Food Lab Tech Job Description
Food techs perform vital technical and testing functions that help make retail food safe for consumption. Food lab techs average almost $40,000, and U.S. salaries range from $25,000 to almost $50,000 yearly. This opportunity filled career requires patience, accuracy and specialized education.
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Education
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Most science techs need formal postsecondary education, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Laboratories typically look for individuals with an associate's degree. A certificate in applied science, or science-related certificate is also accepted by some laboratories. Applicants must be able to apply scientific as well as mathematical formulas to test food, fibers or food additives, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Duties
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Food lab technicians conduct qualitative as well as quantitative tests on raw or prepared food products. Food lab techs prepare and test food recipes and must supply food handlers with the information regarding taste, marketability, safety and quality. Food lab techs must provide product-specific information as well as quantity information. Techs usually enter the information on a computer. Techs must possess good verbal and communication skills.
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Food Regulation
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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration regulates food handlers. Food lab techs provide food and handling safety instructions to individuals who'll prepare meals or freeze them so they can be prepared by consumers, Food lab technicians who adhere to company guidelines and assist the laboratory that provides information that helps keep consumers safe and avert potential health or safety recalls are an invaluable asset. Techs who do their jobs well have the opportunity to advance.
Types
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Food lab techs can either specialize in the field or test several products. Some food testers test drinks, syrups or liquid forms of food and drink. Other specialize in raw food products or prepared food. There are even food lab techs who specialize in testing pet food.
Hours
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Laboratories test so many types of food or beverages that flexible hours are part of the business. Depending on where a food lab tech works, she may work full-time or part-time hours. Some laboratories are open on weekends. Large laboratories also have two or three shifts.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Food image by Yvonne Bogdanski from Fotolia.com
