Tea Taster / Grader Career in South Africa
Explore the official OFO occupation, common tasks, specialisations and approved South African qualification pathways.
OFO Code2021-681503
Trade occupationNo
Green occupationNo
Related qualifications0
Occupation overview
Inspects, tests, sorts, samples, or weighs raw or processed tea.
What does a Tea Taster / Grader do?
A Tea Taster / Grader checks the quality and consistency of raw or processed tea. The work involves inspecting tea, taking samples, testing and sorting it, and weighing it to support accurate grading and handling decisions.
How to become a Tea Taster / Grader in South Africa
- Learn about tea inspection, sampling, sorting, testing and weighing through practical workplace exposure or relevant training.
- Develop the ability to assess tea consistently and record observations accurately.
- Seek opportunities in tea processing, quality checking or related production environments where these tasks are performed.
- Confirm current training, provider and workplace requirements with relevant employers or accredited training organisations.
Edupstairs Preparation Guidance
There may be no single universal qualification pathway for this occupation. Practical experience, careful observation and consistent application of testing, sorting, sampling and weighing procedures can help prepare you. Check the expectations of tea-processing employers before applying.
Useful school subjects
- Mathematics
- Life Sciences
- English
Skills that may help
- Attention to detail
- Sensory observation
- Accurate sampling
- Sorting and classification
- Accurate weighing
- Consistency
- Quality awareness
- Careful record-keeping