Have you ever wondered how food and beverage manufacturers come up with new flavors? It’s usually with the help of a lab technician. According to the lLABLABLAB, the largest employers of lab technicians are hospitals and medical labs. However, food and beverage companies also hire lab technicians. If you’re thinking of becoming a lab tech, you might be interested in learning more about this unique place to work.
What Food and Beverage Lab Techs Do
Lab technicians help food scientists by testing food and food additives to ensure that they comply with established safety standards and are fit for consumption. Technicians also help scientists research and develop the chemical properties of food to come up with new ingredients and formulas.
In addition to analyzing results and preparing reports, technicians are responsible for preparing and maintaining quantities of chemicals needed to perform laboratory tests. Lab techs are also responsible for maintaining a safe, sterile laboratory environment.
How to Become a Food and Beverage Lab Technician
If you are interested in training to become a food lab technicians you should train at an accredited program to learn the skills and processes that are required for the specialized environment of a laboratory. Once hired, technicians will undergo on-the-job training to help them learn the specific skills needed for the role.
Successful lab technicians should also possess several personal traits, including being very detail-oriented and have analytical skills. For example, food lab technicians will need to make a variety of observations and on-site measurements, which require precision and accuracy.
Lab technicians also need to be critical thinkers. Agricultural and food science technicians will need to form conclusions based on reasoning and judgment and discover ways to improve food quality for taste and safety standards.
Finally, technicians should have physical stamina. Working in a food lab usually requires standing for long periods of time. Techs may also need to lift heavy objects for testing.
Does this role sound interesting to you? If you’re considering becoming a lab technician, Fortis has programs available that can help you get on the path to this exciting new career. Click here for more information or call us today at (855) 436-7847 and speak to one of our career counselors.