Explore jobs
Find specific jobs
Explore careers
Explore professions
Best companies
Explore companies
Job outlook for senior food technologists in the United States
Senior food technologist job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected senior food technologist job growth rate is 8% from 2018-2028.
About 3,000 new jobs for senior food technologists are projected over the next decade.
Senior food technologist salaries have increased 15% for senior food technologists in the last 5 years.
There are over 6,836 senior food technologists currently employed in the United States.
There are 94,490 active senior food technologist job openings in the US.
The average senior food technologist salary is $58,083.
Are senior food technologist jobs in demand?
Senior food technologist job and salary trends over time
Senior food technologist jobs over time
Senior food technologist job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 6,836 | 0.00% |
| 2020 | 6,619 | 0.00% |
| 2019 | 6,811 | 0.00% |
| 2018 | 6,745 | 0.00% |
| 2017 | 7,601 | 0.00% |
Average senior food technologist salary over time
Senior food technologist salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | $58,083 | $27.92 | +6.5% |
| 2025 | $54,541 | $26.22 | +5.6% |
| 2024 | $51,639 | $24.83 | +2.6% |
| 2023 | $50,342 | $24.20 | --0.5% |
| 2022 | $50,571 | $24.31 | --2.9% |
Senior food technologist jobs by state
Most common states for senior food technologists
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | South Dakota | 869,666 | 181 | 21% |
| 2 | Alaska | 739,795 | 152 | 21% |
| 3 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 1,349 | 20% |
| 4 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 195 | 19% |
| 5 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 239 | 18% |
| 6 | Maine | 1,335,907 | 221 | 17% |
| 7 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 128 | 17% |
| 8 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 121 | 17% |
| 9 | Vermont | 623,657 | 107 | 17% |
| 10 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 97 | 17% |
| 11 | Indiana | 6,666,818 | 1,075 | 16% |
| 12 | South Carolina | 5,024,369 | 807 | 16% |
| 13 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 169 | 16% |
| 14 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 1,253 | 15% |
| 15 | Kansas | 2,913,123 | 432 | 15% |
| 16 | Delaware | 961,939 | 141 | 15% |
| 17 | Georgia | 10,429,379 | 1,408 | 14% |
| 18 | Tennessee | 6,715,984 | 953 | 14% |
| 19 | Iowa | 3,145,711 | 433 | 14% |
| 20 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 261 | 14% |
Most common cities for senior food technologists
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Elk Grove Village | 1 | 3% | $60,704 |
| 2 | Grand Prairie | 1 | 1% | $45,916 |
| 3 | Greeley | 1 | 1% | $37,797 |
Senior Food Technologist job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of senior food technologist experts
Feather River College
Iowa State University of Science and Technology
University of Missouri - Columbia
Washington State University
The Ohio State University
Western Kentucky University
University of Arizona
Community Food Share
University of Arizona
Institute of Food Technologists
Michigan State University
Texas Woman’s University
Kansas State University
University of Florida
Pennsylvania State University
Pennsylvania State University
Pennsylvania State University
What general advice would you give to a Senior Food Technologist?
Dr. Peiyi Shen: - The field of food science is ever-evolving. It is very important to keep up-to-date with the latest research, technologies, and trends in both the food industry and academia. They are suggested to attend workshops, conferences, and/or pursue related certifications or advanced degrees. - Building professional relationships can open doors to more opportunities. Joining professional organizations such as the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) and participating in industry events provide excellent opportunities to meet people in the same area. - They are encouraged to seek more hand-on and practical experience. For example, internships, co-op programs, and entry-level positions can provide valuable hands-on experience. This can also help you determine which area of food science you are most passionate about. - The food industry is fast-paced and can change rapidly due to the new regulations, consumer trends, and technological advancements. Being flexible and open to change is helpful.
What Senior Food Technologist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Peiyi Shen: - *Data Analysis and Computational Skills:* As big data and AI become increasingly important and popular, being proficient in data analysis, machine learning, and using software like Python can be highly valuable. - *Sustainability Practices:* Knowledge of sustainable food production, waste reduction, and environmental impact will be crucial as the industry moves towards greener practices.
What will help Senior Food Technologists increase their earning potential?
Dr. Peiyi Shen: - Focusing on specialized areas such as flavor chemistry, brewing, biotechnology, or sustainable practices can make you more valuable and less replaceable to other employers. - Obtaining a master’s degree or PhD can lead to higher-paying positions and more advanced career opportunities. - Networking can lead to job opportunities that may not be advertised publicly and can also help in negotiating better salary packages. Establishing a mentorship with experienced professionals can help provide guidance, navigate your career path, and advocate for you within the industry.
Sean Conry
Food Service ManagerFeather River College
Human Development, Family Studies, And Related Services
What general advice would you give to a Senior Food Technologist?
Sean Conry: You can maximize your salary by becoming more diversified in all areas of your field.
What Senior Food Technologist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Sean Conry: Become more familiar with changes in the industry such as new software, automated food production and robotics that will be implemented in the future.
What will help Senior Food Technologists increase their earning potential?
Sean Conry: Gain as much experience as you can in the areas of the field that interest you the most.
Stephanie Clark [HS AD]
Professor EmeritaIowa State University of Science and Technology
Food Science And Technology
What Senior Food Technologist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Stephanie Clark [HS AD]: Food science will ALWAYS be a career option because people need to eat to survive. Currently, efforts are being made to meet specific consumer health, convenience, taste, and sustainability demands, requiring science and innovation.
Andrew Clarke
Program Leader & Undergraduate Advisor ChairUniversity of Missouri - Columbia
Food Science And Technology
What Senior Food Technologist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Andrew Clarke: Knowledge of basic science principles will always be important, but it's critical that new employees become familiar with their own skills, interests, personality traits and comfort with communication. The ability to communicate with other employees is an essential skill regardless of position (whether it's someone working for you, a peer, or someone you report to) within a company. One can get training or learn a skill, but the ability to communicate is essential.
What general advice would you give to a Senior Food Technologist?
Mariana Castro: The food industry generates vast amounts of data, and I believe that in the next 3-5 years, possessing data analytic skills will become increasingly vital and relevant for those working in food science.
Dr. Sheryl Barringer
Professor and Department ChairThe Ohio State University
Department of Food Science and Technology
What skills stand out on Senior Food Technologist resumes?
Dr. Sheryl Barringer: The skills that stand out on a food science resume are experience in product development and undergraduate research. Several students at Ohio State University compete and win in national product development teams every year. We also have a couple dozen students doing research in various labs. These kinds of experiences really set an applicant apart.
What soft skills should all Senior Food Technologists possess?
Dr. Sheryl Barringer: Critical soft skills include problem-solving and the ability to work collaboratively in teams. The issues facing the food industry require expertise in a wide range of areas, and that requires people able to work with colleagues who have different backgrounds. Strong problem-solving skills are required to face the many challenges facing the food industry.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Senior Food Technologists?
Dr. Sheryl Barringer: The critical technical skills in food science are a good understanding of chemistry, engineering, and microbiology.
What skills will help Senior Food Technologists earn the most?
Dr. Sheryl Barringer: Food supply chains are worldwide. Thus, a willingness to travel and relocate, both regionally and internationally, is important.
What soft skills should all Senior Food Technologists possess?
Dr. Luiz Silva Ph.D.: Things change, and they change fast mainly in the technology sector. So, I guess an important skill is to keep searching and learning about the new tool we have available in each segment of the production line.
What Senior Food Technologist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Mary Marian: If a student wants to take a gap year in dietetics, I highly recommend obtaining some experience in the field to show commitment. This also strengthens skill sets, thereby strengthening the individual's resume to make them a more competitive candidate if they apply for grad school or a dietetic internship. If they pursue a dietetic internship, then obtaining the credential nutritionist/dietetic technician registered credential also shows commitment and strengthens their resume.
What general advice would you give to a Senior Food Technologist?
Mary Marian: When beginning your career, several essential aspects are essential for success. You need to show up and do your job well. Be punctual, be a good team player, be creative, and utilize emotional intelligence. Additionally, be open to new opportunities as they may lead to places you've never imagined. Lastly, be passionate about what you do. If you don't like your job, look for new opportunities instead of complaining about it.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Senior Food Technologist job market given the pandemic?
Kim Da Silva:
Job hopping
-Pay stabilizing/plateauing and benefits increasing (mainly to attract and retain employees)
-More remote working leading to a more dispersed group of employees
-Changing methods of employee engagement and employee management
-Challenges with creating a cohesive organizational culture
-Traits of ideal candidates:
Thrive in a team environment but can also be independently self-managed when required
-Able to quickly adapt to changing job requirements with little or no disruption
-Strong, competent interpersonal skills, including the ability to connect easily with people
-Critical thinking skills and cogent problem-solving ability
-Professional demeanor and behavior
-A commitment to always be learning
What general advice would you give to a Senior Food Technologist?
Kim Da Silva: -Less is sometimes more because students sometimes will put more information on a resume than is pertinent to the position applying for.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Senior Food Technologist job market given the pandemic?
Tedley Pihl: One of the primary effects of the pandemic on the food industry has been related to logistics. There is a need to improve the flexibility of food product distribution economically and timely to be shifted from one market to another (from food service to retail outlets). During the beginning of the pandemic, there was not a food shortage but a food distribution issue. The pandemic has likely led to step-function change improvements in this area. Although food companies were aware of the need, the pandemic stepped the focus up.
What has been prior and continues to be during the pandemic is Food Safety professionals' need. We have the safest food supply globally; however, we need technology and research to ensure this. Careers related to Food Safety will only be on the rise. Specifically, degrees in Food Safety, Microbiology, and Food Science.
Along these lines, information specialists that can convert data into conclusions and recommendations will increase in importance. A Food Science major would be wise to take a course in data science.
What skills stand out on Senior Food Technologist resumes?
Tedley Pihl: Data analysis, Microbiology, Internships in applied areas.
What type of skills will young Senior Food Technologists need?
Jennifer Garcia: So, what are companies in the science of food looking for in prospective employees? Simply put, employers are looking for candidates that are well rounded, said Lowell Isom, managing partner for HHI Search, an executive recruiting firm for scientists and engineers. "In the past, there was a pretty clear delineation between the technical talent and those that had the strategic leadership skills," explained Isom. "Now, somebody that's coming in that's running an organization from a leadership standpoint also needs to bring a very specific technical skill set along with him that is still leveraged."
TC Chatterjee, CEO at Griffith Foods, agrees that job seekers need to bring more than just a specific set of technical skills. "It is more than just technical skills; it is those skills in application," explained Chatterjee. Just as important is the job seeker's attitude. "Increasingly, what I think food companies are looking for is the ability of individuals to come in and be additive and accretive in what we are looking to do," said Chatterjee. "Specifically, meeting consumers' needs that are changing dramatically and at a much more rapid pace means that we, as food companies, have to be equipped to meet those needs of our customers-in our case, food manufacturers-and then their customers-the ultimate consumers. That requires an additional level of speed. If that's the ask, then we are looking for people who enable us to be that much faster without compromising on the quality of what it is we are putting together."
Diversity is another aspect that employers look for when making hiring decisions. "We are looking for people, increasingly as a food industry, that bring their values and their whole self to work," said Chatterjee. Because, as Isom explained, "a diverse workforce is more productive, more innovative, and provides a culturally rich experience for employees." But, Isom also noted that it isn't an easy task, and one thing that we may learn coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic is "what organizations really valued diversity and gave it a focused initiative and those that were just really looking to fill seats
Jeffrey Swada Ph.D.
Director of Undergraduate Studies Director of Undergraduate Food Science Program Associate Professor, Food Science Advisor Food Processing Complex Manager and Mobile Lab LiaisonMichigan State University
Dietetics And Clinical Nutrition Services
What general advice would you give to a Senior Food Technologist?
Jeffrey Swada Ph.D.: In the COVID era, starting your career will be different. Keep in mind that even during a pandemic, everyone needs to eat, and more than ever, we need food scientists to ensure that we have a stable supply chain. MSU has designed their food science program to give students a firm foundation with a background in chemistry, microbiology, physics, biology, engineering, food safety, food chemistry, sensory science, product development, and many other critical food science areas. This firm and broad foundation allows students to enter many different sectors of the food industry. So, be patient, take advantage of opportunities, and know that many career possibilities are waiting for you as a Spartan! Go Green!
What technology do you think will become more important and prevalent for Senior Food Technologists in the next 3-5 years?
Jeffrey Swada Ph.D.: I believe that automation will become more and more prevalent. Look at the fast-food industry; for instance, with COVID, everyone is ordering online and using contact-free pickups. The same goes for the food industry. As we need to feed a growing population, it will be critical to automate processing lines to meet consumer demands. This is already being done, but I am sure automated processes will become more and more advanced. This will also be true not only for production volume but to ensure safe, quality products.
How would you rate the starting salaries for Senior Food Technologists, as well as the prospects for salary advancement?
Jeffrey Swada Ph.D.: Salary prospects are strong. With a bachelor's degree in food science, students can obtain a competitive starting salary. There is also much room for growth as you are promoted within a company. The Institute of Food Technologists has statistics on wages based on geographical location.
What Senior Food Technologist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Jeffrey Swada Ph.D.: I would recommend to students to first build your resume before graduating. Doing internships, research, studying abroad, participating in clubs such as food science club, Product Development team, College Bowl, and other experiential learning opportunities are key. By having a great foundation, this will make you more competitive and stand out amongst other applicants and thus will lead to a better starting salary. Once employed, I'd recommend to go above and beyond to impress your employer. If you are willing to put in the work, go beyond your comfort zone, move up in the company, this will result in a higher pay raise. You can also go back and get a masters degree to make yourself even more desirable.
James Adams
Adjunct ProfessorTexas Woman’s University
Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences
What general advice would you give to a Senior Food Technologist?
James Adams: The advice that I have been giving my graduating seniors that will be entering the food industry is this:
1) Need to understand that the pandemic has changed the landscape in regard to securing positions for students just entering the job market
a) Competition for jobs will be enhanced due to the entry of highly-qualified laid off or furloughed workers due to force reductions
b) Entry in the job marketplace may require opening the range of positions you were trying to obtain and not be so narrow in your search.
1. The new applicant may be qualified for a job that is not their first preference, but may open the door to a future job change and higher position within a chosen food company
2. They may realize that this is the right position and may lead to them embracing this field of emphasis.
2) Need to understand if there is a need to stay in school and work toward an advanced degree that would set them apart from some of the competition.
3) Need to be flexible in salary, travel requirements, and location. Youth is in their favor.
How would you rate the starting salaries for Senior Food Technologists, as well as the prospects for salary advancement?
James Adams: Beginning salaries for Food Industry and Culinary students graduating with a BS are good in comparison to other disciplines. Of course, it is understandable that entry-level with an advanced degree is higher than those without an advanced degree. In the past, when I was a hiring manager, it was recognized that a master's degree equated to 3-5 years of work experience and a doctorate equated to 8-10 years of work experience.
It is also well known that the salaries in certain parts of the food industry are different and, in some cases, may influence the decision as to what part of the industry the student would like to be a part of, moving forward. Whether it can be proven, I cannot say, but the unwritten understanding is that the chocolate/candy/confection sections of the food industry pay higher starting salaries than, say, the meat or vegetable processing part of our business.
The great thing about the food industry is that there are opportunities that open up for advancement, growth, and learning every day since the landscape is ever-changing. As responsibility increases, salaries follow.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Senior Food Technologists to find work opportunities?
Sajid Alavi Ph.D.: The geographical locations where food science and technology will be available in the next several years would probably not change much. Locations near big cities (not necessarily in the cities) are where a lot of jobs are concentrated, be it the east or west coast, or other parts such as the midwest.
How do you envision technology impacting Senior Food Technologists in the next 5 years?
Sajid Alavi Ph.D.: Technology will move and more towards rapid detection of food safety and quality-related challenges, and addressing them through new and faster tests for microbial contamination, better sensors and control systems, and also improved consistency of raw materials. New fields and applications, such as plant-based foods (including plant-based meat) and 3-D printing of foods will also be increasing rapidly. Sustainability in terms of raw material (use of new ingredients that require less water and other resources for growing), processing (less energy and water usage), and packaging (bio-based or biodegradable) will also be another area where technology-driven innovation will take place.
Dr. Jeanette Andrade
Assistant ProfessorUniversity of Florida
Food Science and Human Nutrician Department
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Senior Food Technologists?
Dr. Jeanette Andrade: This depends on how one was affected by the pandemic and their views on this matter. Many may view this as an opportunity to develop new skills, during their academic years, by enhancing their professionalism by using various forms of technology - social media, learning platforms, etc. They may identify unique ways to enhance their opportunities for their ideal career upon graduation.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Senior Food Technologists to find work opportunities?
Dr. Jeanette Andrade: In at least the field of dietetics, there are opportunities for employment within clinical and community. There may be more part-time employment opportunities now compared to full-time, dependent on what specific area the graduate is interested in, and the search may take a bit longer, dependent on the area the graduate wants to live, but there are positions available.
How do you envision technology impacting Senior Food Technologists in the next 5 years?
Dr. Jeanette Andrade: It is impacting our field currently. Pre-COVID, limited dietitians were utilizing telemedicine to assess and counsel their clients. However, during COVID, many more dietitians were using telemedicine as a form to communicate with their clients. I envision that many more dietitians post-COVID will be utilizing telemedicine with their clients as their clients may prefer this approach to a physical presence approach. I believe that dietitians will need to become more creative in the ways that they are using technology and may need to adapt to where the medical field will go with technology.
What Senior Food Technologist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
John Coupland Ph.D.: Whether the economy is doing well or doing poorly people still need to eat. The industry is constantly changing to meet new demands for taste, sustainability, and safety so creative problem solvers will always be in demand.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Senior Food Technologists?
Darrell Cockburn Ph.D.: Like other economic disruptions, I think this will be temporary, and employment levels will eventually recover. Students with University degrees have positioned themselves to be at the forefront of that recovery as their skills will have them in demand as businesses start hiring again.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Senior Food Technologists to find work opportunities?
Darrell Cockburn Ph.D.: Food Science is a remarkably stable field for graduates to find employment in as it is a relatively recession-proof industry; even at the worst of times, people still need to eat. Places with vital food industries, particularly with large companies, will be the best to weather the storm. Here in Pennsylvania, we have a robust food processing industry, and our Food Science graduates have continued to be successful in finding employment.
Dr. Chris Sigler
Assistant Teaching Professor/Academic AdvisorPennsylvania State University
Food Science
What general advice would you give to a Senior Food Technologist?
Dr. Chris Sigler: I would stress that food is a commonality all humans share. The education and skill set acquired in a Food Science Degree are going to be needed, more than ever, moving forward, to critically examine and analyze how to approach new concerns and opportunities left in the wake of the pandemic.
Being able to adapt and modify how to connect, collaborate, and share information and resources to better themselves, their colleagues, their employers, and the field of food science, in general, will be critical moving forward.