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Taste Testing Jobs in Eagan, MN (NOW HIRING)

Minnesota Jobs

Sensory Trained Panelist

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$16.50/hr

Comfortable working within structured procedures, timing, and testing conditions. Qualifications include: * No conditions that impair taste, smell, or tactile perception (e.g., chronic sinus issues ...

Pepsico

Technician - Quality Control

Burnsville, MN · On-site

$19.25 - $24.75/hr

Experience with sensory testing (e.g., taste, odor, appearance vs. reference sample, etc.) * Experience with basic chemistry (e.g., titrator, pH, dosing, graduated cylinders, mixing, etc.

Loram

Software Engineer II - Desktop

Hamel, MN · On-site

Testing, Installation, & Commissioning * Coordinate testing, installation, and commissioning of ... Can stand, sit, walk, reach, balance, stoop, kneel, hear, taste and smell. * Can see up close ...

Pepsico

Technician - Quality Control

Burnsville, MN · On-site

$34.24/hr

Experience with sensory testing (e.g., taste, odor, appearance vs. reference sample, etc.) * Experience with basic chemistry (e.g., titrator, pH, dosing, graduated cylinders, mixing, etc.

Eurofins Scientific

Sensory Trained Panelist

Plymouth, MN · On-site

$16.50/hr

Comfortable working within structured procedures, timing, and testing conditions. Qualifications * No conditions that impair taste, smell, or tactile perception (e.g., chronic sinus issues, active ...

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Taste Testing information

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How much do taste testing jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for taste testing in Eagan, MN is $25.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.58 and $29.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Eagan, MN?

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

What cities near Eagan, MN are hiring for Taste Testing jobs?

Cities near Eagan, MN with the most Taste Testing job openings:

Taste Testing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Taste Testing job openings in Eagan, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, and 51% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,729 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Sensory Trained Panelist

Eurofins USA Food Testing

Minneapolis, MN • On-site

$16.50/hr

Other

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Sensory Trained Panelist

Part-time Position

Pay Range: $16.50/Hr.

SAM is a fast-growing and global sensory and consumer research consultancy. Our mission is to allow consumers a voice in the development of outstanding food, beverage, pet, and health & beauty products so as to create high quality and memorable experiences. We help our clients:

  • Develop new product ideas
  • Re-energize a well-established product
  • Assess product-concept fit or packaging effectiveness
  • Understand the product, brand and category competitive landscapes
  • Protect product quality from inception to the end of shelf life

SAM The National Food Lab is the division of SAM that provides these services for all USA-based clients. Our sensory science program resides in our USA headquarters in Minneapolis, MN.

The Sensory Trained Panelist plays a critical role in supporting sensory research projects by ensuring attendance to the training and panel sessions. Working directly with the Panel Leader and reporting to the Sensory Research Manager, this position focuses on operational excellence and adherence to protocols to deliver high-quality data for client projects.

Workload will be varied, so we ask that you are flexible with working hours. Typical panel sessions will either be held between 10:00 AM-12:00 PM or between 12:30-3:00 PM.

· You will learn how to objectively assess the properties of products and become part of a trained Expert Sensory Panel.

As a trained, expert panelist you will be expected to:

  • Work collaboratively as part of a team: exchange, listen, reach an agreement on sensory properties.
  • Evaluate products with objectivity and identify the differences between them, using software on a computer.
  • Respect and apply test protocols and instructions given by the panel leader.
  • Respect project confidentiality.
  • Take part in further training to expand the range of products that you can evaluate.

This position reports directly to the Sensory Research Manager.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Evaluate products objectively
  • Follow standardized testing protocols.
  • Use sensory scales accurately.
  • Participate in training and calibration sessions.
  • Provide detailed and reliable feedback.
  • Maintain confidentiality.
  • Follow hygiene and safety guidelines.
  • Arrive on time and prepare.
  • Communicate with the panel leader.

Core Skills:

  • Strong sensory acuity
  • Objective evaluation skills
  • Attention to detail
  • Consistency and reliability
  • Clear verbal and written communication
  • Ability to follow protocols

Qualifications:

  • No conditions that impair taste, smell, or tactile perception (e.g., chronic sinus issues, active colds, skin sensitivities depending on product type).
  • Availability for scheduled sessions
  • Comfort with repeated product evaluation
  • Willingness to participate in training
  • Confidentiality and professionalism
  • Basic computer literacy

Candidate Requirements:

  • No food allergies or intolerances.
  • No skin allergies or intolerances.
  • Would enjoy tasting a variety of different foods, flavors and ingredients, smell a variety of different fragrances and test skin creams, soaps & other personal care products.
  • Interested in a long-term role – please do not apply if you are a student or looking for short-term work e.g. a summer job.
  • Interpersonal team skills.

Pay Range: $16.50/Hr.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Eurofins USA Food Testing is a Disabled and Veteran Equal Employment Opportunity employer.

Apply