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
SOC: 19-4013 O*NET: 19-4013.00
Median Salary
$49,430
per year
Job Growth
📈 4.8%
Faster (2024-2034)
Annual Openings
3.2
projected jobs/year
Education Level
Vocational school, on-the-job training, or associate degree
Job Zone 3
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.
Overview
Compensation & Benefits
Salary Distribution by Percentile
Understanding where you might fall in the salary range based on experience and location.
10th
$29,658
25th
$39,544
50th (Median)
$49,430
75th
$59,316
90th
$74,145
Percentile Explained: If you're in the 75th percentile, you earn more than 75% of workers in this occupation. Entry-level positions typically fall in the 10th-25th percentile range, while experienced professionals often reach the 75th-90th percentile.
Typical Benefits Package
Health & Wellness
- ✓Health Insurance
- ✓Dental Insurance
- ✓Vision Insurance
- ✓Mental Health Support
- ✓Wellness Programs
Financial Benefits
- ✓401(k) Retirement Plan
- ✓Employer Match (typically 3-6%)
- ✓Profit Sharing
- ✓Stock Options
- ✓Performance Bonuses
Work-Life Balance
- ✓Paid Time Off (15-25 days)
- ✓Paid Sick Leave
- ✓Flexible Work Arrangements
- ✓Remote Work Options
- ✓Parental Leave
Professional Development
- ✓Tuition Reimbursement
- ✓Professional Certifications
- ✓Conference Attendance
- ✓Training Programs
- ✓Mentorship Opportunities
Note: Benefits vary widely by employer, company size, and location. Large corporations and tech companies often offer more comprehensive packages, while small businesses may offer fewer benefits but more flexibility. Always review the complete compensation package, not just base salary.
Job Market Intelligence
Job Market Intelligence
Medium Demand
Market demand
Medium Risk
Automation risk
Current Employment
National Employment:20,400
10-Year Outlook
Growth Rate:+4.8%
Annual Openings:3,200
Employment Projections
2024 (Current)20,400
Current
2034 (Projected)21,300
+4.8%
+1,000
Employment Change
+4.8%
Growth Rate
10
Year Projection
Growth Category: As fast as average
Key Growth Factors
- •Average growth expected
Top Skills
✓
Reading Comprehension
Reading Comprehension
✓
Writing
Writing
✓
Active Listening
Active Listening
✓
Speaking
Speaking
✓
Science
Science
✓
Critical Thinking
Critical Thinking
✓
Coordination
Coordination
✓
Monitoring
Monitoring
✓
Quality Control Analysis
Quality Control Analysis
✓
Complex Problem Solving
Complex Problem Solving
Key Knowledge Areas
✓
Food Production
✓
Production and Processing
✓
Chemistry
✓
English Language
✓
Computers and Electronics
✓
Biology
✓
Mathematics
Education & Training
Education Required
Vocational school, on-the-job training, or associate degree
Experience Required
Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience required
Job Training
Training of more than one year