Food Science Technician
Food products are tested in laboratories by food science technicians. They might work to make sure that the components on food items match the information on the nutrition labels, test food items for the presence of bacteria that could cause foodborne disease, or create new recipes for delectable food items.
A food science technician is what?
Food science technicians frequently do the duties listed below in their jobs:
- To confirm that the components and quantities in packaged food items match those specified on nutrition information labels, conduct laboratory testing.
- Continually check farmed and packaged foods for bacteria and other components that could cause a foodborne illness if consumed.
- Investigate ingredient combinations to create recipes for tasty food items.
- Record and release test findings.
- Clean facilities and machinery are employed in the food testing procedures.
What a Day Is Like
Assisting food scientists with testing and experiments are food science technicians. They might help with a range of examinations to guarantee the safety of both packaged and naturally grown food.
For instance, they might be in charge of carrying out continuing tests to make sure food is safe to consume.
They look for microorganisms that, if consumed, may result in a foodborne illness. These tests might be performed on animal products, fresh produce, packaged foods, or both.
The testing of packaged goods to make sure that the contents and quantities match the nutritional information labels that appear on their packaging may also be done with the help of food science technicians.
They confirm that the list of ingredients is complete and that the quantities and types of ingredients result in the calorie, fat, and salt counts that are indicated on the labels.
Additionally, they confirm that product contents meet the safety requirements established by laws and regulations governing food distribution.
Alongside food scientists who are in charge of creating new food recipes, other food science technicians are employed.
For instance, food scientists and technicians could collaborate to create brand-new recipes for confectionery, sauces, or canned foods.
These food science technicians create the recipes for novel new food products that may be purchased in supermarkets across the United States while also working in the food production industry.
Regular Work Hours
The majority of food science technologists have regular office hours and full-time schedules. Some people might be expected to work overtime, travel for work, or put in odd hours, but these things don’t happen very often.
Common Employers
Food science technicians frequently work for government organizations like the Food and Drug Administration, for businesses that produce or manufacture food, for academic institutions, or in the agricultural industry.
Getting a Job as a Food Science Technician
With just a high school diploma, it is feasible to work as a food science technician in several fields. However, it’s typically advised to have prior industry expertise.
If you only have a high school diploma, you will need to start in entry-level jobs in the food industry or in agriculture and advance to a position as a food science technician by gaining years of experience.
Although this is undoubtedly a viable option for getting a job in the industry, it will restrict your ability to rise to higher-paying jobs.
Candidates must have an associate’s degree in a related discipline, such as biology, chemistry, or animal science, to be considered for most mid-level food science technician roles.
Students should become familiar with the fundamental elements of food and animal products during their time in college.
They should also spend time in labs conducting tests and studies and learn how to spot harmful bacteria under a microscope. Even without prior professional experience, you ought to be able to obtain a job in the area with an associate’s degree.
Universities and government organizations, for instance, may demand that applicants hold a bachelor’s degree.
The same majors—biology, chemistry, or animal science—that you would have chosen for an associate’s degree are eligible if you choose to pursue a bachelor’s degree.
This is the best career path for people who want to become food scientists in the future or who want to advance into the most senior food science technician roles throughout their careers.
Salary Information for Food Science Technicians
The information below will help you learn more about this profession. The editorial material and recommendations on this page are based on our research, while the income and growth information is based on newly released Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Low Range of National Annual Salary $29,050 Average $39,000 High Range $58,270
Nationwide minimum wage
Low Range: $14/hr; Average Range: $19; High Range: $28/hr
How do the wages of Food Science Technicians compare to those of other positions across the nation?
According to the most recent statistics on employment across the country, food science technicians can earn an average yearly salary of $39,000, or $19 per hour.
It is therefore a Salary Above Average. Depending on the state you live in and even when just starting, they can make as little as $29,050, or $14 per hour.