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Taste Testing Jobs in Connecticut (NOW HIRING)

Technician, Laboratory

Newington, CT · On-site

$19 - $25.25/hr

Perform microbiological/bacteriological sampling and testing of dairy food products in accordance ... Sensory health, ability to taste, smell and evaluate odors and flavors. * Physical lifting up to 50 ...

New

Technician, Laboratory

Newington, CT · On-site

$19 - $25.25/hr

Perform microbiological/bacteriological sampling and testing of dairy food products in accordance ... Sensory health, ability to taste, smell and evaluate odors and flavors. * Physical lifting up to 50 ...

New

The Pastry Chef must be creative and continually researching and testing new and different dessert ... Taste all products produced to assess quality. * Notify the Executive Chef of any product shortages ...

Sous Chef

New Milford, CT

$52K - $70K/yr

Menu development and testing * Wood-fire cooking and hearth management * Prep and production ... We want someone who enjoys being on the line, cooking, tasting, teaching, organizing, and solving ...

Sous Chef

New Milford, CT

$52K - $70K/yr

Menu development and testing * Wood-fire cooking and hearth management * Prep and production ... We want someone who enjoys being on the line, cooking, tasting, teaching, organizing, and solving ...

The Pastry Chef must be creative and continually researching and testing new and different dessert ... Taste all products produced to assess quality. * Notify the Executive Chef of any product shortages ...

Taste Testing information

What is taste testing?

Taste testing is the process of sampling and evaluating foods or beverages to assess their flavor, texture, aroma, and overall quality. It is commonly used by food manufacturers, restaurants, and research organizations to gather feedback on new products or recipes. Professional taste testers, also known as sensory analysts, may be trained to detect subtle differences in taste and texture, while consumer taste testers provide insights based on personal preference. The results from taste testing help companies improve existing products and develop new ones that better meet consumer expectations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a taste tester, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Taste Tester, you need a refined palate, sensory evaluation skills, and often a background in food science or culinary arts. Familiarity with sensory analysis tools, tasting protocols, and sometimes certifications such as sensory panel training are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, clear communication, and objectivity help professionals provide accurate and constructive feedback. These skills are vital for ensuring product quality, consistency, and consumer satisfaction in the food and beverage industry.

What are some of the common challenges faced by taste testers, and how can they be managed?

Taste testers often encounter challenges such as palate fatigue, maintaining objectivity, and adhering to strict dietary guidelines. To manage palate fatigue, testers take regular breaks and cleanse their palates between samples. Staying objective requires following standardized evaluation protocols and sometimes participating in blind testing panels. Additionally, taste testers must be vigilant about allergens and food sensitivities, making communication with supervisors and teams crucial for safety and effectiveness.

What is the difference between Taste Testing vs Food Quality Inspector?

AspectTaste TestingFood Quality Inspector
Required CredentialsNone or basic sensory trainingFood safety certifications, quality assurance training
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, food production facilities, tasting roomsManufacturing plants, inspection sites, laboratories
Employer & Industry UsageFood companies, flavor houses, research labsFood manufacturing, regulatory agencies, quality assurance firms

While both roles involve working with food, Taste Testing focuses on evaluating flavor, aroma, and overall sensory experience, often without formal certifications. Food Quality Inspectors assess compliance with safety and quality standards, requiring certifications and detailed inspections. Taste Testing is more subjective and sensory-based, whereas Food Quality Inspectors perform objective evaluations to ensure product safety and standards.

Can you get paid to taste test food?

Taste testing jobs are paid positions where individuals evaluate food products for companies, often requiring sensory skills and attention to detail. Payment can vary from hourly wages to product compensation, and some roles may involve participating in focus groups or product development sessions.

How do I get a job as a taste tester?

To become a taste tester, you typically need a good sense of taste and smell, attention to detail, and sometimes a background in food science or related fields. Many companies hire taste testers for product development or quality control, and applying through food companies, testing agencies, or online platforms can be effective. Some roles may require specific certifications or the ability to work flexible hours in a sensory evaluation environment.

How much does taste testing pay?

Taste testing jobs typically pay between $10 and $25 per hour, depending on the company and location. Some opportunities may offer flat rates for specific projects or product testing sessions, which can last from 30 minutes to a few hours. Experience and the type of products tested can influence pay rates for taste testers.

Is being a taste tester a real job?

Yes, being a taste tester is a legitimate job where individuals evaluate the flavor, texture, and quality of food or beverages. It often requires good sensory skills, attention to detail, and sometimes specific training or certifications, depending on the industry or company. Taste testers are employed by food companies, research labs, or quality control departments to help develop or ensure product standards.

What are popular job titles related to Taste Testing jobs in Connecticut?

For Taste Testing jobs in Connecticut, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Taste Testing jobs in Connecticut look for?

The top searched job categories for Taste Testing jobs in Connecticut are:

Infographic showing various Taste Testing job openings in Connecticut as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, and 53% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Technician, Laboratory

Newington, CT • On-site


Saputo
Food and Drink Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 60 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

109th of 443 rated food and drinks producers

Good employer

Paid breaks


$19 - $25.25/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

On-Site

Newington, CT

Full time

JR65940

At Saputo, we bring good to the table by making high-quality products, investing in our people, and supporting communities around the world . As a top 10 global dairy processor, we value contributions that matter and strive to foster an inclusive, growth-driven work environment. Ready to bring your best?

Business Title: Quality Assurance Technician

Lab Technician

This screen displays all of the Requisition's details.

Position Summary

The Quality Control Technician's responsibilities as the subject matter expert of the production shift and actively monitors production areas to inspect product quality, sample and analyze against established specification and controls. Documents and reports any or potential quality deviation, and recommend corrective and preventative actions (CAPA).

Tasks and Responsibilities:

  • Collects samples and perform physical analytical sampling and testing of raw ingredients, packaging materials and finished goods dairy food products in accordance with established guidelines. Ability to apply and interpret results.
  • Perform microbiological/bacteriological sampling and testing of dairy food products in accordance with established guidelines. Ability to apply and interpret results.
  • Identify and effectively communicate any out-of-specification analytical test results. Follow established notification protocol.
  • Routinely collect product samples from production lines as outlined by testing requirements.
  • Exceptional organizational skills in order to maintain all QC records and filing.
  • Accurately and neatly complete analytical testing documents and enter data into system.
  • Ability to prepare various stock solutions used in the laboratory.
  • Calibrate and maintain all lab testing equipment.
  • Perform environmental control swabbing after clean-up and CIP/SIP. Report any deviations.
  • Knowledge of consumer complaint investigation process.
  • Support internal and external audits.
  • Support mock and product recall program guidelines.
  • Prepare and process production records to isolate any out of specification product including any product deviations from standard, on-hold, regulatory holds, etc.
  • Prepare and distribute customer certificates of analysis.
  • Must be proficient with all quality control functions throughout the facility.
  • Must be able to complete, pass and maintain specific State regulatory licensing/certificate requirements (CDFA, DFA Appendix N, Good Laboratory Practices).
  • Perform good laboratory housekeeping within established housekeeping guidelines.
  • Comply with all Quality Assurance Procedures (QAP's).
  • Comply with federal, state and local dairy food regulations.
  • Adhere to the Saputo Code of Ethics and actively apply the Saputo Company Values.
  • Work together professionally with co-workers and other department personnel.
  • Other duties as required by management.

Job Requirements:

  • Associate's Degree with a concentration in Food or Dairy Science, preferred.
  • Previous experience with food quality specifications, physical and analytical testing, process control monitoring and positive release documentation or similar experience with strict adherence to protocol is preferred.
  • Advanced quality/food safety training and/or certifications is a plus, but not required.
  • An working understanding of food manufacturing acronyms (SQF, QA/QC, CQP, QAP, HACCP, SOP,5S, GMP, etc.)
  • Ability to pass and successfully maintain regulatory certification, as required.
  • Strong math skills.
  • Strong computer and business skills (SAP, Microsoft Office products, email, copy, scanning)
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills, in English.
  • Demonstrated work history

Physical Demands:

  • Ability to work in manufacturing environment which includes but not limited to: noise, changing temperatures (hot, wet, cold, humid), prolonged periods of standing/walking. Bending/stooping/climbing stairs, maneuvering around manufacturing equipment throughout the shift.
  • Working with chemicals, wearing personal protective equipment and following approved chemical handling procedures.
  • Good visual acuity with the ability to see and differentiate color.
  • Sensory health, ability to taste, smell and evaluate odors and flavors.
  • Physical lifting up to 50-lbs intermittently throughout shift. Physical lifting up to 50-lbs with assistance.
  • Shift flexibility. This is a support role for a 24/7 manufacturing facility. Our quality technicians are assigned to a team on shifts, 24/7 operation to support manufacturing. Work days and shifts may change to help cover vacations/absences, during plant downtime or quality related events such as audits.

In the USA, Saputo ranks among the top three cheese producers and is one of the top producers of extended shelf-life and cultured dairy products, with a portfolio of well-loved brands such as Stella, Frigo Cheese, Montchevre , Stella, and Treasure Cave. We also boast a strong foodservice presence, partnering with reputable chain restaurants and broadline distributors.

Whether your expertise lies in manufacturing, operations, supply chain, sales, quality assurance, or in any other function, your role is integral to our success. You will make contributions that matter, all while working alongside colleagues who genuinely care about your success and who will roll up their sleeves to help.

Accessibility

Saputo Cheese USA Inc. endeavors to make Saputo.com/careers accessible to all users. If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact Human Resources at 214-863-2300 or email us.recruitingsupport@saputo.com. This contact information is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.

EEO

Saputo Cheese USA Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you'd like more information on your EEO rights under law, please visit www.EEOC.gov.

California Applicant Privacy Notice (CCPA)

To review the Saputo Cheese USA Inc. Privacy Notice for California applicants, please visit our Corporate website associated section by clicking here (English) or here (Spanish).

Making Good Food Is Our Passion, and we do it responsibly. Our caring teams process about 10 billion litres of milk annually into a diversified range of dairy and dairy alternative products sold in over 50 countries. With 54 manufacturing facilities and over 18,100 employees, we operate our leading business in Canada, the USA, Australia, and the United Kingdom.

All dairy processors have access to the same raw material and equipment; what distinguishes us is our can-do spirit and our diverse, inclusive work culture that empowers employees to grow in their own way.

Stay in touch! Follow the hashtag #OurBestIsMadeOfYours on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/saputo_inc/?hl=en) , Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/SaputoInc) , and LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/saputo/posts/?feedView=all) .



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