Also called: Packaging Technologist (Food)
Designs food packaging that keeps food fresh and safe while using less plastic.
A food packaging scientist tests how long chips stay crunchy in a new bag, checks seals on pouches, and searches for compostable materials. They work with suppliers, factories, and sustainability teams.
Bachelor's degree (4-year), about 4 years after high school. Bachelor's in packaging science or food science.
Ways in: 4-year college. Training cost: $15k – $60k.
Majors to look at: Packaging Science, Food Science, Materials Science.
Growing faster than average (about 5% over 10 years). BLS 2025-35 projection band for SOC 19-1012: Faster than average (5% to 6%).
Low risk for 10 years. AI speeds material modeling and design; testing packages and solving shelf-life problems stay human.
Classes: Chemistry, Physics, Art or design.
Official data: O*NET occupation 19-1012.
Career Universe is an early version. Pay, training and AI-risk figures are estimates to start your own research, not verified facts. The research was written with AI research assistants, checked by validation scripts and spot-checked by hand. Check anything important with schools, employers and official sources. How the numbers work.