Food Scientist and Technologist
SOC 19-1012.00 · ESCO 2145 · OSCA 244232
Role snapshot
Overview
Researches and tests ingredients, preservation methods, and production processes to develop safe and appealing food products. Conducts laboratory analyses on nutrition, flavour, and shelf life, ensuring compliance with food safety regulations and consumer expectations. This role is critical in bringing innovative and high-quality food products to market.
Contributes to public health and consumer satisfaction by ensuring food products are safe, nutritious, and meet quality standards, while also driving innovation in the food industry.
On the job
- Develop new food products and improve existing ones, considering taste, texture, and nutritional content
- Conduct laboratory experiments to test food safety, quality, and stability under various conditions
- Analyze raw materials and ingredients for compliance with established specifications and regulations
- Design and implement food preservation and processing techniques to extend shelf life and maintain quality
- Ensure all food products and processes comply with local and international food safety and labeling regulations
Tools & technology
Average salary
Job outlook
GrowingJob growth is expected to be above average over the next five years.
Education & training
A bachelor's or master's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Chemistry, or a related scientific field is typically required.
Career pathways
WHERE YOU COULD GO
CURRENT ROLE
Food Scientist and Technologist
Agriculture & Food
ADJACENT MOVES
STARTING POINTS
Who thrives here
Interest profile
investigative · IRC
People who enjoy conducting systematic investigations, working with tangible scientific methods, and adhering to established procedures and quality standards often thrive as Food Scientists and Technologists.
Personality characteristics
Curious
Possesses a strong desire to understand the 'why' behind food properties and processes, constantly seeking new knowledge.
Meticulous
Approaches experiments and analysis with precision and attention to detail, ensuring accuracy and reliability in results.
Focused
Able to concentrate for long periods on complex scientific tasks, often preferring independent work in a lab setting.
Collaborative
Works effectively with R&D teams, production staff, and other departments to achieve shared project goals.
Resilient
Maintains composure and objectivity when experiments yield unexpected results or projects face challenges.
Best for
- Individuals who enjoy applying scientific principles to practical problems in the food industry.
- Those who are precise, analytical, and committed to ensuring food safety and quality.
- People who are motivated by developing innovative products that directly impact consumers.
Watch out for
- Requires high precision and attention to detail, with little room for error in scientific experiments.
- Can involve repetitive testing and analysis, which might not suit those who prefer constant novelty.
A week in the life
A representative working week for a Food Scientist and Technologist — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.
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