Some tasks in this role may be augmented by AI, but human oversight and interpersonal skills remain important.
Work with food scientists or technologists to perform standardized qualitative and quantitative tests to determine physical or chemical properties of food or beverage products. Includes technicians who assist in research and development of production technology, quality control, packaging, processing, and use of foods.
Also Known As:Beer Brewer, Biotechnician, Bottle House QC Technician (Bottle House Quality Control Technician), Butter Fat Tester, Central Laboratory Technician (CLT), Cheese Tester, Cream Tester, Dairy Laboratory Technician (Dairy Lab Tech) +37 more
Taste or smell foods or beverages to ensure that flavors meet specifications or to select samples with specific characteristics.
Measure, test, or weigh bottles, cans, or other containers to ensure that hardness, strength, or dimensions meet specifications.
Maintain records of testing results or other documents as required by state or other governing agencies.
Monitor and control temperature of products.
Analyze test results to classify products or compare results with standard tables.
Record or compile test results or prepare graphs, charts, or reports.
Perform regular maintenance of laboratory equipment by inspecting, calibrating, cleaning, or sterilizing.
Examine chemical or biological samples to identify cell structures or to locate bacteria or extraneous material, using a microscope.
Conduct standardized tests on food, beverages, additives, or preservatives to ensure compliance with standards and regulations regarding factors such as color, texture, or nutrients.
Train newly hired laboratory personnel.
Provide assistance to food scientists or technologists in research and development, production technology, or quality control.
Supervise other food science technicians.
Compute moisture or salt content, percentages of ingredients, formulas, or other product factors, using mathematical and chemical procedures.
Order supplies needed to maintain inventories in laboratories or in storage facilities of food or beverage processing plants.
Supplemental Tasks (2)
Prepare or incubate slides with cell cultures.
Mix, blend, or cultivate ingredients to make reagents or to manufacture food or beverage products.
Education & Training
Job Zone 3Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed
Education: Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.
Experience: Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.
On-the-Job Training: Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.
Education Level Distribution
Percentage of workers in this occupation with each education level.
Bachelor's Degree
32%
Associate's Degree (or other 2-year degree)
23%
High School Diploma - or the equivalent (for example, GED)