This is somewhat medical career in which the food science technician is supposed to conduct tests in order to decide on the physical or chemical chattels of food, beverages, etc., thereby ensuring the compulsory compliance with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations concerning color, texture, and nutrient qualities of food items.
There are a number of functions that food science technicians have to perform:
- They need to examine, document and assemble test results
- Clean and disinfect lab equipment
- Measure and check the product containers to make certain that they convene the product specifications
- Scrutinize the test results
- Detect or review the problems with food products
- Recording and storing information in the computers
- Some employers prefer two years of specialized training
- Others prefer an associate's degree
- Some may demand a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or Biology
- A degree with science and math courses may also be preferred
Communication skills are also important for a food science technician because technicians are frequently required to report their examinations and scrutiny both in writing and orally. Additionally, technicians should also be able to work well in close cooperation with others.
Speaking of training in food science there is a recognizable Voluntary Certification Program offered by the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies. To receive a certificate, individuals need to pass a written examination.
Prior Experience Required:
- Food Science jobs would be profited if the prospective food science technician has a certain level of job-related experience and undertakes a further supervisory evaluation.
- Candidates who are looking for a medical career in Food Sciences who have wide-ranging hands-on experience with an assortment of laboratory equipments, together with computers and related equipment, more often than not necessitate a short period of on-the-job training.
- All those with a high school diploma and no college degree characteristically have to begin work as trainees follow the express supervision of experienced technicians in the field.
- A lot of the candidates with a high school certificate in due course earn a 2 year degree in science technology, frequently remunerated for by the employer they are working for.
The professional outlook for food science technicians is anticipated to grow as fast as the standard all the way through the year 2014. Experts forecast that the finest opportunities will be in definite areas of the multi-billion dollar food-processing industry.
After a detailed market research financial experts have revealed that the median hourly salary for food science technicians is $14.29. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, a standard benefit package for food science technicians with a medical career that further includes health and dental insurance, 401K, and paid vacation as well.
The food science technicians and other professionals in similar jobs generally work indoors in comfortable offices and air-conditioned laboratories. The food science technicians work for regular hours but possibly will comprise to put in a few extra hours in the form of overtime while they continue to work on particular projects that require extra monitoring and a detailed check.
Food science technicians may also have to work around some of the most perilous and dangerous chemicals or toxic materials. To save the situation most stringent of safety measures and health regulations are required which helps in reducing any probable risk of danger.