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Food Tester Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

Certified Group

Micro Lab Tech

Dodge City, KS

$16.25 - $21.50/hr

JOB SUMMARY Prepare samples for analytical and microbiological testing of food products, ingredients, and environmentals. The role is responsible for the application of approved microbiological ...

Certified Group

Micro Lab Tech

Dodge City, KS · On-site

$16.25 - $21.50/hr

Food Safety Net Services (FSNS) - A leading network of ISO-accredited laboratories across North America, focused on food safety testing, operational support, and technical services for the food ...

Cargill

Food Scientist, Protein

Wichita, KS

Plan and execute product testing and trials; analyze results and make clear technical recommendations. * Partner with Sales, Business Management, Marketing, Operations, Food Safety & Quality, and ...

Cargill

Food Scientist, Protein

Wichita, KS · On-site

Plan and execute product testing and trials; analyze results and make clear technical recommendations. * Partner with Sales, Business Management, Marketing, Operations, Food Safety & Quality, and ...

Certified Group

Micro Lab Tech

Dodge City, KS · On-site

$16.25 - $21.50/hr

Food Safety Net Services (FSNS) - A leading network of ISO-accredited laboratories across North America, focused on food safety testing, operational support, and technical services for the food ...

Cargill

Food Scientist, Protein

Wichita, KS · On-site

Plan and execute product testing and trials; analyze results and make clear technical recommendations. * Partner with Sales, Business Management, Marketing, Operations, Food Safety & Quality, and ...

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Food Tester information

See Kansas salary details

$9

$34

$55

How much do food tester jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for food tester in Kansas is $34.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.09 and $45.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a food tester?

Food testers, also known as food tasters or sensory analysts, are professionals who evaluate the taste, texture, appearance, and aroma of food and beverages. They work to ensure that products meet quality standards and are safe and enjoyable for consumers. Food testers may assess new recipes, monitor consistency in mass production, and provide feedback to help improve food products. Their work is essential in the food industry for maintaining product quality and meeting regulatory requirements.

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

To thrive as a Food Tester, you need a keen sense of taste and smell, knowledge of food safety standards, and often a background in food science or culinary arts. Familiarity with sensory evaluation tools, laboratory equipment, and HACCP or SQF certifications is typically required. Attention to detail, objectivity, and strong communication skills help distinguish top performers in this role. These abilities ensure accurate product assessments, maintain food quality, and support regulatory compliance in the food industry.

What are some common challenges faced by food testers in their daily work?

Food testers often encounter challenges such as palate fatigue from tasting multiple samples, maintaining objectivity despite personal preferences, and adhering to strict hygiene and safety protocols. They must also accurately document their findings and collaborate closely with product developers, chefs, and quality assurance teams to provide constructive feedback. Balancing the need for detailed sensory analysis with efficient time management is key to success in this role.

What is the difference between Food Tester vs Food Quality Inspector?

AspectFood TesterFood Quality Inspector
CredentialsBasic food safety and sensory evaluation trainingFood safety certifications, quality assurance training
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, food production facilitiesManufacturing plants, inspection sites
Industry UsageFood testing labs, research, product developmentFood manufacturing, quality control departments
Job FocusSensory testing, taste evaluationInspecting for defects, ensuring compliance

Food testers primarily focus on sensory evaluation and taste testing to assess food quality, while food quality inspectors perform detailed inspections to ensure products meet safety and quality standards. Both roles are essential in the food industry but differ in scope and responsibilities.

Can you get paid for taste testing?

Food testers can get paid for taste testing, especially when working for food companies, market research firms, or product development teams. Compensation varies and may include hourly wages, per-test payments, or incentives, often requiring good palate skills and attention to detail.

Can you get paid to review food?

Food testers are paid to evaluate the taste, texture, and quality of food products, often working for food companies or research firms. This role typically requires good sensory skills, attention to detail, and sometimes specific certifications or training. Payment varies depending on the employer and the scope of the testing tasks.

How do you become a food tester?

To become a food tester, candidates typically need a keen sense of taste and smell, attention to detail, and sometimes a background in food science or related fields. Many positions require passing taste tests and may involve training on specific products or quality standards. Relevant skills include good communication and the ability to follow strict hygiene and safety protocols.

How much do food testers make?

Food testers typically earn between $25,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the employer. Entry-level positions may pay lower, while experienced testers or those working for large companies can earn higher salaries. Some roles may also offer benefits such as health insurance and flexible schedules.

What are popular job titles related to Food Tester jobs in Kansas?

For Food Tester jobs in Kansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Food Tester jobs in Kansas look for?

The top searched job categories for Food Tester jobs in Kansas are:

What cities in Kansas are hiring for Food Tester jobs?

Cities in Kansas with the most Food Tester job openings:

Food Tester jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Tester job openings in Kansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,161 per year, or $34.2 per hour.

Food Laboratory Quality Manager

Deibel Laboratories

Manhattan, KS • On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 28 days ago

Deibel Laboratories rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

81st of 120 rated laboratories

Job description

Science you can trust from concept to consumer.
Since 1967, Deibel Laboratories has operated several private food testing facilities providing services in both Microbiology and Chemistry testing. We play an integral role in food and product safety for industry-leading producers, as well as family-run operations much like our own.
Our lab location in Manhattan, KS is hiring a full-time Quality Manager. (40 hours/week plus benefits included).
We offer a competitive salary based on knowledge and experience. This position includes full health benefits for self and family (employer pays for 90% of employee premiums and 50% of dependents on our base plan). Deibel also offers a self-funded dental plan, vision plan, and 401K option along with profit sharing.
Check out our website to learn more about what we do at www.DeibelLabs.com.
Compensation: $22 - $24 Hourly D.O.E. plus a competitive benefits package.
Schedule: Tuesday through Saturday from 9am - 5:30pm(Close)
Required Skills/Abilities:
  • The Quality Manager handles the "day to day" quality systems at the laboratory and trains lab staff on Quality SOPs, assigns certain tasks to lab Associates, and verifies conformance to the written program. This individual is ultimately in charge of implementing and maintaining the Quality Management System (QMS) at the site laboratory, for PM, QM, QC and Procedural SOPs. This individual will report to the Director of Quality.
  • Responsible for the initial implementation and ongoing maintenance of new/existing Procedures or Accreditations within our Labs.
  • Responsible for making the site Lab Manager, and the Director of Quality aware of any non-conformance incidents.
  • Responsible for the day-to-day Quality activities, or for reviewing Quality Forms for compliancy to our written program.
  • Responsible for day-to-day laboratory activities, where needed, to ensure client result quality and reliability are maintained.
Education and Experience:
  • Bachelor of Science, or similar is preferred
  • 1-5 years of experience in a related compliancy field, such as ISO, Pharmaceutical or similarly (highly) regulated industry is preferred.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
Physical Requirements:
  • Occasional exposure to laboratory fumes, chemicals, and materials will occur when in the laboratory.
  • Safety equipment of gloves, laboratory coat, and eyeglasses may need to be worn depending on the testing process.
  • Extended time spent in a standing position.
  • Ability to lift up to 50lbs occasionally and 10 - 15lbs repeatedly.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. Deibel is committed to fostering a diverse and welcoming workplace with people of all types of backgrounds and experiences.
SERVICE - QUALITY - TRANSPARENCY - PARTNERSHIP - EDUCATION - PROFESSIONALISM

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