Job Spotlights

How to become a Food Technologist

Food technologists are responsible for the research and development of new food and drink products. They also work to improve the quality and safety of existing products, processes, packaging, and storage related to food and drink.

If you have plenty of patience and persistence, are knowledgeable about food, and love science, this career could be ideal for you.

What skills do I need as a food technologist?

• Innovative and creative

• Thorough and precise

• Quick decision-maker

• Strong problem-solver

• Great communicator

• Good attention to detail

• Able to work under pressure

• Inquisitive and analytical

What does the job involve?

• Check products for colour, texture, taste, and nutrition

• Advise on storing, packaging, and preserving products

• Analyse data to compare with other products

• Develop new products and quality standards

• Oversee manufacturing processes and procedures

• Maintain safe and hygienic conditions

• Ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations

• Provide advice to clients and consumers

What industries do food technologists typically work in?

• Manufacturing

• Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

• Public Administration and Safety

What kind of lifestyle can I expect?

There is a little room for flexibility, with some part-time opportunities available. Most of your work will be done during regular hours - it’s unlikely that you'll need to work on holidays and weekends.

Many food technologists earn an above average wage throughout their careers.

Food technologists mainly work indoors in laboratories, manufacturing facilities, and offices. There are limited opportunities for remote work as most tasks require access to specialised equipment and facilities.

How to become a food technologist

Most food technologist positions require a bachelor's degree in food science, chemistry, biology, or a related field. Some employers may accept candidates with vocational qualifications or other science degrees if they also have relevant experience or additional training.

Gaining other relevant qualifications, such as First Aid and safe food handling, can also improve your employment prospects.

What can I do right now to work towards this career?

If you’re in high school and you’d like to find out if a career as a food technologist is right for you, here are a few things you could do:

• Get lots of hands-on experience with food - cook meals at home, take cooking classes, or study food technology subjects at school.

• See if you can find work experience in food manufacturing or a laboratory. Part-time work in food retail or hospitality can also be valuable.

• Join science clubs or participate in science competitions to start building important skills.

Where can I find more information?

• Institute of Food Technologists (Global)

• Australian Institute of Food Science and Technology

Similar careers to food technologist

• Nutritionist

• Process Engineer

• Chemist

• Biologist

• Lab Technician

• Industrial Designer

• Chef

• Agronomist

Find out more about alternative careers on our Job Spotlights page.