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Food Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Food Technician Schedule: 1st shiftMonday-Friday, with flexibility as needed Work Location: 2015 Spring Road Suite 400, Oak Brook, IL 60523 Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k) with match, STD ...

Food Technician Schedule: 1st shift Monday-Friday, with flexibility as needed Work Location: 2015 Spring Road Suite 400, Oak Brook, IL 60523 Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k) with match, STD ...

This position description is intended to guide the activities of the Food Technician and is not intended to limit the thinking and creativity of the person to the work of this function nor is it ...

Food Technician

Fort Smith, AR · On-site

$15.50/hr

Summary The R&D Food Technician is responsible for assisting Food Technologists in the making of product samples and duties related to the development of new products. In addition to these ...

This position description is intended to guide the activities of the Food Technician and is not intended to limit the thinking and creativity of the person to the work of this function nor is it ...

Contractor Technician, Better For You Product Development Location: Hershey, PA, 17033 Duration: 3 ... Top Three Technical Skills: * 40% ability to prepare and execute trials on food equipment in pilot ...

Cocoa Technician Location: Hershey, PA, 17033 Duration: 3 Months Work Type: Onsite Role Overview ... Conduct food characterization and experimental trials * Prepare snacks and confectionery products ...

As an R&D Food Technician I , you'll support our Food Scientists by preparing product samples, conducting experiments, documenting results, and helping turn innovative concepts into products our ...

Bachelor's degree in food science or related field. * Minimum of one (1) to two (2) years' experience in research and development in a food manufacturing environment. * Knowledge of raw materials ...

Bachelor's degree in food science or related field. * Minimum of one (1) to two (2) years' experience in research and development in a food manufacturing environment. * Knowledge of raw materials ...

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Food Technician information

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How much do food technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for food technician in the United States is $20.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Food Technicians face when working in product development labs?

Food Technicians in product development labs often encounter challenges such as adapting recipes to meet both regulatory standards and consumer preferences, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and maintaining strict hygiene protocols. They frequently collaborate with food scientists, quality assurance teams, and production staff to ensure that new formulations are scalable and cost-effective. Balancing creativity with technical accuracy and adhering to deadlines in a fast-paced environment are also key aspects of the role.

What is the highest paying job in food technology?

The highest paying roles in food technology typically include food research and development directors, quality assurance managers, and food safety directors, often requiring advanced degrees and extensive experience. These positions oversee product innovation, regulatory compliance, and quality standards, with salaries reflecting their leadership and expertise in the industry.

What is the difference between Food Technician vs Food Scientist?

AspectFood TechnicianFood Scientist
CredentialsTypically requires a diploma or associate degree in food technology or related fieldUsually holds a bachelor's or higher degree in food science or microbiology
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, quality control, food production facilitiesResearch labs, product development, academic or industrial settings
Employer & IndustryFood manufacturing companies, quality assurance labsFood companies, research institutions, academia
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Food Technicians focus on quality control, testing, and ensuring food safety in production environments. Food Scientists are involved in research, product development, and scientific analysis to innovate and improve food products. While both roles work within the food industry, their responsibilities and educational requirements differ, with Food Technicians more hands-on in quality assurance and Food Scientists more research-oriented.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Food technicians typically do not earn $4,000 a week without specialized experience or certifications. High-paying roles that can reach this level without a degree often include skilled trades such as commercial pilots, real estate brokers, or sales managers, which rely on experience, licenses, or performance rather than formal education. These jobs may require specific skills, certifications, or licensing but not necessarily a college degree.

What is the role of a food technician?

A food technician is responsible for testing, analyzing, and ensuring the safety, quality, and compliance of food products. They often work in laboratories or manufacturing environments, using scientific methods and equipment to develop, improve, or evaluate food processes and ingredients. Certification and knowledge of food safety standards are typically required for this role.

What are Food Technicians?

Food Technicians are professionals who support food scientists and technologists in developing, testing, and producing food products. They work in laboratories, production facilities, or quality control departments, conducting experiments, analyzing ingredients, and ensuring products meet safety and quality standards. Their role is crucial in improving food processing methods, packaging, and shelf life, as well as ensuring compliance with regulations. Food Technicians may also help in documenting research findings and maintaining laboratory equipment.

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

To thrive as a Food Technician, you need a strong background in food science, laboratory techniques, and quality control, typically supported by an associate's or bachelor's degree in food technology or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, food safety regulations, and software for data analysis is essential, and certifications like HACCP can be advantageous. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for ensuring accurate testing and collaboration across departments. These competencies help maintain product safety, quality standards, and regulatory compliance in the food industry.

What jobs make $3,000 a month without a degree?

Food technicians typically earn less than $3,000 per month without a degree, but some entry-level roles in food service, food production, or food processing may reach or exceed this income with overtime or experience. Other high-paying jobs without a degree include commercial drivers, sales representatives, and certain skilled trades, but these are outside the food technician role specifically.
More about Food Technician jobs
What cities are hiring for Food Technician jobs? Cities with the most Food Technician job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Food Technician jobs? The top employers for Food Technician jobs are:
What states have the most Food Technician jobs? States with the most job openings for Food Technician jobs include:
Infographic showing various Food Technician job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, and 27% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,974 per year, or $20.2 per hour.
Food Technician

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago


Winland Foods rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

176th of 433 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Food Scientists play a critical role in turning ideas into high-quality, scalable products that delight customers and perform in manufacturing. This career path is designed to support growth from hands-on formulation and testing to enterprise-level technical leadership and innovation strategy.
Employee Type:
Full time
Location:
IL Oak Brook
Job Type:
Research and Development
Job Posting Title:
Food Technician
Job Description:
Schedule: 1st shiftMonday-Friday, with flexibility as needed
Work Location: 2015 Spring Road Suite 400, Oak Brook, IL 60523
Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k) with match, STD/LTD/AD&D/Life, HSA, FSA, EAP, Hospital indemnity, Accident Insurance, Identity and Fraud Protection Plan, Legal, and Critical Illness.
Salary, based on experience and other qualifications: $16.83 to $24.86 Per Hour with additional bonus potential
The Food Technician supports the design, testing, validation, and implementation of new products, line extensions, and product improvements. Working closely with Food Scientists and plant partners, this role is ideal for someone who enjoys laboratory work, collaboration, and learning the full lifecycle of food innovation.
What You'll Do
  • Conduct routine laboratory, pilot plant, and production tests following established procedures
  • Support bench-top trials, pilot runs, plant trials, and product start-ups
  • Accurately evaluate, document, and organize test results, formulations, and processing parameters
  • Communicate findings, observations, and challenges to project leads
  • Assist with preparation and shipment of R&D samples for internal and customer use
  • Coordinate ingredient and product shipments for trials and testing
  • Maintain laboratory equipment, supplies, and ingredient inventories
  • Keep the lab clean, organized, and GMP-compliant
  • Complete assigned project tasks within established timelines

What We're Looking For
  • High school diploma or equivalent (required)
  • Previous lab or food manufacturing experience preferred
  • Strong attention to detail and organization
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills
  • Comfortable working cross-functionally with scientists and operations teams
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work standing for extended periods
  • Willingness to work in hot and cold environments

EEO Statement:
Winland Foods seeks to recruit, develop, and retain the most talented people from a diverse candidate pool, and as a global company we believe our success is enhanced by fostering equity and inclusion in the workplace. Therefore, Winland Foods is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and teammates without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military or veteran status, and any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

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