Food Science Technicians

Job Zone 3 - Medium preparation needed

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.

Pay & job outlook

Median pay: $52,130/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)

$39,820$78,820

Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.

Job outlook: +4.8% projected growth, 2024–2034 — about as fast as average.

About 3,200 openings per year, on average, over the decade.

Typical entry-level education: Associate's degree.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.

Top skills

Reading ComprehensionWritingSpeakingActive ListeningScienceCritical ThinkingMonitoringCoordinationComplex Problem SolvingQuality Control Analysis

Top knowledge areas

Food ProductionProduction and ProcessingChemistryEnglish LanguageComputers and ElectronicsBiologyMathematicsAdministrative

Core tasks

• 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.

• Perform regular maintenance of laboratory equipment by inspecting, calibrating, cleaning, or sterilizing.

• Examine chemical or biological samples to identify cell structures or to locate bacteria or extraneous material, using a microscope.

Frequently asked questions

What's the median pay for Food Science Technicians?

The median pay for Food Science Technicians is $52,130 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

What's the job outlook for Food Science Technicians?

Employment for Food Science Technicians is projected to change +4.8% from 2024 to 2034 - about as fast as average.

What education is typically required for Food Science Technicians?

Typical entry-level education: Associate's degree.

How many job openings are there each year for Food Science Technicians?

About 3,200 openings per year, on average, over the decade.