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Food Tester Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

Foundation in food microbiology techniques, including pathogen and spoilage organism testing, aseptic technique, and standard plating/enumeration methods. * Experience with predictive microbiology ...

Foundation in food microbiology techniques, including pathogen and spoilage organism testing, aseptic technique, and standard plating/enumeration methods. Experience with predictive microbiology and ...

Foundation in food microbiology techniques, including pathogen and spoilage organism testing, aseptic technique, and standard plating/enumeration methods. * Experience with predictive microbiology ...

Foundation in food microbiology techniques, including pathogen and spoilage organism testing, aseptic technique, and standard plating/enumeration methods. * Experience with predictive microbiology ...

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Food Tester information

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$9

$34

$55

How much do food tester jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 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 cities in Kansas are hiring for Food Tester jobs?

Cities in Kansas with the most Food Tester job openings:

Infographic showing various Food Tester job openings in Kansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 45% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $71,161 per year, or $34.2 per hour.

$13 - $17.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Food & Nutrition Services Production Substitute 
Job Description
Purpose: The Food Service Substitute prepares and serves
meals according to food production and service needs outlined by the
Food Service Manager, while observing all Health Department and Food
& Nutrition Services Department regulations regarding the safe handling
of food. To accomplish these tasks, the Technician must work closely
with the cafeteria manager, assistant manager, staff and administrators of
the District and of the Food & Nutrition Services Department.
Responsible to Food Services Manager, Assistant Manager and Supervisor of Food & Nutrition Services
Payment rate:Salary and benefits as established by the Board of Education.
Qualifications:












 

1. Health and Inoculation Certificate on file in the Central Office, after employment offer is
made. Must maintain current TB testing as required by Health Department Regulations.
2. High school diploma or GED encouraged and preferred.
3. Demonstrated enthusiasm and support for school based Child Nutrition programs and their
goal of safeguarding the health and welfare of students through sound dietary and physical
activity habits.
4. Ability to work effectively and independently without direct supervision as well as to work
effectively in collaborative efforts.
5. Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively and appropriately with students, school
staff, administrators, co-workers and school patrons.
6. Ability to read and compute as is necessary for following written instructions and for
recording required meal production and service data.
7. Desire to continue career improvement by enhancing skills and job performance.












 

Essential Functions:
1. In performance of duties and as a representative of the District, conform to all District
guidelines.
2. Communicate and work effectively and cooperatively with members of the District staff,
students and school community.
3. React to change and frequent interruptions productively and in a positive manner, meeting
deadlines as assigned.
4. Prepare and serve food in full compliance with nutritional requirements, food safety
regulations and customer service standards.
5. Appropriately, safely and efficiently operate and maintain all equipment associated with
position.
6. Support the value of an education and of personal well ness practices.
7. Support the vision and mission of the District and of the Food & Nutrition Services
Department.













 

Physical Requirements/Environmental Conditions:
 

1. Must able to lift a maximum of 30 pounds and have the ability to withstand prolonged
periods of standing or sitting, to work in both hot and cold environments; to work with and
around cleaning and sanitizing chemicals and products and to perform other physical tasks
commonly associated with school food service operations such as bending, lifting, stooping,
reaching, pulling and/or pushing heavy objects and materials.
2. Must be able to work effectively in noisy and crowded environments.
3. Must be able to work around fumes and odors.
General Responsibilities:
1. Attend job related training classes and work-shops, including District sponsored in-service
programs.
2. Practice safe and efficient food handling skills to ensure all Health Department requirements
are routinely met.
3. Comply with established regulations and/or quality standards when receiving, storing,
preparing and serving foods.
4. Perform any food preparation, service and/or housekeeping tasks as required to provide
"customer friendly," quality meal service within established time frame(s) and to maintain a
clean and orderly work environment.
5. When trained and assigned to program accountability tasks, collect and process meal
payments and daily bank deposits and provide financial and meal activity reporting services
using an approved automated point of sale system.
6. Maintain strict confidentiality regarding student meal benefit status and meal activity and
payment history.
7. Observe and follow all school district policies at all times.
8. Respond to information requests from students, parents, district staff and school community
in a cooperative, courteous and timely manner.
Page 3 of3 5.47
9. Observe and implement all District health and safety policies, including all precautions of the
Bloodbome Pathogen Exposure Control Plan.
10. Accept temporary assignments in 'other' district school cafeteria operations, as might be
required in emergency situations.
11. Perform such other tasks and assume such other responsibilities as directed by the Food &
Nutrition Services Supervisor, Manager, Assistant Manager or Building Principal.
Term of Employment:
Evaluation:
Approved:
7/17/07
Academic year as calendared plus other days as assigned.
Performance effectiveness evaluated in accordance with Kansas
Statutes and Board of Education Policy.