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Opt Student Food Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Pennsylvania State University

Students who are energetic, professional, and passionate about their experiences within the Food Science program and the broader field of Food Science are strongly encouraged to apply.

The Pennsylvania State University

CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with ... AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS The Food Science Department is seeking to hire students to serve as "Food ...

CIA

Food Science Adjunct

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$3K/wk

Introduction to Food Science - 3 credits This course provides an introduction to the physical and ... Students will take the National Restaurant Association ServSafe ® examination in this course.

The Pennsylvania State University

$13 - $17.75/hr

CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with ... The Food Science Department is uniquely positioned in the College of Agricultural Sciences to ...

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How much do opt student food science jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for opt student food science in the United States is $22.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $28.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an OPT Student in Food Science, and why are they important?

To thrive as an OPT Student in Food Science, you need a solid background in food science principles, laboratory techniques, and data analysis, typically gained through a relevant degree program. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, food safety standards (like HACCP), and data analysis software such as SPSS or Excel is often required. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you collaborate with teams and manage research projects efficiently. These skills are vital for ensuring accurate research, compliance with safety standards, and successful integration into professional food science environments.

What types of projects or tasks can an OPT Student in Food Science expect to work on during their assignment?

As an OPT Student in Food Science, you can expect to participate in a variety of hands-on projects such as assisting with food product development, conducting laboratory analyses, and supporting quality assurance processes. You'll often collaborate with senior food scientists and cross-functional teams, gaining exposure to both research and practical application in food safety, sensory evaluation, and regulatory compliance. These experiences provide valuable insight into industry practices and help build critical skills for future career advancement in food science.

What are Opt Student Food Science jobs?

Opt Student Food Science jobs are positions held by international students in the United States who are studying or have graduated with a degree in Food Science and are working under Optional Practical Training (OPT). These roles provide practical experience related to food safety, product development, quality assurance, or research in the food industry. OPT allows students to gain hands-on knowledge in their field of study and apply classroom learning to real-world settings. These jobs can be at food manufacturing companies, research labs, or regulatory agencies. OPT typically lasts for up to 12 months, with an extension possibility for STEM graduates.

What is the difference between Opt Student Food Science vs Food Technologist?

AspectOpt Student Food ScienceFood Technologist
Required CredentialsEnrollment in food science program, possibly internship experienceBachelor's degree in food science, food technology, or related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, food production settingsFood manufacturing plants, quality control labs, R&D departments
Employer & Industry UsageInternship or temporary student roles in food companies or research institutionsFull-time roles in food companies, processing plants, or regulatory agencies

Opt Student Food Science roles typically involve internships or temporary positions for students studying food science, focusing on gaining practical experience. Food Technologists are full-time professionals responsible for product development, quality assurance, and process improvements in the food industry. While both roles require knowledge of food science, the main difference lies in the level of experience and employment status.

Infographic showing various Opt Student Food Science job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,976 per year, or $22.6 per hour.
Food Science Advocates

Food Science Advocates

The Pennsylvania State University

Part-time

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.For additional information on remote work at Penn State, seeNotice to Out of State Applicants.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

The Food Science Department is seeking undergraduate students to serve as "Food Science Advocates" in support of departmental outreach, recruitment, and student engagement initiatives.

Students who are energetic, professional, and passionate about their experiences within the Food Science program and the broader field of Food Science are strongly encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities include:

Assisting with prospective student outreach by meeting with students and their families, both in-person and virtually, to lead tours of the Food Science Department facilities and share personal experiences related to academics, student involvement, undergraduate research, internships, product development, sensory evaluation, Food Science Club activities, and other opportunities within the program. Virtual engagement through platforms such as Microsoft Teams and Zoom may also be required. While most tours will take place within the Food Science Building, some may extend throughout Ag Hill and University Park. A general familiarity with key campus locations such as the Library, HUB-Robeson Center, Lion Shrine, Beaver Stadium, and Campus Recreation facilities is preferred.

Representing the Food Science Department at departmental and college recruitment events, including Bite of Food Science webinars, A Taste of Food Science events, Penn State Day, Plant Yourself in Ag Day, Admitted Students Events (ASE), Interest Days, Spend A Summer Day (SASD), New Student Orientation (NSO), Commonwealth Campus programs, and related outreach initiatives.

Supporting the department's social media and digital recruitment efforts through platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and related channels. Students should have an interest in content creation, photography, videography, storytelling, interviewing, and highlighting experiences within the department for recruitment and promotional purposes.

Assisting with additional recruitment, outreach, and student engagement initiatives as needed. This position may occasionally require travel to off-site locations or events. Students selected for the role must maintain a professional and positive representation of the Food Science Department and the University.

*Academic success, personal well-being, and health will always remain the priority for students serving in this role, and flexibility will be provided whenever possible to support those needs. At the same time, recruitment and outreach remain strategic priorities within the Food Science Department, and students selected for this position are expected to communicate professionally and make their best effort to honor scheduled commitments, events, and responsibilities associated with the role.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

This position requires the following clearances in addition to applicable background checks: PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.

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About Pennsylvania State University

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Pennsylvania State University, often referred to as Penn State, is a major, public, research-intensive university located in University Park, PA, US. This esteemed institution serves as an important player within the education industry, offering a plethora of academic programs across various disciplines. The university was founded in 1855 with the mission to provide quality education, advanced research, and service to society. Penn State holds firmly to values of integrity, respect, and excellence, fostering a diverse and inclusive community. The university is renowned for its research productivity and its high-ranking programs in areas like engineering, business, and education. One notable achievement of the institution is its designation as a "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity," demonstrating its commitment to scholarship and discovery.

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Company size

11 - 50 Employees

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University Park, PA, US

Year founded

1855

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