Sensory Panel Lead: Train Panellists & Drive Insights

SAM Sensory and Marketing International; Reading; Hybrid; GBP 28,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

SAM Sensory and Marketing International seeks a dedicated Sensory Panel Leader to coordinate, train and oversee sensory panels, ensuring accurate data collection for product evaluation. This role supports product development, quality assurance and consumer research with a strong emphasis on data integrity.

You will recruit and train panellists, lead daily sessions, monitor performance, maintain training records, and ensure ethical, unbiased testing environments while using Fizz Acquisition and

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in food science or a related discipline.
• 1–2 years of experience in a sensory or quality assurance environment.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills for coaching panellists and coordinating with teams.
• High attention to detail and data accuracy.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, detail-oriented environment.
• Experience with RedJade is a plus.
• Empathetic, patient, and clear communicator.
• Confident in giving feedback and facilitating group discussions.
• Analytical mindset with an interest in sensory science and human perception.
• Flexible and adaptable to changing priorities and project needs.

Responsibilities

• Recruit and train sensory panellists
• Lead daily panel sessions, ensuring protocols are followed and data is collected accurately
• Monitor and coach panellists to maintain consistency, reliability, and performance.
• Deliver refresher training to existing panellists
• Foster a positive, focused, and productive panel environment.
• Maintain up-to-date training records and proficiency tracking.
• Ensure correct sample preparation, presentation, and environmental controls.
• Operate sensory software and tools (Fizz Acquisition and EyeQuestion)
• Ensure accurate input and organization of sensory data.
• Maintain testing facilities, equipment, and cleanliness according to SOPs.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of sensory protocols and documentation.
• Ensure ethical and unbiased testing environments.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in food science or a related discipline

Tools

Fizz Acquisition

EyeQuestion

RedJade

Job description

SAM Sensory and Marketing International seeks a dedicated Sensory Panel Leader to coordinate, train and oversee sensory panels, ensuring accurate data collection for product evaluation. This role supports product development, quality assurance and consumer research with a strong emphasis on data integrity.

You will recruit and train panellists, lead daily sessions, monitor performance, maintain training records, and ensure ethical, unbiased testing environments while using Fizz Acquisition and