Aminah
What is the average/median starting salary of a food & flavor chemist? Or someone with a chemistry degree in general?
I'm a high school senior that wants to major in chemistry but doesn't know her career options. #science #chemistry #food
2 answers
Vanja Cvijanovic
Vanja’s Answer
Hello Aminah,
I just thought for a start I would give you some information to work with.
Although I have completed my degree in the sciences it is difficult for me to answer specifics in chemistry a field that I am aware of, but have not specialized in.
That being said I just did a quick Google search for salaries of food/flavor chemists and found this...
http://education-portal.com/articles/Flavor_Chemist_Salary_Job_Description_and_Duties.html
However, you will notice on the site that there is a range in salary from about 30,000-103,000.
The type of profession you choose within the field of Chemistry will make a difference in terms of your salary as well as your site of employment ie.retirement residence, hospital, laboratory etc.
And the numbers I just provided you with are based off of the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Thus, the location you wish to work in will also make a difference!
As you see some decisions need to be made in terms of the specifics of the profession you choose.
I am sure if you major in Chemistry there will be a lot of options for you.
I suggest you explore the internet for some options.
A general search of some key words would be good. ie.professions in chemistry.
Hope that helps, at least a little!
Thank You for this Information
Cindy Sigler
Cindy’s Answer
I received my PhD before I started my journey as an associate scientist, specializing in the fields of food science and flavor chemistry, in San Francisco/Bay Area, California. The starting salary in this region for this role is typically around $75,000.
Aft just a few years, approximately 3-4, you could see your salary jump to anywhere between $90,000 and $120,000, based on my personal journey. I've been working in the world of start-up tech, which, while thrilling, does come with its share of unpredictability.
But here's the silver lining - the Bay Area is a hotbed for innovation and change, particularly in the realm of food technology. There's a high rate of turnover here, which translates to a plethora of opportunities just waiting to be seized!