Consumer Science Specialist

Merck & Co.; Chattanooga (TN); On-site; USD 50,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Merck & Co. in Chattanooga, TN is seeking a Consumer Science Specialist (Contract) to lead sensory and consumer evaluation activities within our product development center.

You will plan studies, prepare materials, manage panels, and translate insights into actionable recommendations for cross‑functional teams. The ideal candidate has hands-on sensory science experience, strong organizational skills, and the ability to manage multiple studies in a fast-paced development environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field and 2+ years in sensory evaluation, consumer research, or product testing.
• Experience managing sensory panels or consumer testing sessions.
• Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple studies simultaneously.

Responsibilities

• Plan, coordinate, and execute sensory evaluation studies (descriptive, discrimination, and consumer tests).
• Prepare test materials, protocols, and evaluation environments within a development center setting.
• Ensure accurate data collection, documentation, and adherence to study protocols.
• Support product benchmarking, claims substantiation, and reformulation efforts.
• Recruit, schedule, and manage consumer and trained sensory panels.
• Maintain panel engagement and ensure data quality through proper training and oversight.
• Troubleshoot panel logistics and ensure smooth execution of evaluation sessions.
• Moderate consumer sessions, including product evaluations, focus groups, and co‑creation workshops (good to have).
• Lead innovative discussion sessions to gather actionable qualitative insights.
• Create a comfortable environment that encourages honest and insightful participant feedback.
• Compile, analyze, and summarize sensory and consumer data.
• Translate findings into clear, actionable insights for cross‑functional teams (R&D, marketing, quality).
• Support development of reports, presentations, and recommendations for stakeholders.
• Partner closely with R&D, product development, and marketing teams.
• Contribute to innovation pipelines by integrating consumer‑driven insights.
• Ensure alignment with project timelines and business objectives.

Skills

Sensory evaluation

Panel management

Consumer research moderation

Data interpretation

Cross-functional collaboration

Communication & organization

Education

Bachelor's degree in Food Science/Sensory Science/Consumer Science/related field

Tools

Excel

Statistical software

Job description

Position Overview

We are seeking a Consumer Science Specialist (Contract) to join our product development center in Chattanooga, TN. This role sits within the Consumer Science function, supporting innovation and product development through sensory and consumer evaluation activities. The ideal candidate has hands‑on experience in sensory science, panel management, and consumer research execution. You will play a key role in ensuring that consumer insights and sensory data are integrated into product decisions across health and wellness portfolios.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, coordinate, and execute sensory evaluation studies (descriptive, discrimination, and consumer tests)
• Prepare test materials, protocols, and evaluation environments within a development center setting
• Ensure accurate data collection, documentation, and adherence to study protocols
• Support product benchmarking, claims substantiation, and reformulation efforts
• Recruit, schedule, and manage consumer and trained sensory panels
• Maintain panel engagement and ensure data quality through proper training and oversight
• Troubleshoot panel logistics and ensure smooth execution of evaluation sessions
• Moderate consumer sessions, including product evaluations, focus groups, and co‑creation workshops (good to have)
• Lead innovative discussion sessions to gather actionable qualitative insights
• Create a comfortable environment that encourages honest and insightful participant feedback
• Compile, analyze, and summarize sensory and consumer data
• Translate findings into clear, actionable insights for cross‑functional teams (R&D, marketing, quality)
• Support development of reports, presentations, and recommendations for stakeholders
• Partner closely with R&D, product development, and marketing teams
• Contribute to innovation pipelines by integrating consumer‑driven insights
• Ensure alignment with project timelines and business objectives

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Sensory Science, Consumer Science, Biology, Psychology, or related field 2+ years of experience in sensory evaluation, consumer research, or product testing
• Familiar with managing sensory panels or consumer testing sessions
• Highly organized with attention to detail and ability to manage multiple studies simultaneously

Preferred

• Experience in consumer health, personal care, or OTC products
• Familiarity with sensory methodologies (e.g., hedonic testing, descriptive analysis, triangle tests)
• Experience working in a lab or development center environment
• Facilitation/moderation skills
• Working knowledge of data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, basic statistical software)

Key Skills

• Sensory evaluation & test design
• Panel management and recruitment
• Consumer research moderation
• Data interpretation and storytelling
• Cross‑functional collaboration
• Strong communication and organizational skills

Essential Workplace Skill

• Can‑do attitude with a proactive, solution‑oriented mindset
• Self‑motivated and able to work independently while managing multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment
• Strong presentation and storytelling skills, with the ability to communicate insights clearly and influence stakeholders
• Excellent interpersonal and facilitation skills, with confidence moderating discussions and engaging diverse participants
• High level of ownership and accountability, with attention to detail and commitment to quality execution
• Adaptability and flexibility in a dynamic development center environment
• Collaborative team player with the ability to build strong cross‑functional relationships
• Curious mindset with a passion for understanding consumer behavior and product experience

Work Environment

Onsite role based in a development center in Chattanooga, TN

Hands‑on, fast‑paced environment supporting product innovation and evaluation

Collaborative team within a leading consumer health organization

Why Join

This is an opportunity to contribute directly to new product development and innovation for a major consumer health company, influencing products that impact millions of consumers. We believe in the power of self‑care and the role it can play in creating a healthier society and a healthier planet.

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