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Food Tester Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Certified Group

Lab Analyst - 3rd Shift

Plainwell, MI · On-site

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 ...

Meijer, Inc.

Food Scientist

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

Knowledge and ability to perform sensory testing on food products. * Strong written and verbal ... communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate throughout all levels of the ...

Meijer Companies Ltd

Food Scientist

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

Knowledge and ability to perform sensory testing on food products. * Strong written and verbal ... communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate throughout all levels of the ...

AVI Foodsystems

Food Packer

Jackson, MI · On-site

$13 - $16.50/hr

Providing comprehensive food services with a focus on the highest quality and freshest ingredients ... testing. EOE

AVI Foodsystems

Food Packer

Jackson, MI · On-site

$12.75 - $16/hr

Providing comprehensive food services with a focus on the highest quality and freshest ingredients ... testing. EOE

University of Michigan

FOOD SVC WORKER (TEMP)

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Food Service Personnel are expected to provide world class customer service to Michigan Medicine ... Pre-employment drug testing applies to all selected candidates, including new or additional faculty ...

Champion Foods LLC

Food Technician II

New Boston, MI · On-site

Determine appropriate sensory testing, such as (performance, ingredients, scales, etc.). Compiles ... Bachelor's degree in food science or related field.Minimum of one (1) to two (2) years' experience ...

Champion Foods

Food Technician II

New Boston, MI · On-site

Determine appropriate sensory testing, such as (performance, ingredients, scales, etc.). Compiles ... Bachelor's degree in food science or related field. * Minimum of one (1) to two (2) years ...

Champion Foods

Food Technician II

New Boston, MI

Determine appropriate sensory testing, such as (performance, ingredients, scales, etc.). Compiles ... Bachelor's degree in food science or related field. * Minimum of one (1) to two (2) years ...

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Food Tester information

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How much do food tester jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for food tester in Michigan is $33.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.65 and $44.23 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 Michigan?

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

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

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

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Food Tester jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Food Tester job openings:

Food Tester jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Tester job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $69,545 per year, or $33.4 per hour.

Lab Analyst - 3rd Shift

Plainwell, MI • On-site

Certified Group
See more jobs at Certified Groupexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Certified Group is committed to partnering with customers to deliver innovative scientific solutions and expertise - So The World Can Trust In What It Consumes™. Our network of 30+ North American and European laboratories serves the food & beverage, dietary supplements, cosmetics, OTC, tobacco/nicotine, cannabis, and hemp industries.
Our Brands
Certified Group is comprised of a set of specialized brands that collectively deliver laboratory testing, regulatory consulting, and certification & audit services across highly regulated industries:
  • Certified Laboratories - Provides comprehensive analytical and microbiological testing, primarily supporting food, beverage, cosmetics, OTC, and dietary supplement industries.
  • 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 industry.
  • Labstat - A global leader in contract research and testing for nicotine, tobacco, cannabis, hemp, and next-generation products, with deep expertise in analytical chemistry and toxicology.
  • EAS Consulting Group - A regulatory consulting firm offering expert guidance, training, and auditing support across FDA, USDA, and other regulated sectors, powered by a large network of independent advisors.
  • FSNS Certification & Audit - Provides accredited third-party auditing and certification services, including food safety, animal welfare, and GMP programs.

We are currently looking for a Pathogen Lab Analyst to join our growing team!
Job Summary:
Perform analytical and microbiological testing of food products, ingredients, and environmentals. The position performs the application and evaluation of approved microbiological techniques and methodologies.
Essential Responsibilities:
  • Accurately perform and read test results and notify Laboratory Management of deviations
  • Prepare and analyze samples for indicator organisms, pathogens, and chemistries
  • Apply aseptic/microbiological techniques in daily workload
  • Report inventory and expendable supplies/materials needed for testing requirements
  • Provide routine preventive maintenance by daily cleaning, sanitizing, trash disposal, and equipment quality control
  • Assist in quality duties to by taking incubator temperatures, inoculating control organisms, running media controls, etc.
  • Pursue an assigned series of processes, procedures, or techniques in accordance with FSNS policies/procedures and customer requirements
  • Maintain a high degree of technical competence by reading scientific journals, attending professional workshops, and being aware of food industry issues and trends
  • Perform all activities in a neat, safe, hygienic, and efficient manner
  • Share information in an open and timely manner
  • Assisting with managing priorities and schedule such that individual goals as well as team goals are achieved with encouraged participation in the Food Safety Net Services Team
  • Responsible for the safety of oneself and others working within their area

Supervision:
  1. This job does has no supervisory responsibilities.

Education & Experience:
  • Associate degree in Life Science or related field with two or more years of laboratory experience, preferred
  • Two or more years of experience in a commercial food-testing or analytical laboratory
  • Or equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Working knowledge of aseptic sampling technique, automated lab equipment, and acceptable methods and procedures
  • Familiarity with GLP, OSHA guidelines, FDA, BAM, APHA, ISO, and USP methods and procedures
  • Broad knowledge of concepts, practices, and procedures of a food testing laboratory
  • Ability to travel when necessary

Physical Demands/Work Environment:
  • Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard, mouse and to handle other communications/computer components
  • Potential exposure to odors, fumes, airborne particles, hazardous chemicals, and microbiological pathogens
  • Noise level varies from quiet to loud
  • Temperature varies from hot to cold
  • Interactive and fast-paced team oriented tasks
  • Overnight Travel is required at the discretion of management
  • Occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds
  • Color vision and depth perception

By applying, you acknowledge that Certified Group will process your personal information for recruitment and hiring purposes in accordance with our Applicant Privacy Policy. California residents may review additional information about how we collect and use personal information, including retention and rights, in our California Notice at Collection. To view our Privacy Policy, click the link here: Certified Group Privacy Policy
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and make employment decisions without regard to protected characteristics under applicable law.

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