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Food Judge Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Practicing alcohol awareness and exercising good judgment when serving guests alcohol in compliance ... Current Food Handler certificates * Ability to carry at least 30 lbs. * Strong communication skills

Food runners support the servers in providing a seamless and efficient dining experience for our ... Able to exercise good judgment while working both independently and collaboratively; works well in ...

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Food Runner to join our dynamic team. This ... These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions ...

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Food Runner to join our dynamic team. This ... These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions ...

Food Runners

Detroit, MI · On-site

$12 - $14/hr

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Food Runner to join our dynamic team. This ... These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions ...

Performs tasks with several steps or sequence of tasks such as: sets up food service counters ... Skill to perform tasks with several steps and use judgment in the performance of sequential tasks.

New

Utilizes independent judgment to develop seasoning and flavor systems for large food manufacturers based on customers' specified requirements and project parameters * Knowledge of formulating for ...

Food Service Lead

Sun City West, AZ

$14 - $19.25/hr

Uses good judgment to make appropriate decisions regarding daily work and staff needs. Appropriately communicates information to management as needed. 2. Maintains food handling and sanitation ...

New

Food Service Lead

Sun City West, AZ · On-site

$14 - $19.25/hr

Uses good judgment to make appropriate decisions regarding daily work and staff needs. Appropriately communicates information to management as needed. 2. Maintains food handling and sanitation ...

New

Food Service Lead

Webb, AL

$14 - $19.25/hr

Uses good judgment to make appropriate decisions regarding daily work and staff needs. Appropriately communicates information to management as needed. 2. Maintains food handling and sanitation ...

New

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Food Judge information

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How much do food judge jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for food judge in the United States is $16.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $17.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Food Judges during culinary competitions?

Food Judges often encounter challenges such as maintaining objectivity when tasting multiple dishes in succession and managing palate fatigue. They must also be mindful of food allergies or dietary restrictions while providing fair and constructive feedback to contestants. Additionally, Food Judges frequently work in fast-paced environments where they need to make quick, informed decisions, and collaborate closely with other judges to ensure consistency in scoring and evaluation.

What is the difference between Food Judge vs Food Taster?

AspectFood JudgeFood Taster
Required CredentialsOften requires culinary or food science background, certifications varyTypically no formal credentials needed, focus on sensory skills
Work EnvironmentFood testing labs, competitions, quality assurance settingsRestaurants, food companies, product testing events
Employer & IndustryFood companies, quality assurance firms, culinary competitionsFood manufacturers, marketing teams, product development
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in food quality and evaluationEvaluating sensory and tasting roles in food industry

Food Judges and Food Tasters both evaluate food, but Food Judges typically have formal training and work in quality assurance or competitions, while Food Tasters focus on sensory evaluation in product testing without formal credentials. Their work environments and employer types also differ, reflecting their specific roles in the food industry.

What are people who judge food called?

People who judge food are commonly called food critics, food tasters, or culinary judges. These professionals evaluate taste, presentation, and quality, often working for media outlets, restaurants, or competitions. They typically have a good palate, knowledge of flavors, and may hold relevant culinary or journalism experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Food Judge, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Food Judge, you need an expert palate, comprehensive knowledge of culinary techniques and ingredients, and often formal training in gastronomy or culinary arts. Familiarity with food evaluation criteria, scoring systems, and food safety standards is essential, and some judges may hold certifications from culinary institutions. Strong observational skills, impartiality, and effective communication are vital soft skills for providing fair and constructive feedback. These competencies ensure consistent, high-quality judging and uphold the integrity and credibility of culinary competitions.

What are Food Judges?

Food Judges are professionals or experts who evaluate food in competitions, festivals, or culinary events. Their role is to taste, assess, and score dishes based on criteria like flavor, presentation, creativity, and adherence to rules. Food Judges often have backgrounds in culinary arts, food writing, or related fields, and their feedback helps determine winners and guide participants. Their evaluations also contribute to maintaining fairness and high standards in food competitions.

How can I become a food judge?

To become a food judge, individuals typically need a strong knowledge of food and flavors, which can be gained through culinary education or experience in the food industry. Developing good palate skills, attention to detail, and participating in tasting panels or competitions can also help build qualifications for the role.

How to get paid for reviewing food?

Food judges or reviewers can earn money by working for food publications, market research companies, or restaurant testing programs that pay for tasting and providing feedback. Some may also participate in paid focus groups or create content for food blogs and social media platforms that monetize reviews. Building a reputation and developing tasting skills can increase earning opportunities in this field.

How much do food critics get paid?

Food critics' salaries vary widely depending on experience, location, and the employer. On average, they earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, with top critics at major publications earning more. Many food critics also supplement income through freelance work or media appearances.
More about Food Judge jobs
Infographic showing various Food Judge job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, and 34% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,769 per year, or $16.2 per hour.
Food Preparer, Part-time

Food Preparer, Part-time

Samaritan Healthcare

Moses Lake, WA

$12.50 - $17.25/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Samaritan Healthcare rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Our Mission

All of us, for each of you, every time.

Our Vision

Together, serving as the trusted regional healthcare partner.

Our Values

Listen~Love~Respect~Excel~Innovate

At Samaritan, we do more than deliver healthcare - we make a meaningful difference in the lives of our community every day. We're committed to creating an exceptional workplace where professionals feel valued, supported, and inspired to provide outstanding care to every patient we serve.

The Food Preparer is responsible for providing friendly, courteous service to visitors and employees. Assists in preparation of all foods for patients and personnel. Capable of operating a cash register, credit card transaction, payroll deduct and making correct change. Ability to operate a variety of kitchen appliances. Maintains high standards of sanitation in food handling and in work area. Sets up patient food trays, assembles cold food on trays, assists in tray service, and transports carts to and from patient areas. May perform a variety of other tasks such as catering, cleaning refrigerators, freezers and storage areas, helping with simple food preparation as assigned. Responsible for daily cleaning and storage of food carts, pots and pans, dishware, and other food service equipment. The individual in this position will be required to fully understand the purpose and operation of Nutrition Services along with having the ability to make decisions based on sound judgment when a situation dictates.

This is a part-time role working various shifts from Sunday-Saturday between 10:30am-2:30pm (working every other weekend).

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  1. Prepares fruits, vegetables, salads, condiments, beverages and desserts for patient trays in a timely, sanitary manner.
  2. Uses standardized recipes and avoids food waste as applicable.
  3. Prepares food items for catering and sets up catering functions.
  4. Maintains minimal stock of sandwich material, uses proper sandwich making technique.
  5. Portions cold foods for tray service and assists in tray assembly.
  6. Cleans equipment, worktables, ranges, utensils, pots, and pans using proper techniques and cleaning solutions. Follows posted cleaning schedules.
  7. Uses cash register, credit card transaction and payroll deduct in proper manner. Is able to count change correctly. Balances cash drawer after each meal period.
  8. Tallies patient count by diets in a timely fashion.
  9. Familiar with current Dietary Food Management system.
  10. Sets up, transports, and serves patient trays in accordance with established schedule and procedures.
  11. Maintains minimal stock levels in the doctor’s lounge.
  12. Receives and properly stores food and supplies; rotates stock.
  13. Works closely with Cook, Diet Assistant and Registered Dietitian to provide exceptional patient care.
  14. Maintains professional growth and development through seminars, workshops and professional affiliations to keep abreast of latest trends in field of expertise.
  15. Ensures no injuries to self or others by following safe work practices and policies. This includes, but is not limited to: security and safety, understanding of MSDS, equipment, infection control, fire, disaster, safe lifting and body mechanics.
  16. Ensures self-compliance with organization policies and procedures, as well as labor agreements.
  17. Ensures the interface with team members and other support groups is conducted in a courteous and efficient manner conducive with the organization’s values.
  18. Conducts self in a professional manner and ensures personal appearance meets the standards necessary to perform the job function while representing the organization.
  19. Ensures that additional accountabilities, as may be required by management, be handled in a manner necessary to meet organizational standards.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The individual in this position reports to the Nutrition Services Director. This position works closely with other Nutrition Services staff in order to provide friendly, courteous food service to visitors and employees.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

  • Education:
    1. High school diploma or GED.
  • License:
    1. Current Washington State Food Handlers permit.
  • Experience:
    1. One year of food service experience preferred
  • Skills/Competencies:
    1. Ability to learn the operation of equipment and simple food preparation techniques.
    2. Demonstrates competency on equipment listed on department specific checklist.
    3. Critical thinking skills: Seeks resources for direction, when necessary. Performs independent problem solving. Decision-making is logical and deliberate.
    4. Performs actions that demonstrate accountability. Exercises safe judgment in decision-making. Practices within legal and ethical guidelines.
    5. Demonstrates competency in ability to care for customers/patients across the age continuum.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  1. Moderate physical effort (lift/carry up to 25 lbs.).
  2. Frequent prolonged standing/walking.
  3. Pushes/pulls or moves/lifts heavy equipment/supplies.
  4. Considerable reaching, kneeling, bending, stooping, and crouching.
  5. Ability to communicate using verbal and/or written skills for accurate exchange of information with physicians, nurses, health care professionals, patients and/or family, and the public.

As a Samaritan professional, you will be asked to commit to being part of a culture grounded in our Mission, Vision, Values, and Strategy that brings service and operational excellence to life each day while creating an exceptional experience for our patients, professionals, physicians, and students. Additionally, how we present ourselves matters, and adherence to our Professional Appearance Policy reflects the pride, respect, and professionalism we bring to those we serve.


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