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Professional Food Taster Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tasting Room Associate

Portland, OR · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Maintain a respectful and professional attitude toward all wine offerings and brands in the tasting ... Prepare food items as needed for service, ensuring high standards of quality and food safety.

Team Member

Euless, TX · On-site

$10.50 - $14.25/hr

Food Tastes Great * (Food Quality) Makes sure the food looks and tastes great and is high quality ... Performs professionally during difficult situations and / or high volume times. * It takes pride in ...

Team Member

Brighton, CO · On-site

$12 - $16.25/hr

Food Tastes Great * (Food Quality) Makes sure the food looks and tastes great and is high quality ... Performs professionally during difficult situations and / or high volume times. * It takes pride in ...

Team Member

Castaic, CA · On-site

$11.50 - $15.50/hr

Food Tastes Great * (Food Quality) Makes sure the food looks and tastes great and is high quality ... Performs professionally during difficult situations and / or high volume times. * It takes pride in ...

Team Member

Granada Hills, CA · On-site

$12.50 - $17/hr

Food Tastes Great * (Food Quality) Makes sure the food looks and tastes great and is high quality ... Performs professionally during difficult situations and / or high volume times. * It takes pride in ...

Team Member

Valencia, CA · On-site

$12 - $16/hr

Food Tastes Great * (Food Quality) Makes sure the food looks and tastes great and is high quality ... Performs professionally during difficult situations and / or high volume times. * It takes pride in ...

Team Member

Euless, TX · On-site

$10.75 - $14.25/hr

Food Tastes Great * (Food Quality) Makes sure the food looks and tastes great and is high quality ... Performs professionally during difficult situations and / or high volume times. * It takes pride in ...

Team Member

Canyon Country, CA · On-site

$12.50 - $16.75/hr

Food Tastes Great * (Food Quality) Makes sure the food looks and tastes great and is high quality ... Performs professionally during difficult situations and / or high volume times. * It takes pride in ...

Team Member

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$11.25 - $15/hr

Food Tastes Great * (Food Quality) Makes sure the food looks and tastes great and is high quality ... Performs professionally during difficult situations and / or high volume times. * It takes pride in ...

Team Member

Brighton, CO · On-site

$12 - $16.25/hr

Food Tastes Great * (Food Quality) Makes sure the food looks and tastes great and is high quality ... Performs professionally during difficult situations and / or high volume times. * It takes pride in ...

Team Member

North Richland Hills, TX · On-site

$10.25 - $13.75/hr

Food Tastes Great * (Food Quality) Makes sure the food looks and tastes great and is high quality ... Performs professionally during difficult situations and / or high volume times. * It takes pride in ...

Team Member

Granada Hills, CA · On-site

$12.50 - $17/hr

Food Tastes Great * (Food Quality) Makes sure the food looks and tastes great and is high quality ... Performs professionally during difficult situations and / or high volume times. * It takes pride in ...

Team Member

Azle, TX · On-site

$10.25 - $13.75/hr

Food Tastes Great * (Food Quality) Makes sure the food looks and tastes great and is high quality ... Performs professionally during difficult situations and / or high volume times. * It takes pride in ...

Team Member

Castaic, CA · On-site

$11.50 - $15.50/hr

Food Tastes Great * (Food Quality) Makes sure the food looks and tastes great and is high quality ... Performs professionally during difficult situations and / or high volume times. * It takes pride in ...

Team Member

Grapevine, TX · On-site

$10.75 - $14.50/hr

Food Tastes Great * (Food Quality) Makes sure the food looks and tastes great and is high quality ... Performs professionally during difficult situations and / or high volume times. * It takes pride in ...

Team Member

Valencia, CA · On-site

$12 - $16/hr

Food Tastes Great * (Food Quality) Makes sure the food looks and tastes great and is high quality ... Performs professionally during difficult situations and / or high volume times. * It takes pride in ...

Team Member

Castaic, CA · On-site

$11.50 - $15.50/hr

Food Tastes Great * (Food Quality) Makes sure the food looks and tastes great and is high quality ... Performs professionally during difficult situations and / or high volume times. * It takes pride in ...

Team Member

Santa Clarita, CA · On-site

$12 - $16/hr

Food Tastes Great * (Food Quality) Makes sure the food looks and tastes great and is high quality ... Performs professionally during difficult situations and / or high volume times. * It takes pride in ...

$12.50 - $16.75/hr

Food Tastes Great * (Food Quality) Makes sure the food looks and tastes great and is high quality ... Performs professionally during difficult situations and / or high volume times. * It takes pride in ...

Showing results 41-60

Professional Food Taster information

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$8

$22

$48

How much do professional food taster jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional food taster in the United States is $22.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $23.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a professional food taster?

Professional food tasters are individuals trained to evaluate the taste, texture, aroma, and overall quality of food and beverages. They work for food companies, restaurants, or research organizations to ensure products meet quality standards and consumer preferences. Their feedback helps companies refine recipes, develop new products, and maintain consistency in flavor and quality. Food tasters may specialize in specific products, such as wine, chocolate, or coffee, and often have a background in food science or culinary arts.

What does a professional food taster do?

A professional food taster evaluates products and provides feedback for a food manufacturer, restaurant, or another food production business. Your primary duties include providing feedback to the manufacturer or producer, typically in the form of a report. After you evaluate the product, you may offer suggestions about how to improve it. You may also look at consumer research so that you can include the flavor preferences of your client’s target market in your report. Your responsibilities as a professional food taster may also involve evaluating drinks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a professional food taster?

To thrive as a Professional Food Taster, you need a refined palate, excellent sensory evaluation skills, and typically a background in food science, culinary arts, or nutrition. Familiarity with sensory analysis techniques, food safety protocols, and tools like flavor profile charts is important. Strong communication, attention to detail, and the ability to provide objective feedback are essential soft skills for this role. These skills ensure consistent, high-quality product evaluation and help companies refine flavors and maintain standards.

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

Professional food tasters often encounter challenges such as palate fatigue, which can occur when sampling multiple foods in a short period, making it harder to detect subtle flavors. Maintaining objectivity and consistency in evaluations is crucial, especially when working with diverse products. Additionally, strict hygiene and dietary guidelines must be followed to ensure accurate and safe assessments. Working alongside chefs, product developers, and quality assurance teams requires clear communication to translate sensory feedback into actionable insights.

What is the difference between Professional Food Taster vs Food Critic?

AspectProfessional Food TasterFood Critic
CredentialsOften requires culinary knowledge or sensory trainingTypically has journalism, writing, or culinary background
Work EnvironmentTest kitchens, food labs, or tasting panelsRestaurants, media outlets, or publications
Employer & IndustryFood companies, research labs, or quality assuranceMedia, newspapers, magazines, online platforms

While both roles involve evaluating food, a Professional Food Taster focuses on sensory testing for quality and product development, often within food companies or labs. A Food Critic writes reviews and provides opinions on dining experiences for media outlets. The roles differ mainly in purpose and setting, but both require strong sensory skills and food knowledge.

How much do you get paid as a professional food taster?

Professional food tasters typically earn between $20,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, employer, and location. Some may be paid hourly, with rates ranging from $10 to $25 per hour, especially for freelance or part-time roles. Compensation can also include benefits such as food samples or bonuses for high-quality evaluations.

How much money do professional food tasters make?

Professional food tasters typically earn between $20,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, employer, and location. Senior or specialized tasters in the industry can earn higher salaries, and some may receive additional benefits or bonuses for their sensory evaluation skills.

What cities are hiring for Professional Food Taster jobs?

Cities with the most Professional Food Taster job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Food Taster jobs?

The most popular types of Food Taster jobs are:

What states have the most Professional Food Taster jobs?

States with the most job openings for Professional Food Taster jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Professional Food Taster jobs?

For Professional Food Taster jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Professional Food Taster job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,472 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Tasting Room Associate

Portland, OR • On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Conduct engaging and informative wine tastings, guiding guests through the tasting experience and sharing knowledge about each wine

  • Promote and sell Battle Creek Cellars wines, wine club memberships, and merchandise to guests

  • Set up and organize tasting stations, maintain cleanliness of the tasting room, and process sales transactions


Job description

Tasting Room Associate – Battle Creek Cellars

 

Position Overview:
 The Tasting Room Associate is responsible for creating a welcoming and engaging experience for visitors at Battle Creek Cellars. In this role, you’ll conduct wine tastings, assist customers in selecting wines, and help promote the winery’s products and offerings. You will showcase excellent customer service, a passion for wine, and sales skills to enhance the guest experience.

Key Responsibilities:

 

  1. Wine Tastings and Customer Service:
    • Conduct engaging and informative wine tastings, guiding guests through the tasting experience and sharing knowledge about each wine.
    • Offer personalized wine recommendations based on guests' preferences and needs.
    • Provide exceptional customer service by answering questions, addressing concerns, and making each guest feel welcome.
    • Help guests explore different wine options and make them feel comfortable throughout the tasting experience.
  2. Sales and Wine Education:
    • Promote and sell Battle Creek Cellars wines, wine club memberships, and merchandise to guests.
    • Share knowledge of the winery’s wines, including production methods, characteristics, and ideal food pairings.
    • Educate customers on the winemaking process and winery story to help enhance their appreciation for the wines.
  3. Customer Relationship Management:
    • Build positive relationships with guests, encouraging return visits and loyalty to the brand.
    • Assist in managing customer databases and contact lists for follow-ups and providing personalized service.
    • Assist with wine club sign-ups, cancellations, and inquiries, ensuring guests feel valued and supported.
    • Maintain a respectful and professional attitude toward all wine offerings and brands in the tasting room.
  4. Tasting Room Operations:
    • Set up and organize tasting stations to ensure they are clean, attractive, and well-stocked before and throughout the day.
    • Maintain cleanliness and orderliness of the tasting room, including the tasting bar, seating areas, and display areas.
    • Accurately process sales transactions, including cash, check, credit card, and gift card payments.
    • Monitor stock levels, ensuring items are replenished and restocked as necessary.
  5. Event Support:
    • Assist with execution of winery events, private tastings, and special functions.
    • Set up and break down event spaces, including arranging seating and replenishing wine and supplies.
    • Provide general event support to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for guests.
  6. Compliance and Safety:
    • Adhere to all legal and safety regulations, including responsible alcohol service and age verification.
    • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized working environment, reporting any safety concerns or incidents.
    • Follow the winery’s health and safety procedures, including handling food and beverages according to safety standards.
  7. Kitchen Support:
    • Prepare food items as needed for service, ensuring high standards of quality and food safety.
    • Follow food safety and cleanliness standards, including during opening and closing procedures.

 

Qualifications and Skills:

  • Previous experience in customer service or hospitality is preferred but not required.
  • Basic knowledge or interest in wine, with a willingness to learn and grow wine knowledge.
  • Able to work weekdays/weekends 1:00 pm – 9:00 pm, with flexibility to work occasional holidays.
  • Strong communication skills and ability to create a welcoming, friendly atmosphere for guests.
  • Sales-oriented with the ability to upsell and cross-sell products.
  • Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities, with attention to detail.
  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment and maintain composure under pressure.
  • Physical ability to stand for extended periods and lift boxes of wine or other heavy items.
  • Familiarity with point-of-sale systems is a plus (OrderPort & Tock).
  • Must have OLCC Service Permit and Food Handler's Permit.

Compensation & Benefits:

  • Average high-season hourly rate of $29-35/hr. that includes a base hourly rate of $17/hr. + gratuities, commissions, and sales incentives.
  • Wine & retail merchandise at 50% off.
  • This position earns accrued paid sick time.