Innovation Scientist

Agricultural Ingredients N. America; New Jersey; On-site; USD 75,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Benefits program

Job summary

Sensient Technologies Corporation is seeking an Innovation Scientist I to advance flavor and taste technologies in a hands-on lab environment. You will support senior scientists and flavorists in preparing formulas, running trials, analyzing data, and documenting results.

This onsite role focuses on flavor development for food and beverage products, with opportunities to work with cutting-edge lab equipment, manage materials, and contribute to global projects.

Qualifications

• Degree in food science or related field with experience in flavors/food ingredient technologies
• Solid understanding of flavor components and related technologies
• Strong organizational skills with ability to manage multiple projects
• Self-motivation and teamwork with collaborative mindset
• Creativity and problem-solving with clear communication
• Knowledge of sensory testing methods and lab safety practices
• Comfort using data management and project-tracking tools

Responsibilities

• Prepare application formulas and compounding flavor samples with precision
• Maintain and organize the flavor library
• Support sensory screenings through sample prep and testing
• Manage raw material inventory and ensure timely reordering
• Record, analyze test results and calibrate equipment as needed
• Run trials, analyze data, and communicate progress to the team
• Maintain project documentation including objectives, progress reports, formulations, and data sheets

Skills

Flavor development

Data analysis

Lab precision

Project coordination

Sensory testing

Communication

Regulatory compliance

Education

Food science degree or related field

Tools

Laboratory equipment

Job description

Innovation Scientist I

If you are passionate about food science and enjoy working hands-on with flavors and product development, this role could be an exciting opportunity to grow your skills and contribute to creating innovative taste experiences. In this position, you will support a dynamic team focused on developing new flavor and taste technologies. Your work will involve collaboration in a laboratory environment where practical experimentation and attention to detail are essential. This role is fully onsite, requiring consistent presence in the lab to operate equipment, run trials, and manage materials.

What you’ll do

• Assist senior scientists and flavorists by preparing application formulas and compounding flavor samples with precision
• Maintain and organize the flavor library
• Support sensory screenings through sample prep and testing
• Manage raw material inventory, assist in approval processes, and ensure materials are reordered on time
• Observe, record, and analyze test results while calibrating and modifying equipment as needed
• Support project development by running trials, analyzing data, and communicating progress clearly to the team
• Maintain accurate project documentation including objectives, progress reports, technical formulations, and product data sheets

What you’ll bring

• A degree in food science or a related field, along with relevant experience working with flavors or food ingredient technologies
• Solid understanding of flavor components, food science principles, and related technologies
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Self-motivation, initiative, and a team-oriented mindset with an openness to collaboration
• Creativity and a problem-solving approach combined with excellent communication skills
• Knowledge of sensory testing methods, regulatory processes, and laboratory safety practices
• Comfort using computer tools for data management and project tracking

What you’ll get

• A hands-on role in a fast-paced, innovative environment focused on food and beverage product development
• Opportunities to work closely with experienced scientists, engineers, and flavorists
• Exposure to cutting-edge lab equipment and flavor technologies
• A supportive team environment that encourages learning, creativity, and professional growth
• The chance to contribute to projects with global impact and collaborate cross-functionally
• A safe and professional workplace that values accuracy, quality, and innovation
• Clear direction and regular feedback to help you develop your skills and advance your career

About Sensient

Sensient Technologies Corporationis a leading global manufacturer and marketer of colors, flavors, and extracts. Sensient employs advanced technologies at facilities around the world to develop specialty food and beverage systems, cosmetic and pharmaceutical systems, specialty colors, and other specialty and fine chemicals. The Company's customers include major international manufacturers representing most of the world's best-known brands.

About Sensient Flavors:

Sensient Flavors offers innovative, global taste solutions and specialized flavor delivery systems that help bring life to your food and beverage products. Our leading-edge technologies reflect our core philosophies to be dynamic and innovative and to add value to your applications.

The salary range for this position is $75,000 - $90,000. Pay within the range is based on several factors, which may include, but are not limited to, education, work experience, specialized training, and labor market conditions.

• In addition to salary, Sensient is proud to offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits program to support the holistic well-being of our employees and their families.

Sensient is an Equal Opportunity Employer, headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA.