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Opt Student Food Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

University of Kentucky

Visiting Student

Lexington, KY · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

ANIMAL AND FOOD SCIENCES Work Location Lexington, KY Salary Range Varies Type of Position Student Position Time Status Part-Time Required Education None Required Related Experience None Required ...

The Pennsylvania State University

$61K - $89K/yr

CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with ... Support strategic initiatives of the Department of Food Science and the College of Agricultural ...

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All JobsOpt Student Food Science Jobs

Opt Student Food Science information

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$12

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$33

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

As of Jun 8, 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.
Visiting Student

Visiting Student

University of Kentucky

Lexington, KY • On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 2 days ago

University Of Kentucky rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 131 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

262nd of 534 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Posting Details
Posting Details
Job Title
Visiting Student
Requisition Number
DU11153
Department Name
81070:ANIMAL AND FOOD SCIENCES
Work Location
Lexington, KY
Salary Range
Varies
Type of Position
Student
Position Time Status
Part-Time
Required Education
None
Required Related Experience
None
Required License/Registration/Certification
None
Physical Requirements
Sitting at computer work station for long periods of time, Standing for long periods of time, Repetitive motion, Burns/Cuts/Puncture
Shift
Sitting at computer work station for long periods of time, Standing for long periods of time, Burns/Cuts/Punctures, Repetitive motion
Job Summary
Various research assistance and animal food science project contributions.
Skills / Knowledge / Abilities
Basic science background - no skills required
Does this position have supervisory responsibilities?
No
Preferred Education/Experience
None
Deadline to Apply
12/31/2026
Our University Community
We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.
The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.
Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.

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About University of Kentucky

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Kentucky (UK), the state's flagship university, was founded in 1865 and its beautiful, sprawling campus, nestled in downtown Lexington, now covers over 900 acres and is home to more than 30,000 students and approximately 13,500 employees. The trees and beautifully manicured greenspaces are a source of pride for the university and combine to create an impressive oasis amidst the busy cityscape that surrounds it.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Lexington, KY, US

Year founded

1865

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