How to Become a Food Scientists and Technologists in California
Food Scientists and Technologists in California earn a median salary of $85,480/year, which is 0% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~4.8%. After taxes and rent, a food scientists and technologists takes home approximately $3,958/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a food scientists and technologists can afford in California
Becoming a food scientists and technologists in California
Meet education requirements
Food Scientists and Technologists positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many food scientists and technologists positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for food scientists and technologistss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 2,350 food scientists and technologists. The highest concentrations are in San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont and San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara.
Food Scientists and Technologists salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $106K | $50.81/hr | 360 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $89K | $42.96/hr | — |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $87K | $41.92/hr | 160 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $85K | $40.78/hr | 620 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $84K | $40.21/hr | 70 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $83K | $39.94/hr | 90 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $83K | $39.79/hr | 40 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $82K | $39.52/hr | 120 |
| Modesto | $82K | $39.3/hr | 90 |
| Visalia | $81K | $39.11/hr | 80 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $79K | $38.2/hr | 40 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $79K | $37.94/hr | 80 |
| Merced | $77K | $37.19/hr | 30 |
| Napa | $75K | $36.06/hr | 100 |
| Fresno | $74K | $35.42/hr | 110 |
Food Scientists and Technologists salary range in California
Food Scientists and Technologists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a food scientists and technologists make in California?▼
The median food scientists and technologists salary in California is $85,480 per year ($41.1/hr). This is 0% above the national median of $85,310. Salaries range from $57,400 to $133,930.
What are the requirements to become a food scientists and technologists in California?▼
Food Scientists and Technologists positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a food scientists and technologists afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $85,480, a food scientists and technologists in California would take home approximately $5,370/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 26.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for food scientists and technologists in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for food scientists and technologists in California are San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($105,670), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($89,360), Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario ($87,200). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for food scientists and technologists?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.8%. On a $85,480 salary, this means roughly $4,087/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.