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Taste Testing Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Culinary Leadership & Vision โ€ข Develop and execute seasonal, ingredient-driven menus that reflect refined American cuisine. โ€ข Lead tasting, testing, and R&D processes to ...

Kitchen Lead

Ann Arbor, MI

$17 - $21.50/hr

Lead recipe testing, plating standards, and staff tastings to ensure consistency and quality. * Maintain a strong pulse on culinary trends and bring ideas that excite both guests and the team. * Team ...

Kitchen Lead

Ann Arbor, MI

$17 - $21.50/hr

Lead recipe testing, plating standards, and staff tastings to ensure consistency and quality. * Maintain a strong pulse on culinary trends and bring ideas that excite both guests and the team. * Team ...

Construction Technician

Marquette, MI ยท Hybrid

$25 - $30/hr

Candidates will also provide materials testing and data collection for all types of construction ... Taste or smell (taste=never) X Talk or hear X Accurate 20/40 Very Accurate 20/20 Not Applicable ...

Construction Technician

Marquette, MI ยท Hybrid

$18 - $24.50/hr

Candidates will also provide materials testing and data collection for all types of construction ... Taste or smell (taste=never) X Talk or hear X Accurate 20/40 Very Accurate 20/20 Not Applicable ...

Construction Technician

Marquette, MI ยท On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

Candidates will also provide materials testing and data collection for all types of construction ... Taste or smell (taste=never) X Talk or hear X Accurate 20/40 Very Accurate 20/20 Not Applicable ...

Construction Technician

Marquette, MI ยท On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

Candidates will also provide materials testing and data collection for all types of construction ... Taste or smell (taste=never) X Talk or hear X Accurate 20/40 Very Accurate 20/20 Not Applicable ...

... testing as needed. * Prepare concentrate and product development samples for the Quality Assurance Manager and upper management. * Adhere to all GMPs, GLPs, and housekeeping standards. * Taste test ...

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Taste Testing information

See Michigan salary details

$11

$22

$34

How much do taste testing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for taste testing in Michigan is $22.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.60 and $24.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 are popular job titles related to Taste Testing jobs in Michigan? For Taste Testing jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Taste Testing jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Taste Testing jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Taste Testing jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Taste Testing job openings:
Infographic showing various Taste Testing job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, and 57% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,923 per year, or $22.1 per hour.
K-12 Sales Specialist (Food Broker)

K-12 Sales Specialist (Food Broker)

Affinity Group

Detroit, MI โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

K-12 Sales Specialist - Michigan
About Affinity Group
Affinity Group is one of the fastest-growing food sales and marketing agencies in North America. We represent highly recognizable brands in the industry. Our team brings a consultative, localized approach to drive market growth and build meaningful partnerships within the K-12 school nutrition segment
Role Overview
We are seeking a results-driven, relationship-focused K-12 Sales Specialist to expand our market share across Michigan. In this role, you will work collaboratively with our other Sales Team members and the K12 Specialist in Western Michigan to champion our clients' products by partnering directly with school nutrition teams and distributors to increase menu frequency. This is a consultative sales position ideal for someone who is proactive, professional, and passionate about school nutrition and relationship-based selling.
A Typical Week Includes
  • Strategy & Execution: Schedule and conduct in-person sales appointments with K-12 school districts and distributors. Sampling products and prepared recipes is key!
  • Pipeline Management: Handle prospecting, lead generation, and track sales activity within our industry leading AI NXT/CRM system to meet trimester sales goals.
  • Culinary Engagement: Organize and lead taste-testing events and food presentations at district and state levels.
  • Strategic Collaboration: Partner with the Bid Team and Senior Director to analyze school bids and build competitive proposals.
  • Relationship Building: Serve as a trusted advisor to school nutrition leaders while responding to client inquiries timely.
What We Are Looking For
  • Experience: 2-5 years in foodservice sales, food brokerage, or school operations preferred.
  • Core Skills: Proven track record in relationship selling, influencing buyers, and closing deals.
  • Communication: Exceptional presentation, public speaking, and persuasion capabilities.
  • Mindset: A creative, growth-oriented professional with a genuine passion for food and menu innovation. Embracing innovation is key to success.
Requirements & Schedule
  • Travel: Weekly travel across Michigan with occasional regional air travel.
  • License: Valid driver's license and reliable transportation required.
  • Schedule: Monday to Friday (8:00 AM - 5:00 PM) with flexibility to support customer needs. Expect 10-15 evening/weekend events annually.
  • Tech Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office, virtual meeting tools (Teams/Zoom), and CRM platforms.
  • Physical Ability: Ability to stand for long periods and safely lift 20-50 lbs during food shows.
Bonus Points
  • Associate or bachelor's degree.
  • Direct experience working with K-12 School Nutrition Programs.
  • Advanced familiarity with modern sales technology platforms.
  • Experience with Dietetics and Nutrition
Perks & Benefits
  • Competitive base salary plus performance-based bonus incentives.
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
  • 401(k) retirement plan and disability benefits.
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid company holidays.
  • Corporate employee discounts.

The Affinity Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.