R&D Sensory Scientist/ Sensory Analyst

R&D Sensory Scientist / Sensory Analyst

Industry: Consumer Products Manufacturing
Function: Research & Development – Sensory Science
Employment Type: Full-Time
Location: Hybrid / On-site (role-dependent)
Compensation: $90,000 – $100,000 base + full benefits
Travel: Occasional
Relocation: Possible for ideal candidate

About the Opportunity:

We are seeking a Sensory Scientist / Sensory Analyst to support a core R&D function within a global consumer products organization. This role is responsible for designing, executing, and interpreting robust sensory testing programs that substantiate consumer-relevant product claims and inform formulation and product development decisions.

This position sits at the intersection of science, consumer insight, and innovation, partnering closely with R&D and Marketing teams to deliver high-quality sensory data that supports product performance, differentiation, and commercialization.

What You'll Do:

• Design, execute, analyze, and report sensory testing to support consumer-relevant product claims

• Collaborate with R&D and Marketing partners to define project objectives and appropriate sensory methodologies

• Administer sensory panel activities, including test material preparation, assessor recruitment, panel execution, and data collation

• Ensure timely delivery of accurate, well-documented sensory results aligned with project timelines

• Investigate and apply advanced sensory methods and statistical approaches to uncover insights and trends

• Interpret sensory, consumer, and technical data to support product recommendations and claims substantiation

• Participate in cross-functional project meetings to align sensory strategy with business needs

• Maintain strong organization, documentation, and communication throughout the testing lifecycle

What We're Looking For:

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Psychology, Food Science, Nutrition, Sensory Science, Chemistry, Market Research, or a related scientific discipline

• Coursework or training in sensory science, statistics, market research, or business

• Approximately 5 years of relevant professional experience, ideally with a focus on sensory testing

• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills

• Ability to partner effectively with cross-functional and external stakeholders

• Ability to read and interpret technical, sensory, and consumer research data

Preferred Qualifications

• Sensory science certification or formal training (e.g., university-based sensory or market research programs)

• Experience supporting consumer product claims substantiation

• Background in consumer goods, food, home care, personal care, or related industries

• Comfort working in fast-paced, collaborative R&D environments

What Success Looks Like:

• Sensory studies are executed accurately, efficiently, and on schedule

• Data and insights are clearly communicated and actionable

• Cross-functional partners trust and rely on sensory results for decision-making

• Product claims are supported by defensible, consumer-relevant evidence

• Sensory methodologies evolve to support innovation and continuous improvement

Why This Role:

• High-impact R&D role supporting well-known consumer products (client confidential)

• Opportunity to influence product development and claims strategy

• Exposure to advanced sensory methodologies and cross-functional collaboration

• Strong compensation, benefits, and long-term growth potential

If you are a detail-oriented sensory professional who enjoys blending science, data, and consumer insight to shape products people use every day, we encourage you to apply.

Equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other protected characteristics.