Sensory Scientist

Our client is a leading, family-owned company within the food manufacturing industry with over a century of dedication to producing the highest-quality dairy products to millions of households nationwide. They are seeking an experienced Sensory Scientist in the food and beverage industry to assist in the development of new innovative flavors.

Overview

The Sensory Scientist is responsible for sensory testing to support Research and Product Development. This position formulates research problems, determines appropriate methodologies, coordinates tests, analyzes and interprets data, and provides technical recommendations. The Sensory Scientist reports to the Product Manager and is part of the Technical Services team. This individual will also work directly with Research, Product Development, and Marketing.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate different food products and ingredients to understand their sensory properties and identify commercial opportunities

• Provide sensory support (product profiling, discrimination tests, and internal acceptance tests) to R&D and Marketing, working closely with a cross-functional team by providing technical leadership in sensory and consumer insights

• Analyze data using statistical tools with proficiency in up-to-date sensory and consumer evaluation techniques and relevant statistical analysis protocols using computer software, especially XLSTAT

• Effectively communicate sensory insights to internal and external customers as needed

• Organize consumer tests (CLT or IHUT) to generate data for research initiatives

• Assist operations to help determine the root-cause of quality-related sensory concerns

• Continually investigate the quantifiable dimensions of flavor and texture

• Research new sensory methodologies and equipment

• Perform other duties as needed

Education, Training, and Experience

• Ph.D. degree in food science, dairy science or a related discipline is preferred

• Strong knowledge of sensory and consumer research, food science, and consumer insights

• Minimum 2 years of relevant sensory experience with dairy products. 5+ years of work experience preferred.

Knowledge and Skills

• Excellent communication skills (both written and verbal), presentation, organizational, and time management

• Proficient computer skills in Microsoft Office software (Excel and PowerPoint)

• Data analysis, experimental design, statistics, and statistical software (JMP, XLSTAT, etc)

• Ability and willingness to taste all types of food and beverage

• Ability to manage multiple projects with minimal supervision