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Food Testing Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Dental insurance Full Michelson Laboratories is a leading food testing laboratory based in Southern California. Since 1970, Michelson Laboratories has provided efficient testing and analyses to an ...

Microbiology Lab Tech

Turlock, CA · On-site

$21 - $26.25/hr

JOB SUMMARY Prepare samples for analytical and microbiological testing of food products, ingredients, and environmentals. The role is responsible for the application of approved microbiological ...

Microbiology Technician 2

Burbank, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $26.50/hr

JOB SUMMARY Prepare samples for analytical and microbiological testing of food products, ingredients, and environmentals. The role is responsible for the application of approved microbiological ...

Chemistry Lab Tech

Tustin, CA · On-site

$20 - $26.50/hr

JOB SUMMARY Assist in the chemical testing of food products, ingredients, and other matrices with primary functions in solution and reagent preparation, sample homogenization, proximate analysis ...

Lab Technician I

Manteca, CA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Since 1967, Deibel Laboratories has operated several private food testing facilities providing services in both Microbiology and Chemistry testing. We play an integral role in food and product safety ...

Food Safety Net Services (FSNS) - A leading network of ISO-accredited laboratories across North America, focused on food safety testing, operational support, and technical services for the food ...

Food Safety Net Services (FSNS) - A leading network of ISO-accredited laboratories across North America, focused on food safety testing, operational support, and technical services for the food ...

Chemistry Lab Tech

Tustin, CA · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

Food Safety Net Services (FSNS) - A leading network of ISO-accredited laboratories across North America, focused on food safety testing, operational support, and technical services for the food ...

Food Safety Net Services (FSNS) - A leading network of ISO-accredited laboratories across North America, focused on food safety testing, operational support, and technical services for the food ...

Food Safety Net Services (FSNS) - A leading network of ISO-accredited laboratories across North America, focused on food safety testing, operational support, and technical services for the food ...

Microbiology Lab Tech

Turlock, CA · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Food Safety Net Services (FSNS) - A leading network of ISO-accredited laboratories across North America, focused on food safety testing, operational support, and technical services for the food ...

Food Safety Net Services (FSNS) - A leading network of ISO-accredited laboratories across North America, focused on food safety testing, operational support, and technical services for the food ...

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Showing results 1-20

Food Testing information

What is a food testing job?

A Food Testing job involves analyzing food products for safety, quality, and compliance with regulatory standards. Professionals in this field conduct laboratory tests to detect contaminants, verify ingredient composition, and ensure products meet labeling requirements. They may work in food manufacturing, government agencies, or independent laboratories. This role helps ensure that food is safe for consumption and meets industry regulations.

What are the typical daily responsibilities for someone in a food testing role?

A Food Testing professional's daily responsibilities usually include preparing and analyzing food samples, conducting chemical, microbiological, or sensory tests, and accurately documenting results. They frequently use specialized laboratory instruments and follow strict protocols to ensure consistency and quality. Collaboration with quality assurance teams and reporting findings to supervisors or regulatory authorities are also common tasks. This role is crucial for helping companies maintain product safety and comply with food industry regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the food testing position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Food Testing, you need a solid background in food science, chemistry, microbiology, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree or laboratory experience. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, analytical testing methods (such as HPLC, GC-MS), and certifications like HACCP or ISO 17025 are highly valued. Attention to detail, effective communication, and strong problem-solving abilities are crucial soft skills in this field. These competencies ensure accurate analysis, compliance with safety standards, and clear reporting of results for safe food production.

How do you become a food tester?

To become a food tester, candidates typically need a background in food science, nutrition, or a related field, along with good sensory skills and attention to detail. Some positions require training in taste testing procedures and may involve certifications or experience in quality control or food safety. Job opportunities are often found in food manufacturing companies, testing laboratories, or quality assurance departments.

How much do you get paid for food testing?

Food testing jobs typically pay between $12 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the tests. Entry-level positions may start at the lower end, while specialized roles or those requiring certifications can offer higher wages.

What are popular job titles related to Food Testing jobs in California?

For Food Testing jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Food Testing jobs?

Cities in California with the most Food Testing job openings:

Infographic showing various Food Testing job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Benefits

  • 401(k)
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance
  • Dental insurance


Full job description

Michelson Laboratories is a leading food testing laboratory based in Southern California. Since 1970, Michelson Laboratories has provided efficient testing and analyses to an extensive spectrum of customers. We have a broad-based background and are thoroughly proficient in a diverse range of industries.

Our Chemistry Laboratory provides a wide range of services and is staffed with industry leading chemists. We are expanding our Chemistry department in our Commerce location and are looking for a Food Chemist. The Chemist will be responsible for performing analytical testing of food products.

Responsibilities for Senior Chemist:

·Review and approve data for Nutritional Labeling requests for various food products

Perform titrations, extractions and analyze data for antibiotic residues, carcinogens, and other harmful chemical compounds

-Troubleshoot and operate analytical instruments such as LC/MS/MS, HPLC, GC-MS, ICP-MS, ICP-OES, etc.

-Troubleshoot or implement new test methods, ensure overall compliance to all regulatory and QA/QC requirements

-Act as technical resource to other analysts within the department and to our clients

-Prepare and review data packages/reports for reporting

-Assist with special projects, method development and optimization

-Review and update Standard Operating Procedures as needed.

· Preparation of chemical reagents, standards, and samples for analysis

· Maintaining detailed records of testing, quality activities, and chemical preparations

· Ensure all analyses meet the turnaround time

· Other duties as needed

Qualifications for Senior Chemist:

· Master's Degree in Food Science, Analytical Chemistry, or other related sciences required.

· Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills

· Comfortable in a fast-paced environment with minimal direction and able to adjust workload based upon changing priorities

· Ability to organize, prioritize and direct work activities; attention to detail

· Time Management - ability to achieve results within expected time periods

This Food Chemist position is a full-time position. Must have a flexible schedule and be available to work weekends, holidays and overtime as needed.

Michelson Laboratories, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer that does not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, age, veteran status, or any other legally protected status. Our management team is dedicated to this policy with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities and general treatment during employment

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance

Work Location: In person