Nature of the Work

Food science technicians assist food scientists and technologists in research and development, production technology, and quality control. For example, food science technicians may conduct tests on food additives and preservatives to ensure compliance with Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations regarding color, texture, and nutrients. These technicians analyze, record, and compile test results; order supplies to maintain laboratory inventory; and clean and sterilize laboratory equipment.

Watch this DragonflyTV video, courtesy of pbskidsgo.org, to see how food and science combine to make a yummy career.

Work Environment

Most food science technicians work indoors, often in laboratories, and have regular hours. Some occasionally work irregular hours to monitor experiments that cannot be completed during regular working hours. Technicians directly involved in food production may work in 8-hour shifts around the clock.

Advances in automation and information technology require technicians to operate more-sophisticated laboratory equipment. Food science technicians are likely to make extensive use of computers, electronic measuring equipment, and traditional experimental apparatus.

Training, Other Qualifications

Most jobs in this career track require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree. Some may require a bachelor's degree.

Education and Training

Many employers prefer applicants who have at least 2 years of specialized training or an associate degree in applied science or science-related technology.

People interested in becoming food science technicians should take as many high school science and math courses as possible. Science courses taken beyond high school, in an associate or bachelor’s degree program, should be laboratory-oriented, with an emphasis on bench skills. A solid background in applied chemistry, biology, and math is vital.

Whatever their education, food science technicians usually begin work as trainees under the direct supervision of a scientist or a more-experienced technician. As they gain experience, technicians take on more responsibility and carry out assignments under only general supervision, and some eventually become supervisors.

Other Qualifications

Communication skills are important because technicians are often required to report their findings both orally and in writing. In addition, food science technicians should be able to work well with others.

Organizational ability, an eye for detail, and skill in interpreting scientific results are important, as are a high mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and analytical thinking.

On the Job

Typical tasks for a food science technician might include some of the following:

• Conduct standardized tests on food, beverages, additives, and preservatives to ensure compliance with standards and regulations regarding factors like color, texture, and nutrients.
• Provide assistance to food scientists and technologists in research and development, production technology, and quality control.
• Compute moisture or salt content, percentages of ingredients, formulas, or other product factors, using mathematical and chemical procedures.
• Record and compile test results, and prepare graphs, charts, and reports.
• Clean and sterilize laboratory equipment.
• Analyze test results to classify products, or compare results with standard tables.
• Taste or smell foods or beverages to ensure that flavors meet specifications, or to select samples with specific characteristics.
• Examine chemical and biological samples to identify cell structures and to locate bacteria, or extraneous material, using a microscope.
• Mix, blend, or cultivate ingredients to make reagents or to manufacture food or beverage products.
• Measure, test, and weigh bottles, cans, and other containers to ensure that hardness, strength, and dimensions meet certain specifications.

Source: BLS, O*Net

Companies That Hire Food Science Technicians

• General Mills
• Kraft Foods
• Pinnacle Foods Group, LLC

Ask Questions

Do you have a specific question about a career in Cooking & Food Science that isn't answered on this page? Post your question on Science Buddies Ask an Expert Forum.

Additional Information

• Institute of Food Technologists: www.ift.org

Sources

• BLS. (2009). Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH), 2008-09 Edition, Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved May 1, 2009, from http://www.bls.gov/oco/
• O*Net Online. (2009). National Center for O*Net Development. Retrieved May 1, 2009, from http://online.onetcenter.org/
• TPT. (2006). Real Scientists. DragonflyTV, Twin Cities Public Television. Retrieved July 28, 2009, from http://pbskids.org/dragonflytv/scientists/scientist5.html

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