Food Science Technicians
Work with food scientists or technologists to perform standardized qualitative and quantitative tests to determine physical or chemical properties of food or beverage products. Includes technicians who assist in research and development of production technology, quality control, packaging, processing, and use of foods.
Food Science Technicians earn a median of $25.06/hr — about $52,000 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn $19.14/hr; the top 10% earn $37.89/hr. (Annual figures are approximate: hourly × 2,080.)
What you'd actually do
- Taste or smell foods or beverages to ensure that flavors meet specifications or to select samples with specific characteristics.
- Measure, test, or weigh bottles, cans, or other containers to ensure that hardness, strength, or dimensions meet specifications.
- Maintain records of testing results or other documents as required by state or other governing agencies.
- Monitor and control temperature of products.
- Analyze test results to classify products or compare results with standard tables.
- Record or compile test results or prepare graphs, charts, or reports.
How you get there
Typical entry-level education: Associate degree. Overall preparation: medium preparation (Job Zone 3 of 5).
The feel of the work
The work splits time indoors and out; time pressure is a real part of the job; precision matters — small details carry weight. (Compared against the other 818 careers in the guide.)
Working for yourself
About 6.7% of food science technicians are self-employed.
Who it tends to fit
This work tends to fit people who are hands-on, organized and detail-focused and analytical.
Work a simulated shift in this job — freeMake the real decisions this job involves, then see what your choices say about you.Related careers
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Quick questions
- How much does a food science technician make?
- The median pay is $25.06 per hour — roughly $52,000 a year, with the real range running from about $19.14/hr (10th percentile) to $37.89/hr (90th percentile). Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- Do you need a degree to be a food science technician?
- The typical entry-level education is: Associate degree. Overall preparation level: medium preparation (Job Zone 3 of 5).
- What does a food science technician actually do all day?
- Taste or smell foods or beverages to ensure that flavors meet specifications or to select samples with specific characteristics. Measure, test, or weigh bottles, cans, or other containers to ensure that hardness, strength, or dimensions meet specifications. Maintain records of testing results or other documents as required by state or other governing agencies.
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