Food Science Option

THE JOBS AND CAREERS THAT COME WITH A FOOD SCIENCE EDUCATION

Explore the Science Behind What We Eat — and Shape the Future of Food 

Food Science and Sustainable Technologies combines science, engineering, and innovation to improve the way we produce, process, package, and preserve food and beverages. In this field, you’ll learn how to make food safer, healthier, more sustainable, and more enjoyable — from farm to table and beyond. Whether you're passionate about solving global food challenges, developing the next big food product, or advancing sustainability in the food industry, this program gives you the tools to make a real impact.

Food Science is a dynamic and versatile field that opens the door to a wide range of specialized career paths. Below is a list of potential jobs and brief descriptions to help you explore where this degree can take you:

Food Scientist / Food Technologist

• Develop new food products

• Improve flavor, shelf life, nutrition, and safety

• Work in R&D for food companies

Quality Assurance (QA) / Quality Control (QC) Specialist

• Ensure food products meet safety and regulatory standards

• Monitor production processes and product consistency

Sensory Scientist

• Design taste panels and consumer testing

• Analyze data to guide product improvement based on sensory feedback

Food Safety Specialist / Microbiologist

• Test for pathogens, allergens, and spoilage organisms

• Develop sanitation protocols and manage HACCP plans

Product Development Scientist

• Create and refine recipes, formulas, and processes

• Collaborate with marketing teams to bring innovations to market

Regulatory Affairs Specialist

• Ensure compliance with FDA, USDA, and international regulations

• Prepare documentation, label claims, and support product approval

Packaging Scientist

• Design packaging to optimize safety, sustainability, and shelf life

• Test packaging materials for compatibility and performance

Bioprocessing Engineer

• Design and scale biologically-based food production systems

• Work with enzymes, probiotics, and plant-based proteins

Molecular Biologist / Genetic Engineer

• Engineer microbes or GMOs for improved food production

• Develop biotech solutions like dairy enzymes and meat alternatives

R&D Scientist (Biotech)

• Innovate technologies like cell-based meats or precision fermentation

• Research functional, sustainable, and novel food ingredients

Synthetic Biologist

• Design biological systems to create food components

• Develop lab-grown flavors, colors, and nutrients

Production Management

• Oversee daily food manufacturing operations

• Manage teams, schedules, and facility performance

• Ensure safety, efficiency, and output goals are met

Research Support

• Assist with lab experiments and pilot plant trials

• Prepare materials and maintain data collection processes

Teaching

• Instruct students or professionals in food science disciplines

• Develop curricula and hands-on educational experiences

High Pressure Processing (HPP) Technician

• Operate high-pressure equipment to preserve food

• Maintain food quality and safety without heat or preservatives

Food Labeling Specialist

• Create nutrition panels and ingredient lists

• Ensure compliance with labeling laws and allergen declarations

Consultant (Food Industry)

• Advise companies on food safety, development, and strategy

• Provide customized, science-based recommendations

Production Flow Analyst

• Design and optimize production line layouts

• Improve processing efficiency and reduce bottlenecks

Analytical Testing Technician

• Perform chemical, physical, and microbiological food tests

• Support quality control, research, and regulatory needs

Packaging Technologist

• Develop and evaluate packaging to protect and preserve food

• Ensure regulatory compliance and environmental sustainability

Sanitation Specialist

• Design and manage cleaning and hygiene programs

• Train staff and maintain documentation for audits and compliance

Crop Rotation Planner (Agri-Food Systems)

• Plan crop cycles to support sustainable food production

• Improve soil health, reduce pests, and maintain yield

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