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Food Tester Jobs in Springfield, MO (NOW HIRING)

LAB TECHNICIAN II

Springfield, MO · On-site

$16 - $21.25/hr

The French's Food Company , a subsidiary of McCormick & Company, Inc. and a global leader in flavor ... Conduct Analytical Testing of both raw and finished products * Use a variety of test methods ...

LAB TECHNICIAN II

Springfield, MO · On-site

$16 - $21.25/hr

The French's Food Company , a subsidiary of McCormick & Company, Inc. and a global leader in flavor ... Conduct Analytical Testing of both raw and finished products * Use a variety of test methods ...

Dietary Cook

Springfield, MO · On-site

$12.25 - $15.50/hr

Join a team that values good food and great teamwork! We're hiring a Cook to help create wholesome ... Participate in company drug testing procedures Join Americare Senior Living and make a meaningful ...

Dietary Cook

Springfield, MO · On-site

$12.25 - $15.50/hr

Join a team that values good food and great teamwork! We're hiring a Cook to help create wholesome ... Participate in company drug testing procedures Join Americare Senior Living and make a meaningful ...

... testing procedures and functions, sanitation policies and procedures. Must follow all Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP'S) and work in manner consistent with all Corporate, regulatory, food safety ...

Dietary Cook

Springfield, MO · On-site

$12 - $15.50/hr

Dietary Cook, Cook, Food Service Cook, or Kitchen Cook. What You'll Do * Prepare and cook meals for ... Participate in company drug testing procedures Join Americare Senior Living and make a meaningful ...

Dietary Cook

Springfield, MO · On-site

$12 - $15.50/hr

Dietary Cook, Cook, Food Service Cook, or Kitchen Cook. What You'll Do * Prepare and cook meals for ... Participate in company drug testing procedures Join Americare Senior Living and make a meaningful ...

Aramark Student Nutrition provides food and nutrition services to over 350 school districts in the ... Support application interfaces, customizations, upgrades, testing, and implementation of system ...

Aramark Student Nutrition provides food and nutrition services to over 350 school districts in the ... Support application interfaces, customizations, upgrades, testing, and implementation of system ...

Dietary Aide

Springfield, MO · On-site

$11.75 - $14.75/hr

Participate in company drug testing procedures Work Environment This role operates in a professional kitchen environment , utilizing stoves, dishwashers, refrigerators, coolers, and other food ...

Aramark Student Nutrition provides food and nutrition services to over 350 school districts in the ... Support application interfaces, customizations, upgrades, testing, and implementation of system ...

Showing results 41-60

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:

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.

LAB TECHNICIAN II - C Shift

McCormick & Company

Springfield, MO • On-site

$16 - $21.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Perform analytical testing of raw and finished products using various test methods and instrumentation.

  • Examine samples, record results accurately, and interpret data to ensure products meet specifications.

  • Calibrate, maintain, troubleshoot laboratory equipment, and perform quality checks on the plant floor.


McCormick & Company rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

70th of 445 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

The French's Food Company, a subsidiary of McCormick & Company, Inc. and a global leader in flavor is seeking a full-time Lab Techfor the plant located in Springfield, MO. This person will report to the QA Team Manager.

With more than $500 million in annual sales, our company has been crafting trusted foods using simple ingredients of the highest quality.  From French's Classic Yellow Mustard, long America's top-selling mustard, to its most recent innovations, such as Franks Red Hot, the company has a history rich with delicious creations made from what today would be considered "clean, simple ingredients."  To learn more please visit us at www.frenchs.com.

We are hiring for C Shift:  Sunday, Monday, Tuesday 7PM - 7AM, and Wednesday 7PM - 1AM

POSITION OVERVIEW:

Under the general direction of the Quality Team Manager, the QA Lab Technician II will work in a High-Performance Organization Operating Model environment performing QA Technician / Inspector functions. The Lab Technician will rotate between testing in the laboratory and performing quality checks on the plant floor.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Conduct Analytical Testing of both raw and finished products
  • Use a variety of test methods, procedures, and instrumentation (i.e., titrator, pH meter, scale, viscometer, HPLC, Moisture analyzer etc.)
  • Examine & test samples and accurately record results on paper, logbooks, and computer entry (i.e., SAP, SharePoint, etc.)
  • Interpreting data and aid in direction to the manufacturing group to ensure products meet established specifications.
  • Calibrate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment
  • Participate in and achieve acceptable results in proficiency testing event(s).
  • Perform Lab maintenance and general cleaning
  • Audit production line for key quality attributes such as code dates, fill weights, metal detection, and package integrity, etc.
  • Perform initial trouble shooting activities for operational issues (i.e., foreign material findings, supplier issues, etc.)
  • Coordinate timely quarantine and issuing of Quality Notification for finished goods and/or supplier issues
  • Communicate test results, discuss performance metrics as they relate to Quality, and work collaboratively with various levels of Operations to correct problems and improve process.
  • Partnering with operations teams to prevent production stoppages
  • Involvement in cross-functional Production/ Maintenance/Materials Management team meeting, as needed
  • Provide MAC (Manufacturing Analysis Costing) support as directed by Quality Team Manager/ QA Crew Lead/ Quality Engineer
  • Raw Material Release - involves communicating with various functions including the Supply/Planning groups to obtain release if the information is not in SAP.
  • Complete assigned shiftly, daily and weekly tasks, as assigned (i.e., Retain Room Discard, performing plant air environmental and product contact compressed air testing, potable water sampling/testing, etc.)
  • Any/all JTE Quality, Visual Factory, and other related items
  • Ability to work overtime on a short notice and required weekend work
  • Ability to be flexible with shift and workday assignments to support business need requirements.
  • Actively promote safety and identify unsafe actions and conditions using a principle-based safety approach.
  • Other duties as assigned

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Uses judgement based on the analysis of information.
  • Strong understanding and practice of Good Laboratory Practices
  • College coursework in Chemistry, Biology, Microbiology, etc. (or 3 years' experience In a laboratory setting)
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Color Vision (ability to detect color) required. This is due to the need to compare color differences in product daily.
  • Requires attention to detail in making evaluative judgements based on the analysis of factual information.
  • Expected to resolve problems by identifying and selecting solutions through the application of technical experience and review of precedents.
  • Sound and comprehensive communication and diplomacy skills are required in order to exchange complicated information, including sensitive information or information that is difficult to communicate because of its content or its audience.
  • Demonstrate McCormick's High Performance Organization Competencies: Values All People, Strategic Thinking, Influence, Personal & Team Leadership, Attracting & Developing Talent, Innovation & Business Savvy & Accumen.
  • Acceptable Attendance Required

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Two years of previous Analytical Lab experience preferred.
  • Academic laboratory work will be considered
  • Strong skills in written and verbal communication skills
  • Strong understanding of SAP transactions (Quality focused) and SAP results/data

French's is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

As a general policy, French's does not offer employment visa sponsorships upon hire or in the future. 


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