Descriptive Sensory Panelist - Part-Time - Decatur, IL

ADM; Decatur (IL); On-site; USD 27,552 - 33,062; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

At-will employment

Background check required

Job summary

ADM in Decatur, IL is seeking a Descriptive Sensory Panelist for an on-site, part-time role. You will evaluate appearance, aroma, flavor, and texture of ADM ingredients and applications using the five senses, working with a small panel. Shift runs Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m.

to 12:00 p.m., with 9–12 hours weekly; pay is $20 per hour with overtime. Applicants should communicate findings clearly in writing and verbally, maintain neutral odor, and be prepared for on-site evaluations.

Qualifications

• Proficiency in using electronic devices such as computers, tablets, and smartphones.
• Ability to remain calm and focused during sensory evaluations.
• Screened for high sensory acuity during on‑site interview.

Responsibilities

• Taste and evaluate food and beverage products and determine flavor and texture.
• Work with 10–12 panelists, performing evaluations while sitting, and expectorate or spit ingredients into a sealed container.
• Maintain neutral body odor and refrain from scented products during work hours.
• Communicate findings clearly in writing and verbally.

Skills

Sensory evaluation

Attention to detail

Digital device proficiency

Job description

Descriptive Sensory Panelist – Decatur, IL

Part‑time, on‑site, hourly position.

Role Overview

This position evaluates the appearance, aroma, flavor, and texture of ADM ingredients, food applications, and industrial applications using the five basic senses: taste, smell, touch, sight, and hearing.

Responsibilities

• Taste and evaluate food and beverage products and determine flavor and texture.
• Work with 10–12 panelists, performing evaluations while sitting, and expectorate or spit ingredients into a sealed container.
• Maintain neutral body odor and refrain from scented products during work hours.
• Communicate findings clearly in writing and verbally.

Ingredients Assessed

• Sweeteners and alternative sweeteners
• Beverage alcohol
• Caffeinated beverages
• Eggs, dairy products, meats, poultry, seafood, fruits, vegetables, grains, beans, fibers, nuts, soybeans or soy products, chocolate/cocoa, cooking oils, food additives

Qualifications

• Proficiency in using electronic devices such as computers, tablets, and smartphones.
• Ability to remain calm and focused during sensory evaluations.
• Screened for high sensory acuity during on‑site interview.

Hours

Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.; total hours per week vary from 9–12 depending on project needs.

Benefits

• Base pay $20 per hour with overtime for qualifying hours.
• At‑will employment.
• Background check required.

EEO Statement

We welcome all qualified applicants and are committed to ensuring every qualified applicant receives consideration for employment regardless of race, color, ethnicity, disability, religion, national origin, language, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, sexual orientation, age, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.