products and optimizing existing formulations to meet customer expectations, market trends, and operational excellence.

As a Food Technologist, you will be accountable for developing innovative bakery products and optimizing existing formulations to meet customer expectations, market trends, and operational excellence.

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Showing results 1-20

Food Tech information

See California salary details

$5

$19

$30

How much do food tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for food tech in California is $19.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.71 and $23.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

In the food technology field, high-paying roles such as food production managers or specialized food scientists can sometimes earn around $4,000 weekly, especially with experience and industry certifications. These positions often require technical skills, leadership abilities, and knowledge of food safety standards but may not always require a formal degree. Other high-paying jobs in related industries include sales or business development roles that focus on food products, which can also reach this income level with experience and commissions.

What is the highest paying job in Food Technology?

The highest paying roles in Food Technology are often senior management positions such as Food Technology Directors or R&D Managers, with salaries exceeding $100,000 annually. These roles typically require advanced degrees, extensive industry experience, and strong leadership skills, often overseeing product development, quality assurance, or regulatory compliance.

What are Food Tech professionals?

Food Tech professionals are experts who apply technology, science, and engineering principles to the production, processing, preservation, packaging, and distribution of food. They work to improve food quality, safety, and sustainability by developing new food products, optimizing manufacturing processes, and ensuring compliance with health regulations. Their work helps bring innovative and healthier food options to consumers while minimizing waste and environmental impact.

What are some common challenges faced by Food Tech professionals when developing new food products?

Food Tech professionals often encounter challenges such as balancing taste, texture, and shelf life while adhering to food safety regulations and cost constraints. They must work collaboratively with cross-functional teams including R&D, quality assurance, and marketing to ensure new products meet both consumer expectations and regulatory requirements. Additionally, staying updated on emerging food trends and technologies is crucial to remain competitive in the industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Food Technologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Food Technologist, you need a solid background in food science, chemistry, and microbiology, usually supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with laboratory analysis equipment, food safety standards, and quality control systems like HACCP is typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this field. These competencies ensure the safe development, production, and improvement of food products while maintaining regulatory compliance and high quality.

What is the difference between Food Tech vs Food Scientist?

AspectFood TechFood Scientist
Required CredentialsDegree in Food Technology, Food Engineering, or relatedDegree in Food Science, Chemistry, or related
Work EnvironmentProduct development labs, manufacturing facilities, R&D centersLaboratories, research institutions, quality control labs
Employer & Industry UsageFood manufacturing companies, startups, R&D firmsResearch institutions, food companies, government agencies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in food product development and innovationResearching scientific roles in food safety, quality, and research

Food Tech professionals focus on developing new food products, improving manufacturing processes, and applying technology to food production. Food Scientists primarily conduct research, analyze food safety, and study food properties. While both roles work within the food industry, Food Tech emphasizes product development and technological application, whereas Food Scientists focus on scientific research and analysis.

What do you do in food tech?

A food tech professional develops, tests, and improves food products and processes using scientific and technological methods. They may work with food safety standards, quality control, and new food innovations, often utilizing tools like laboratory equipment and software. The role typically requires knowledge of food science, engineering, or related fields, and may involve working in laboratories or production facilities.

What can I do with a Food Technology degree?

A Food Technology degree prepares individuals for roles such as food technologist, quality assurance manager, product development scientist, or food safety specialist. Graduates often work in food manufacturing, research labs, or regulatory agencies, utilizing skills in food processing, safety standards, and laboratory techniques.
What are popular job titles related to Food Tech jobs in California? For Food Tech jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in California are hiring for Food Tech jobs? Cities in California with the most Food Tech job openings:
Infographic showing various Food Tech job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,425 per year, or $19.9 per hour.
Associate Food Technologist (Beverages)

Associate Food Technologist (Beverages)

Astrix Inc

Pacoima, CA โ€ข On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Contractor

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

We are seeking a motivated Associate R&D Food Technologist to join our team! This contract-to-hire role is ideal for someone who is passionate about product development, enjoys hands-on formulation work, and thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
Title: Associate Food Technologist
Location: North Los Angeles, CA
Job type: Contract - hire
Pay Rate: $25/hr. -$30/hr. (DOE)
Key Responsibilities
  • Develop and improve new and existing products based on customer or internal requirements.
  • Demonstrate creativity and innovation in formulation development.
  • Taste, evaluate, and validate all developed products for quality and consistency.
  • Work independently with minimal supervision to meet project objectives.
  • Perform product costing calculations and maintain accurate cost data.
  • Create and maintain master formulas within company databases.
  • Draft product specifications for supervisor review and approval.
  • Conduct shelf-life and stability testing on finished products.
  • Establish and manage protocols for all outgoing product samples.

Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Chemistry, or a related scientific field.
  • Minimum 1 year of experience in the food industry or relevant field.
  • Strong mathematical skills, including working knowledge of algebra.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Strong sensory acuity for taste and aroma evaluation.
  • Ability to occasionally lift and carry up to 15 lbs.

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