Consumer Services Specialist

Aequor; Chattanooga (TN); Hybrid; USD 36,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

Aequor in Chattanooga, TN seeks a Sensory and Consumer Science Specialist (Contract) to support product development through sensory and consumer evaluation activities. The role emphasizes hands-on testing, panel management, and data-driven insights to inform health and wellness portfolios.

The ideal candidate has 2+ years in sensory evaluation or consumer research, a BS in a related field, strong organizational skills, and experience coordinating panels.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of sensory evaluation or consumer research experience.
• BS in Food Science, Sensory Science, Consumer Science, Biology, Psychology, or related field.
• Experience managing sensory panels or consumer testing sessions.

Responsibilities

• Plan, coordinate, and execute sensory studies (descriptive, discrimination, and consumer tests).
• Prepare test materials, protocols, and evaluation environments.
• Ensure accurate data collection and adherence to study protocols.
• Recruit, schedule, and manage consumer and trained panels.
• Moderate sessions including product evaluations and focus groups.
• Translate findings into actionable insights for cross-functional teams.
• Collaborate with R&D, marketing, and quality to inform decisions.

Skills

Sensory evaluation

Panel management

Consumer research

Data analysis

Project coordination

Education

Bachelor's degree in Food Science or related

Tools

Excel

Job description

Title: Sensory and Consumer Science Specialist

Location: Chattanooga, TN 37409/Hybrid

Duration: 12 Months with possible extension

Shift: 1st Work Schedule: 9-5 EST M-F

Pay rate: $28/hr on w2 without benefits

Remarks: - Min 2 years of experience; BS with any Consumer research industry

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

Sensory & Consumer Testing Execution

• 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

Panel & Participant Management

• 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

Moderation & Facilitation

• Moderate consumer sessions, including product evaluations, focus groups, and co-creation workshops
• Lead innovative discussion sessions to gather actionable qualitative insights
• Create a comfortable environment that encourages honest and insightful participant feedback

Data Handling & Reporting

• 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

Cross-functional Collaboration

• 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
• Working knowledge of data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, basic statistical software)