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Food Tester Jobs in Springfield, MO (NOW HIRING)

Scismic

Microbiology Manager

Springfield, MO · On-site

The Manager plays a critical role in driving performance, method integrity, and continuous improvement within a 365-day/year food testing laboratory, collaborating cross-functionally with Technical ...

Scismic

Microbiology Manager

Springfield, MO · On-site

The Manager plays a critical role in driving performance, method integrity, and continuous improvement within a 365-day/year food testing laboratory, collaborating cross-functionally with Technical ...

Scismic

Microbiology Manager

Springfield, MO

The Manager plays a critical role in driving performance, method integrity, and continuous improvement within a 365-day/year food testing laboratory, collaborating cross-functionally with Technical ...

Integrated Resources INC

Lab Tech

Springfield, MO · On-site

$17.25 - $23/hr

RESPONSIBILITIES Sorting, pouring, and testing routine analytical properties of food products during shift Testing of non-routine analytical properties of food products such as: HPLC, GC, Color Power ...

SeniorAge

Culinary Lead

Marshfield, MO · On-site

$18/hr

The Culinary Lead supervises all food service assistants, both paid and volunteer, and cross-trains ... PRE-EMPLOYMENT DRUG TESTING AND BACKGROUND CHECKS ARE REQUIRED FOR THIS SAFETY SENSITIVE POSITION.

Pizza Hut

Job Details

Marshfield, MO · On-site

$13.25 - $16.50/hr

Serve up great food and great moments for our guests and team as a Shift Leader for Pizza Hut. In ... accounts Access to free GED testing Tuition grants with Colorado Technical University Meal ...

Summit Restaurant Group

Shift Lead

Marshfield, MO

$13.50 - $16.50/hr

Serve up great food and great moments for our guests and team as a Shift Leader for Pizza Hut. In ... Access to free GED testing * Tuition grants with Colorado Technical University * Meal discounts You ...

Summit Restaurant Group

Shift Lead

Republic, MO

$13 - $16.25/hr

Serve up great food and great moments for our guests and team as a Shift Leader for Pizza Hut. In ... Access to free GED testing * Tuition grants with Colorado Technical University * Meal discounts You ...

Summit Restaurant Group

Server

Marshfield, MO

Serve up great food and great moments as a Server for Pizza Hut. That's right, you can earn some ... Access to free GED testing * Tuition grants with Colorado Technical University * Meal discounts ...

Pizza Hut

Job Details

Marshfield, MO · On-site

$13.25 - $16.50/hr

Serve up great food and great moments for our guests and team as an Assistant Manager for Pizza Hut ... accounts Access to free GED testing Tuition grants with Colorado Technical University Meal ...

Pizza Hut

Job Details

Marshfield, MO · On-site

Serve up great food and great moments as a Server for Pizza Hut. That's right, you can earn some ... accounts Access to free GED testing Tuition grants with Colorado Technical University Meal ...

Oterra

QC Lab Technician

Marshfield, MO

$19.25 - $24.25/hr

Company Description Oterra is the global leader in naturally sourced colors for food, beverages ... testing. 11. Monitors inventory levels of lab supplies and informs person responsible for ordering.

Oterra

QC Lab Technician

Marshfield, MO · On-site

$19.25 - $24.25/hr

Company Description Oterra is the global leader in naturally sourced colors for food, beverages ... testing. 11. Monitors inventory levels of lab supplies and informs person responsible for ordering.

Oterra

QC Lab Technician

Marshfield, MO · On-site

$19.25 - $24.25/hr

Company Description Oterra is the global leader in naturally sourced colors for food, beverages ... testing. 11. Monitors inventory levels of lab supplies and informs person responsible for ordering.

Dairiconcepts, L.P.

Principal Scientist

Springfield, MO · On-site

Research dairy science, food science and equipment for the purpose of innovating new technologies ... Perform applications testing simulating the customer's end use to ensure the products developed ...

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All JobsFood Tester JobsFood Tester Jobs in Springfield, MO

Food Tester information

See Springfield, MO salary details

$9

$34

$57

How much do food tester jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for food tester in Springfield, MO is $34.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $46.15 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 Springfield, MO?

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

What job categories do people searching Food Tester jobs in Springfield, MO look for?

The top searched job categories for Food Tester jobs in Springfield, MO are:

What cities near Springfield, MO are hiring for Food Tester jobs?

Cities near Springfield, MO with the most Food Tester job openings:

Food Tester jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Tester job openings in Springfield, MO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,580 per year, or $34.9 per hour.

Microbiology Manager

Scismic

Springfield, MO • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Scismic is supporting the growth of an exciting global company headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. We are looking for a Microbiology Manager in Springfield, MO USA. 

Position Summary

The Microbiology Manager leads the daily operations of the Microbiology Laboratory at the company's Springfield site, ensuring the highest standards of quality, compliance, and operational excellence. Reporting directly to the Laboratory Director, this role is responsible for supervising microbiology supervisors and operations leads, translating strategic objectives into actionable laboratory outcomes, and ensuring full compliance with internal standards and regulatory requirements (e.g., ISO, AOAC, FDA, USDA, SMEDP).

The Manager plays a critical role in driving performance, method integrity, and continuous improvement within a 365-day/year food testing laboratory, collaborating cross-functionally with Technical, Quality, Procurement, and Industrial Performance teams to support innovation and network initiatives.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 
Leadership & People Development
  • Manage and mentor microbiology supervisors, leads, and analysts to achieve daily throughput, quality, and turnaround targets.
  • Foster a culture of safety, accountability, and engagement through effective coaching, training, and performance management.
  • Oversee workforce planning, including scheduling, recruitment, onboarding, and retention in collaboration with Human Resources.
  • Ensure consistent alignment with company policies, Code of Conduct, and equal employment standards.

Operational Excellence
  • Translate site and corporate strategic goals into departmental action plans with measurable KPIs.
  • Oversee daily sample flow, workload balancing, and resource allocation to maintain turnaround time and client commitments.
  • Develop and maintain systems ensuring methodologies are properly implemented and validated per client and regulatory requirements.
  • Support new method implementation, technology integration, and scope expansion in coordination with network technical teams.
  • Oversee preventive maintenance, calibration, and qualification of laboratory equipment to ensure reliable performance.
Quality, Compliance & Audit Readiness
  • Ensure all microbiological testing complies with internal SOPs and external standards (ISO 17025, AOAC, USDA, FDA, SMEDP).
  • Review, interpret, and approve analytical data; verify that results meet quality and accuracy standards prior to release.
  • Lead corrective and preventive action (CAPA) implementation, ensuring root cause investigations and effective follow-up.
  • Serve as the primary contact for internal and external audits, demonstrating full readiness and documentation traceability.
  • Partner with Quality Assurance to drive continuous improvement initiatives and maintain robust documentation practices.
Communication & Collaboration
  • Partner closely with the Laboratory Director and network stakeholders to communicate departmental performance, challenges, and opportunities.
  • Collaborate with Technical, Quality, Procurement, and Industrial Performance teams on process optimization and cost-efficiency projects.
  • Provide technical support and consultative communication to internal and external clients regarding methods, data interpretation, and issue resolution.

Continuous Improvement & Strategic Contribution
  • Leverage performance data and metrics (efficiency, quality, capacity, OTD) to identify trends and implement process improvements.
  • Support the deployment of network-wide operational excellence initiatives and digital tools (e.g., LIMS enhancements, dashboards).
  • Maintain current knowledge in food microbiology and laboratory technologies through continuing education and peer engagement.
Education
  • Bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Biology, Food Science, or related field required.
  • Master's or PhD in Microbiology or related discipline preferred.
Experience
  • Minimum of five (5) years in a microbiology laboratory environment, with at least two (2) years in a leadership or management role.
  • Demonstrated expertise in food microbiology methods and quality systems (ISO, AOAC, BAM, USDA, FDA).
  • Proven ability to lead and develop high-performing teams in a high-volume, regulated testing environment.
  • Experience managing audits and implementing CAPA, method validations, and operational improvements.
  • Proficiency with LIMS and standard office software (Google Suite, Microsoft Office).
  • Familiarity with diagnostic and rapid detection platforms such as BAX, GeneUP, VIDAS, VITEK, IQ, and Invisible Sentinel.
  • Strong preference for experience in the food testing or food manufacturing industry.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Deep understanding of laboratory performance metrics and data-driven decision-making.
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and project management skills with attention to detail and urgency.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to influence cross-functional teams.
  • Sound judgment and problem-solving ability in balancing quality, cost, and efficiency.
  • Familiarity with business process improvement, Lean, or Six Sigma principles preferred.
  • Ability to work effectively under pressure in a fast-paced, multi-shift environment.
Physical and Travel Requirements
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in laboratory conditions with standard PPE.
  • Ability to stand for extended periods during lab operations.
  • Occasional travel up to 10-15% for meetings, audits, or training.
  • Ethical & Code of Conduct Responsibilities
  • The Microbiology Manager must operate at all times in compliance with Company Code of Conduct, promoting ethical behavior, client focus, and adherence to quality and safety standards.

$0 - $0 a year
Compensation Package Overview: 
Compensation Range: Salary is flexible and negotiable, depending on expertise and fit.
Potential bonus: Up to 10% based on performance.
Relocation Assistance Provided

Full Time Eligible Benefits Overview:
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- Generous paid time off (PTO) package to support work-life balance following state and local ordinances.
- Optional 401(k) plan with employer matching contributions.

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