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.
SOC: 19-4013.00
Common Job Titles
Central Laboratory Technician (CLT)
Laboratory Technician (Lab Tech)
QC Tech (Quality Control Technician)
Quality Assurance Analyst (QA Analyst)
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeEvaluate food product quality and compliance with safety standards by monitoring and documenting test results in laboratory and production environments.
Proficient
KnowledgeExplain technical test results and analytical findings through written reports and verbal communication with supervisors and cross-functional teams.
Proficient
KnowledgeOrganize laboratory workflows and sample testing schedules to optimize resource utilization and meet production deadlines under time constraints.
Proficient
KnowledgeAnalyze physical and chemical properties of food and beverage products using standardized qualitative and quantitative laboratory tests in collaboration with food scientists.
Developing
Hands-onOperate analytical laboratory equipment including spectrophotometers, centrifuge systems, and microscopes following established protocols to ensure accurate measurement of food characteristics.
Developing
Hands-onPerform microbiological testing procedures using aseptic techniques in controlled laboratory settings with culture media, incubators, and colony counters.
Developing
KnowledgeApply chemistry and biology principles to food processing and preservation challenges in support of research and development initiatives for production technology.
Developing
MindsetEngage in training and knowledge transfer with laboratory team members to maintain consistent testing procedures and quality control practices.
Developing
Hands-onCalibrate precision measuring instruments including balances, pH meters, and moisture analyzers ensuring measurement accuracy and equipment maintenance according to regulatory requirements.
Developing
KnowledgeCompare experimental results against established specifications and control parameters using statistical analysis and database software to identify product variations.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Food Science Technicians (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
14,200
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $37,760. 25th percentile: U.S. $43,990. 50th percentile: U.S. $49,430. 75th percentile: U.S. $60,940. 90th percentile: U.S. $75,100. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$37,760
10% of workers earn the following or more
$75,100
Workers on average earn
$54,400
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Food Production3.8/5
Production and Processing3.7/5
Chemistry3.5/5
English Language3.4/5
Computers and Electronics3.1/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
