Food scientist or food technologist
Test food for safety and quality and find ways to keep food fresh for longer. Or you would invent new processes and products, such as fat-free food or meat-free alternatives.
About the job
Salary
Source: National Careers Service
Weekly
£385
Entry level
£865
Experienced
Monthly
£1,667
Entry level
£3,750
Experienced
Yearly
£20,000
Entry level
£45,000
Experienced
16,100
people are currently employed
High growth
300 more jobs in 5 years
These figures refer to this job and similar ones with comparable skills and qualifications. They only apply to Scotland. Source: Oxford Economics
What it's like
You need a Higher National Diploma (SCQF level 8) or degree (SCQF level 9/10) in Food Science or Food technologies or a related science subject.
You can enter a Higher National Diploma courses (SCQF level 8) with National 4/5 qualifications and one to two Highers including science subjects, preferably chemistry, or equivalent qualifications.
To enter a degree (SCQF level 9/10) usually requires National 5 qualifications and a minimum of three Highers or a relevant HNC/HND.
Hours
Environment
Travel
Explore more information about this job
Here are some useful links to learn more about this career:
Other careers that you might like
Energy engineer Materials engineer Nuclear engineer Head brewer Spacecraft communicator Flight director Remanufacturing engineer
Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
Life sciences Life sciences Food and drink Digital technologies Chemical sciences
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Here are some of the skills you'll need to do this job:
- understanding
- analysing
- developing a plan
- attention to detail
- researching
- observation
- problem solving
- working with technology
- verbal communication
- cooperating
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore the sections shown for more information about getting into this career.
You might have qualifications which are not shown here but will allow you access to a course. You can compare your qualifications by looking at their SCQF Level. For more information about this, check out the SCQF website.
Always contact the college, university or training provider to check exactly what you'll need.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Biology
Chemistry
Health and Food Technology
Hospitality: Practical Cookery
Human Biology
Skills for Work: Laboratory Science
Foundation Apprenticeship: Food and Drink Technologies
Skills for Work: Food and Drink Manufacturing Industry
Foundation Apprenticeship: Automotive
You can get a head start in this career by doing a Foundation Apprenticeship in S5 and S6.
You'll get an SCQF level 6 qualification which is the same level as a Higher. You'll also learn new skills and gain valuable experience in a work environment.
Discover what's on offer at your school on Apprenticeships.scot.
You need a Higher National Diploma (SCQF level 8) or degree (SCQF level 9/10) in Food Science or Food technologies or a related science subject.
You can enter a Higher National Diploma courses (SCQF level 8) with National 4/5 qualifications and one to two Highers including science subjects, preferably chemistry, or equivalent qualifications.
To enter a degree (SCQF level 9/10) usually requires National 5 qualifications and a minimum of three Highers or a relevant HNC/HND.
Qualifications and experience that show scientific skills and an interest in food and drink such as Skills for Work Laboratory Science (SCQF level 5) or Food and Drink (SCFQ level 5).
Once qualified it may be helpful to become a member of the Institute of Food Science and Technology.
Explore over 22,000 courses in Scotland
Find the perfect course to boost your career.
