Cupping Judge Job Description [Updated for 2025]

cupping judge job description

In the realm of coffee culture, the focus on cupping judges has never been more intense.

As coffee culture evolves, the demand for discerning palates who can assess, appreciate and grade different coffee types is escalating.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a cupping judge?

Whether you are:

  • A job seeker attempting to understand the nuances of this role,
  • A hiring manager formulating the perfect candidate profile,
  • Or simply fascinated by the intricate world of coffee tasting,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable cupping judge job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Cupping Judge Duties and Responsibilities

Cupping Judges play a critical role in the coffee industry.

They use their expert knowledge of coffee to evaluate and grade various coffee beans through a process known as cupping.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

  • Evaluate different types of coffee beans based on their aroma and taste
  • Perform cupping sessions which involve deeply sniffing the coffee, then loudly slurping the coffee so it spreads to the back of the tongue
  • Assign scores to coffee beans based on their flavor, aftertaste, acidity, body, balance and other characteristics
  • Identify any defects or inconsistencies in the coffee beans
  • Prepare detailed reports on the quality of the coffee beans tested
  • Maintain up-to-date knowledge on the coffee industry, including new brewing techniques and coffee varieties
  • Recommend coffee beans to buyers and other interested parties
  • Ensure that the cupping room and equipment are clean and ready for use
  • Document each aspect of a cupping session as a reference for future assessments and quality control

 

Cupping Judge Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking an experienced and passionate Cupping Judge to join our team.

The Cupping Judge will be responsible for tasting and assessing different varieties of coffee, and providing valuable feedback and quality control for our products.

The ideal candidate must be knowledgeable about the different stages of coffee production, from bean selection to brewing methods.

They should also have a keen sense of taste and smell, and be able to distinguish subtle differences between coffee varieties.

 

Responsibilities

  • Sample and assess various coffee beans and brewed coffee.
  • Keep detailed records of tasted products, including aroma, taste, and body.
  • Identify and evaluate quality issues in coffee beans and brewed coffee.
  • Collaborate with production team to enhance the quality of our coffee products.
  • Assist in developing new blends or improving existing ones.
  • Maintain up-to-date knowledge about coffee industry trends and advancements.
  • Provide training and guidance to team members on cupping and tasting techniques.

 

Qualifications

  • Proven experience as a Cupping Judge or similar role in the coffee industry.
  • Strong knowledge of the coffee production process, from bean selection to brewing.
  • Excellent sensory skills, including smell and taste.
  • Ability to keep detailed and accurate records.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Passionate about coffee and continuous learning.
  • Certification as a Professional Cupping Judge from a recognized coffee association is a plus.

 

Benefits

  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Free coffee!

 

Additional Information

  • Job Title: Cupping Judge
  • Work Environment: Laboratory and office setting. Some travel may be required for coffee sourcing or industry events.
  • Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head of Quality Control or Production Manager.
  • Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
  • Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
  • Employment Type: Full-time
  • Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
  • Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Cupping Judge Do?

Cupping Judges are professional taste testers, predominantly in the coffee industry.

They play a crucial role in maintaining coffee quality and standards across the globe.

Their main responsibility is to evaluate and grade coffee based on its taste, aroma, and overall quality.

This is done through a process called ‘cupping’, which is a standardized method of tasting and scoring coffee.

Cupping Judges perform several sensory assessments such as smelling the coffee grounds, slurping the coffee so it spreads to the back of the tongue, and allowing the coffee to cool so they can taste the various flavor profiles.

They are adept at identifying flavors, acidity, body, and aftertaste, and use a specific scoring system to rate the coffee’s attributes.

They also look for any defects in the coffee that may affect the overall taste and quality.

Not only do they perform these evaluations, but Cupping Judges also often provide feedback and recommendations to coffee producers and roasters on how they can improve their product.

To be a Cupping Judge, one must have a keen sense of taste and smell, and an extensive knowledge of coffee production and processing methods.

They often have to keep their palate sensitive and free from any strong flavors or scents, especially during a cupping session.

Many Cupping Judges are certified by coffee associations and have undergone rigorous training to hone their skills and knowledge.

 

Cupping Judge Qualifications and Skills

A Cupping Judge should possess a unique set of skills and qualifications that complement their specialized role, such as:

  • Deep knowledge and understanding of coffee varieties, production, and processing methods to effectively judge the quality and characteristics of different coffee samples.
  • Excellent sensory skills to accurately assess the taste, aroma, and body of coffee samples.
  • Attention to detail to identify subtle differences between coffee samples and to ensure strict adherence to cupping protocols.
  • Strong communication skills to effectively articulate and document the tasting notes, ratings, and feedback for each coffee sample.
  • Good organizational skills to manage multiple coffee samples, keep track of all tasting notes, and maintain a clean and organized cupping environment.
  • Ability to work well in a team, as they often need to collaborate with other cupping judges, roasters, and producers.
  • Physical stamina for long tasting sessions and the ability to maintain a consistent palate throughout.
  • Continuous learning and development skills to keep up-to-date with the latest trends, research, and developments in the coffee industry.

 

Cupping Judge Experience Requirements

Cupping Judges are professionals specialized in tasting and grading coffee.

Typically, they start their journey in the coffee industry, often as baristas or coffee shop assistants, where they gain a basic understanding and appreciation of coffee varieties and brewing techniques.

This can take about 1 to 2 years of experience.

As they progress, they may be trained in coffee cupping, a standardized method of coffee tasting, and gain a deeper understanding of the flavors, aromas, and defects in coffee.

This often involves on-the-job training under an experienced Cupping Judge or through professional courses offered by recognized bodies like the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA).

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience often become adept at cupping, and may undertake further training to refine their tasting abilities and understanding of specialty coffee.

They may also start participating in coffee cupping competitions to gain recognition in the industry.

Those with more than 5 years of experience have likely honed their skills to a high level and may have gained certification as a professional Cupping Judge from recognized coffee organizations.

They may also have some experience in leading cupping sessions or training others in the art of coffee cupping.

At this stage, they are typically ready for a lead Cupping Judge position or can work as independent consultants.

 

Cupping Judge Education and Training Requirements

Cupping Judges, often called coffee tasters, generally require a high school diploma or equivalent education.

Prospective cupping judges often gain initial experience and knowledge about coffee through entry-level positions in the coffee industry, such as a barista.

This allows them to understand the basics of coffee making and the various types of coffee beans.

However, to officially become a Cupping Judge, individuals must complete a certification program offered by organizations like the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA).

This involves theoretical and practical training in coffee cupping techniques, bean grading, and understanding the coffee flavor wheel.

Advanced courses on coffee origins, roasting techniques, and the science of extraction can also be pursued to improve their skills and knowledge.

Some Cupping Judges may also choose to gain experience and knowledge through travels to coffee-growing regions to understand the growth process and the unique characteristics of different coffee beans.

This position requires a refined palate, an excellent sense of taste and smell, and the ability to identify subtle differences in flavors.

Continuous training and experience are required to maintain and improve these sensory skills.

 

Cupping Judge Salary Expectations

A Cupping Judge, also known as a coffee taster, can expect to earn an average salary of around $40,000 (USD) per year.

However, the actual salary can fluctuate based on factors such as level of experience, certification, location, and the organization they work for.

Certified coffee tasters working for large coffee corporations may earn significantly more.

 

Cupping Judge Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Cupping Judge need?

Cupping Judges should have excellent sensory skills, especially the ability to discern different flavors and aromas.

They need to be meticulous, have a keen attention to detail, and a good memory to recall the characteristics of various coffees.

Good communication and descriptive language skills are also essential to effectively express their observations.

 

Do Cupping Judges need a degree?

Cupping Judges don’t necessarily need a degree, but they should have a deep knowledge of coffee, which can be gained through courses and experience.

Some Judges may hold certifications from recognized coffee organizations, such as the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA).

These certifications provide formal training in coffee tasting and grading.

 

What should you look for in a Cupping Judge’s resume?

A Cupping Judge’s resume should showcase their experience in the coffee industry and any relevant certifications, like from the SCA.

They might also have experience working in other roles within the coffee industry, such as a barista or roaster, which can further deepen their understanding of coffee.

Proficiency in flavor profiling and a demonstrated ability to discern subtle differences in taste and aroma are crucial.

 

What qualities make a good Cupping Judge?

A good Cupping Judge should have a passion for coffee and a desire to continually learn about it.

They should be objective, patient, and able to concentrate for long periods.

Their palates should be sensitive to the wide variety of flavors found in coffee.

They must also have the ability to communicate their findings effectively and clearly.

 

How does one become a certified Cupping Judge?

Becoming a certified Cupping Judge involves undergoing training and passing examinations from recognized coffee organizations like the SCA.

These exams test an individual’s ability to taste and grade coffee according to established standards.

Additionally, gaining hands-on experience in the coffee industry, such as working as a barista or in coffee production, can also be beneficial.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the intricacies of what it truly means to be a cupping judge.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about tasting coffee.

It’s about shaping the sensory journey of coffee lovers, one cup at a time.

With our comprehensive cupping judge job description template and concrete examples, you’re all prepared to take the leap.

But why halt at this point?

Plunge deeper with our job description generator. It’s your subsequent step to meticulously curated job listings or refining your resume to flawlessness.

Bear in mind:

Every cup of coffee is a part of the larger journey.

Let’s brew that future. Together.

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