Sensory Panel Leader

Eurofins; Nottingham; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 38,000; Full time

Job summary

SAM is seeking a skilled Panel Manager in the UK to recruit and train sensory panellists, lead daily sessions, and maintain protocol-driven data collection. You will monitor performance, provide refresher training, and support continuous improvement of sensory processes.

The role requires 1–2 years of sensory panel experience, strong interpersonal communication, and meticulous data handling in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in food science or related discipline.
• Minimum 1–2 years of experience running a sensory panel.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills for coaching panellists and coordinating with teams.
• High attention to detail and data accuracy.
• Desirable: experience with sensory software and basic statistical concepts (ANOVA, PCA).

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; monitor panel performance monthly.
• 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 (RedJade); 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.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Data accuracy

Communication skills

Feedback facilitation

Analytical mindset

Education

Bachelor's degree in food science or related discipline

1–2 years sensory panel experience

Tools

RedJade

ANOVA / PCA basics

Job description

Who we are

We are the leading international sensory and consumer research company specializing in food, beverages, cosmetics, personal care, and other consumer products. We have 19 proprietary state-of-the-art facilities across France, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, Spain, United Kingdom, Morocco, China and the USA, and cover more than 65 countries through our network of approved partners.

SAM provides tailor-made solutions, delivering actionable guidelines to make our clients’ brands and products memorable.

SAM is a great place to work.

Join SAM to work with the most competent, creative, and fun team in the industry and let your work, opinions and ideas contribute to the future of sensory and consumer research.

Become your most extraordinary self with support and development throughout your career.

Best in class

Join our very diverse team of sensory scientists, food technologists, statisticians, psychologists, sociologists, strategic thinkers, marketeers, field managers, technicians and other sensory and research experienced colleagues.

We’re proud to be part of the Eurofins Group

World-leader in Testing for Life. With about 61 000 employees, Eurofins is a global leader in testing services and over the last 20 years has been one of the fastest growing companies in the world, thanks to its innovation in technology and service.

Job Description

Panel Management:

• Recruit and train sensory panellistsLead daily panel sessions, ensuring protocols are followed and data is collected accuratelyMonitor and coach panellists to maintain consistency, reliability, and performance.
• Deliver refresher training to existing panellistsMonitor panel performance monthlyFoster 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 (RedJade)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.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in food science or a related disciplineMinimum 1–2 years of experience of running a sensory panel.
• 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.
• Desirable Traits: Experience with sensory software and basic statistical concepts (ANOVA, PCA, etc.) 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.