Where is the Best Place for Food Scientists to Earn the Most?

Location is a major factor in determining how much a food scientist can expect to earn. Ohio, California, Kansas, New York and South Carolina are the states where food scientists can make the most use of their skills. According to Food Technology, recruiters have reported that mid-career food scientists with strong resumes have a great opportunity to find employment in these areas. Food industries that are large and well-established are the best places to look for job opportunities.

Industries such as food processing, packaging, storage and distribution are the ones that offer the highest salaries and most job openings for food scientists and technologists. Food science is a field that is relatively resistant to economic downturns, as people will always need to eat. Therefore, it is a great option for graduates who are looking for employment. When asked about new skill requirements, respondents mentioned those related to new technologies, continuous improvement methods, government policies (such as the Food Safety Modernization Act) and communication skills.

Food scientists use chemistry, microbiology, engineering and other sciences to study the principles underlying the processing and deterioration of foods; analyze the content of foods to determine levels of vitamins, fats, sugar and proteins; discover new food sources; investigate ways to make processed foods safe, tasty and healthy; and apply knowledge of food science to determine the best ways to process, package,, store and distribute food. According to a survey conducted this year, only 6% of participants said they wouldn't consider entering the field of food science and technology if they were preparing to enter the labor market. Moira McGrath, president of OPUS International, an executive search firm focused on food science based in Deerfield Beach, Florida believes that food science is a labor of love. Bridget McClatchey, 29, a food scientist who works at the Kraft Heinz R&D Center in Glenview, Illinois also agrees that Millennials demand a greater work-life balance than older employees.