How to become a food science technologist

Is becoming a food science technologist right for me?

The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:

Overview
What do food science technologists do?
Career Satisfaction
Are food science technologists happy with their careers?
Personality
What are food science technologists like?

Still unsure if becoming a food science technologist is the right career path? to find out if this career is right for you. Perhaps you are well-suited to become a food science technologist or another similar career!

Described by our users as being “shockingly accurate”, you might discover careers you haven’t thought of before.

How to become a Food Science Technologist

To become a food science technologist, you can follow these steps:

  • Educational Background: Obtain a Bachelor's Degree in Food Science, Food Technology, or a closely related field. Look for programs accredited by relevant bodies to ensure a comprehensive education.
  • Gain Practical Experience: Seek internships or co-op programs during your undergraduate studies to gain hands-on experience in food manufacturing or quality control settings. Practical exposure is crucial for developing skills in quality assurance and production processes.
  • Specialize if Desired: Consider specializing in a specific area such as quality control, food safety, or sensory evaluation. Some technologists may also choose to focus on specific food categories like dairy, bakery, or meat processing.
  • Build Technical Skills: Develop proficiency in laboratory techniques, quality control methods, and food safety protocols. Familiarize yourself with industry-standard tools and equipment used in food manufacturing.
  • Stay Informed About Regulations: Stay updated on food safety regulations, quality standards, and industry best practices. Familiarity with regulatory requirements is essential for implementing effective quality control measures.
  • Apply for Entry-Level Positions: Look for entry-level positions in food manufacturing companies, quality control labs, or regulatory agencies. These roles may include positions such as quality control technician, food safety coordinator, or production technologist.
  • Consider Certifications: While not always mandatory, certifications can enhance your qualifications. Certifications related to quality control, food safety, or HACCP can be valuable for a food science technologist.
  • Build a Strong Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your educational background, relevant coursework, practical experience, and any specialized skills or certifications. Emphasize your hands-on experience in food manufacturing or quality control settings.

Certifications
Obtaining relevant certifications can enhance your qualifications and demonstrate expertise in specific areas related to food safety, quality control, and production. Here are some certifications that may be beneficial for food science technologists:

  • Certified Food Protection Professional (CFPP): Offered by the Association of Food and Drug Officials (AFDO), the CFPP certification focuses on food protection and regulatory compliance. It is designed for professionals involved in food safety and sanitation.
  • Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) Certification: Various organizations, including the International HACCP Alliance, offer certifications related to HACCP. This certification is particularly relevant for those involved in implementing and managing HACCP systems in food processing.
  • Certified Professional in Food Safety (CP-FS): Administered by the National Environmental Health Association (NEHA), the CP-FS certification is suitable for professionals responsible for ensuring food safety in manufacturing, distribution, and retail settings.
  • Quality Assurance and Control Certifications: Certifications related to quality control and assurance, such as those offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ), can be beneficial for individuals focused on maintaining and improving product quality.
  • Safe Quality Food (SQF) Certification: SQF certification is recognized globally and demonstrates adherence to rigorous food safety and quality standards. It may be relevant for those involved in quality control and safety management.
  • Preventive Controls for Human Food (PCQI) Certification: As mandated by the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), the PCQI certification is valuable for individuals responsible for developing and implementing preventive controls in food safety.
  • Certified Food Scientist (CFS) - Advanced Level: While the Certified Food Scientist designation is often associated with food scientists, there is an advanced level of certification that may be pursued by professionals with substantial experience in food science and technology.