Food Science Technicians: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 14,200 food science technicians, and they earn a median of $49,430/year. The range runs from $38K to $75K. Mississippi pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level food science technicians start around $38K. The gap between that and the median ($49K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $75K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Mississippi | $65K | 30 |
| Illinois | $64K | 390 |
| Virginia | $59K | 240 |
| Massachusetts | $57K | 130 |
| Missouri | $56K | 310 |
| Michigan | $53K | 130 |
| Tennessee | $53K | 90 |
| New York | $53K | 750 |
| Kentucky | $52K | 160 |
| New Jersey | $52K | 610 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a food science technicians make?▼
The median food science technicians salary in the United States is $49,430 per year ($24/hour). Entry-level positions start around $37,760, while experienced professionals earn up to $75,100.
What education do you need to become a food science technicians?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for food science technicians?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for food science technicians.
What are the highest paying states for food science technicians?▼
The highest paying states for food science technicians are Mississippi ($64,600), Illinois ($63,730), Virginia ($59,110), Massachusetts ($57,400), Missouri ($55,830). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.