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Taste Testing Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Executive Chef

Newberg, OR · On-site

$130K/yr

Develop recipes and portion specifications in accordance with consumer tastes, nutritional needs ... testing and menu development. * Assist operation managers as requested in areas such as plate ...

Executive Chef

Newberg, OR · On-site

$130K/yr

Develop recipes and portion specifications in accordance with consumer tastes, nutritional needs ... testing and menu development. * Assist operation managers as requested in areas such as plate ...

Develop recipes and portion specifications in accordance with consumer tastes, nutritional needs ... testing and menu development. * Assist operation managers as requested in areas such as plate ...

Develop recipes and portion specifications in accordance with consumer tastes, nutritional needs ... testing and menu development. * Assist operation managers as requested in areas such as plate ...

Lab Technician

Portland, OR · On-site

$21/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Tests materials and ingredients used in beverages for such qualities as odor, appearance, taste, total acidity, carbonation, nitrogen, and pH levels to verify conformity to specifications. * Testing ...

Ophthalmic Technician 2

Portland, OR · On-site

$28.47 - $40.71/hr

... and testing, we invite you to consider this opportunity. Dever's Eye Institute, part of Legacy ... of needs and tastes. Beautiful parks and more biking paths per mile than any city in the US ...

Ophthalmic Tech II

Portland, OR · On-site

$28.47/hr

... and testing, we invite you to consider this opportunity. Dever's Eye Institute, part of Legacy ... of needs and tastes. Beautiful parks and more biking paths per mile than any city in the US ...

Ophthalmic Technician 2

Portland, OR · On-site

$28.47 - $40.71/hr

... and testing, we invite you to consider this opportunity. Dever's Eye Institute, part of Legacy ... of needs and tastes. Beautiful parks and more biking paths per mile than any city in the US ...

... and testing, we invite you to consider this opportunity. Dever's Eye Institute, part of Legacy ... of needs and tastes. Beautiful parks and more biking paths per mile than any city in the US ...

Ophthalmic Technician 2

Portland, OR · On-site

$28.47 - $40.71/hr

... and testing, we invite you to consider this opportunity. Dever's Eye Institute, part of Legacy ... of needs and tastes. Beautiful parks and more biking paths per mile than any city in the US ...

Ophthalmic Tech II

Portland, OR · On-site

$28.47/hr

... and testing, we invite you to consider this opportunity. Dever's Eye Institute, part of Legacy ... of needs and tastes. Beautiful parks and more biking paths per mile than any city in the US ...

Ophthalmic Tech II

Portland, OR · On-site

$28.47 - $40.71/hr

... and testing, we invite you to consider this opportunity. Dever's Eye Institute, part of Legacy ... of needs and tastes. Beautiful parks and more biking paths per mile than any city in the US ...

Ophthalmic Technician 2

Portland, OR · On-site

$28.47 - $40.71/hr

... and testing, we invite you to consider this opportunity. Dever's Eye Institute, part of Legacy ... of needs and tastes. Beautiful parks and more biking paths per mile than any city in the US ...

Ophthalmic Technician 2

Portland, OR · On-site

$28.47 - $40.71/hr

... and testing, we invite you to consider this opportunity. Dever's Eye Institute, part of Legacy ... of needs and tastes. Beautiful parks and more biking paths per mile than any city in the US ...

Executive Chef

Portland, OR · On-site

$105K - $115K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... testing, product specification development/sourcing, implementation of new menus, and on-going ... tastings, and customer/operator surveys. Qualifications Prior experience as an Executive Chef.

Executive Chef

Portland, OR · On-site

$105K - $115K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... testing, product specification development/sourcing, implementation of new menus, and on-going ... tastings, and customer/operator surveys. Prior experience as an Executive Chef. Excellent verbal ...

Executive Chef

Portland, OR · On-site

$75K - $104K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... testing, product specification development/sourcing, implementation of new menus, and on-going ... tastings, and customer/operator surveys. Qualifications Prior experience as an Executive Chef.

Line Cook

Portland, OR · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

Passing of final testing and management evaluation prior to assuming job responsibilities. * Must ... The team member is occasionally required to stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl and taste or smell. The ...

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Taste Testing information

See Portland, OR salary details

$14

$26

$42

How much do taste testing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for taste testing in Portland, OR is $26.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.39 and $30.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 a few minutes to several hours.

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 through job postings, and some require passing a taste test or sensory evaluation. Building experience in food or beverage industries can improve your chances of securing such roles.

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.

Is taste testing a real job?

Taste testing is a legitimate job where individuals evaluate the flavor, texture, and overall quality of food or beverages. It often requires sensory skills, attention to detail, and sometimes training or certifications, and is commonly performed in food companies, research labs, or product development settings.

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 per-product compensation, and some roles may require training or certification in food safety or sensory analysis.

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 Portland, OR?

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

Infographic showing various Taste Testing job openings in Portland, OR 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 $55,876 per year, or $26.9 per hour.

OSU Food Innovation Center Student Sensory Technician

Oregonstate

Portland, OR

Part-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Department:Food Innovation CenterSpecial Instructions to Applicants:

When applying you will be required to attach the following electronic documents:

  • A Resume/Vita
  • A cover letter indicating how your qualifications and experience have prepared you for this position.
  • A supplemental document answering the following question:
    • This position is located in Portland, OR. Would you be able to commute if you are located outside of Portland?(Open Ended Question)

For additional information please contact: Ann Colonna at Sensory.testing@oregonstate.edu


We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability, protected veteran, and other protected status.

This position is designated as a critical or security-sensitive position; therefore, the incumbent must successfully complete a Criminal History Check and be determined to be position qualified as per OSU Standard 576-055-0000 et seq. Incumbents are required to self-report convictions and those in Youth Programs may have additional Criminal History Checks every 2 years.

OSU will conduct a review of the National Sex Offender Public website prior to hire.

Note:All job offers are contingent upon Human Resources final approval

Job Description:

This recruitment will be used to fill ten (10) part-time (a maximum of 24 hours per week) Student Sensory Program Technician positions for the Food Innovation Center in Portland, Oregon, part of Oregon State University (OSU).

This is a temporary position for part-time work to assist with conducing large consumer taste tests/sensory evaluation. Tests dates are variable and may be on weekends, but Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 8:30 am to 5 pm are preferred test days/times.

Position Duties

The Student Worker will be assisting the Sensory Program staff with the scheduling of participants, preparation of food and serving of samples for consumer taste tests. Duties will include:

  • Scheduling participants

  • Sending confirmation emails

  • Making copies

  • Coding serving materials

  • Food sample preparation/serving

  • Clean up

Consumer tests are conducted both at the Oregon State University Food Innovation Center laboratory complex in downtown Portland, OR and off-site such as grocery stores or food festivals. The laboratory complex includes a reception area, 10 taste test booths and a staging area, a focus group room and a commercial kitchen.

Transferable Skill Development

OSU is committed to ensuring students are prepared for success after graduation through intentional skill development as student employees. The competencies students develop while working at OSU are defined by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) as the essential skills employers seek in their hires. In this position, students learn and build vital career-readiness skills in the primary areas below:

  • Communication, Teamwork, Professionalism, Career & Self Development

Qualifications:

Full Employment Eligibility Requirements can be found here:https://hr.oregonstate.edu/student-employment-manual/500-employment-eligibility-requirements

  • Must be academically enrolled in a high school, community college, or university and pursuing a program or course of study

  • Must meet Academic Standing Requirements; students on academic suspension are not eligible for employment

  • Must meet the applicable minimal enrollment standard

    • High School student: Regularly enrolled in a high school or participating in a home-schooling program

    • Undergraduate and post-baccalaureate student: 6 credit hours per term

    • Undergraduate international student: 12 credit hours per term*

    • Graduate student officially admitted to Graduate School: 5 credit hours per term

    • Graduate international student officially admitted to Graduate School: 9 credit hours per term*


*International students may be allowed to carry fewer hours than specified above and still be considered "full-time" by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). A reduced course load is approved by theOffice of International Services(OIS), and must be provided to the Student Employment Center.

Required

This position is designated as a critical or security-sensitive position; therefore, the incumbent must successfully complete a Criminal History Check and be determined to be position qualified as per OSU Standard 576-055-0000 et seq. Incumbents are required to self-report convictions and those in Youth Programs may have additional Criminal History Checks every 2 years.

Preferred

  • Preferred student candidates will be available for a minimum of 6 months

  • Have a current Food Handlers License

  • Have solid knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Access and Outlook)

Working Conditions/Schedule:- Sensory testing work will take place on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 8am to 5pm.
- Could be office work for recruitment and labeling or serving and preparing food samples in the sensory laboratory, which would require being on your feet for up to 8 hours per shift.Salary Range:Anticipated Start Date:2026-09-04Anticipated End Date: