Description
Perform standardized qualitative and quantitative analyses on food and beverage products as a laboratory technician. Support food scientists in R&D, production technology, quality control, packaging, and processing, while maintaining equipment, safety, and regulatory documentation.
- • Run standardized tests on foods, beverages, additives, and preservatives to verify color, texture, nutrient, and regulatory compliance.
- • Assist scientists and technologists in research, method development, production support, and quality control.
- • Calculate moisture, salt, ingredient percentages, formulas, and other product metrics using laboratory math and chemistry.
- • Record and compile results; generate data tables, graphs, and reports.
- • Interpret data to classify products and compare findings with standard references.
- • Perform sensory checks by tasting or smelling samples under controlled protocols.
- • Examine chemical or biological samples with a microscope to identify cells, bacteria, or extraneous material.
- • Prepare, mix, and culture reagents or ingredients for analyses and pilot batches.
- • Measure and test bottles, cans, and other containers to confirm hardness, strength, and dimensions.
- • Requisition and organize laboratory and plant supplies to maintain inventory levels.
- • Maintain regulatory and quality assurance records for tests and inspections.
- • Monitor and control sample and product temperatures during testing and storage.
- • Inspect, calibrate, clean, and sterilize laboratory instruments; schedule maintenance as needed.
- • Train newly hired laboratory personnel in procedures, safety, and data systems.
- • Prepare slides and incubate cell cultures according to method requirements.
- • Lead or coordinate daily activities of junior lab technicians as assigned.
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Agriculture
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Tasks & skills:
O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026
