How much does a Food Scientists and Technologists make in California?
Last updated: 2024 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Use chemistry, microbiology, engineering, and other sciences to study the principles underlying the processing and deterioration of foods; analyze food content to determine levels of vitamins, fat, sugar, and protein; discover new food sources; research ways to make processed foods safe, palatable, and healthful; and apply food science knowledge to determine best ways to process, package, preserve, store, and distribute food.
Source: O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor
Salaries for Food Scientists and Technologists in California range from $57,400 at the 10th percentile (entry level) to $133,930 at the 90th percentile (experienced). The middle 50% earn between $68,730 and $106,790.
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate | Monthly |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $57,400 | $27.60 | $4,783 |
| 25th Percentile | $68,730 | $33.04 | $5,727 |
| Median (50th) | $85,480 | $41.10 | $7,123 |
| 75th Percentile | $106,790 | $51.34 | $8,899 |
| 90th Percentile (Experienced) | $133,930 | $64.39 | $11,160 |
Note: The mean (average) salary of $91,820 differs from the median because salary distributions are typically skewed by high earners.
Some links may be affiliate links. See our Affiliate Disclosure.
What does this salary really buy? See Food Scientists and Technologists salary in California adjusted for cost of living →
Compare Food Scientists and Technologists pay across states — sorted by highest median salary.
Salary data is sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey, 2024 estimates. The OEWS survey covers approximately 1.1 million establishments nationwide.
Annual salaries are calculated based on a standard 2,080-hour work year. Actual compensation may vary based on experience, education, employer, and local market conditions. Figures do not include benefits, bonuses, or overtime pay.
Our Methodology · Data Sources · Source: BLS OEWS