1

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 Manager

Imperial, CA ยท On-site

$150 - $210/hr

Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Nutrition, or Culinary School certification; advanced degree a plus. * Minimum 5 years of experience in food product development in a manufacturing ...

New

... food matter for people and the planet . If you're ready for a new adventure in a dynamic, expanding, passionate, international company, join us ! SUMMARY OF POSITION The Associate Technologist will ...

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.

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.

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 ...

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 ...

next page

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 Aug 20, 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 is a food tech?

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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a food technologist?

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 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 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.

How do I become a food technologist?

To become a food technologist, you typically need a bachelor's degree in food science, microbiology, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships and developing skills in food safety, quality control, and product development are important; certifications like HACCP can also enhance job prospects.

What can you do with food tech?

A Food Tech professional works on developing, improving, and managing food production processes, including product development, quality control, and food safety. They may use tools like automation, data analysis, and food science techniques to innovate and optimize food systems in manufacturing or research settings.

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

The top searched job categories for Food Tech jobs in California 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,425 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

Associate Food Technologist (Beverages)

Astrix Inc

Pacoima, CA โ€ข On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 9 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.

#INDBH
#LI - DNP