Sensory & Analytical Manager – Product Design (Pet Nutrition)

FutureJobHub LLC; Topeka (KS); On-site; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Unknown company is seeking a Sensory & Analytical Manager to lead sensory and analytical research supporting future pet nutrition. You will guide a team of scientists and translate sensory data, consumer insights, and analytical results into actionable recommendations for product innovation and premium development.

The role requires a PhD in Sensory Science or related field, 4+ years of industry experience, and strong leadership and communication skills to collaborate across Product Development,

Qualifications

• PhD in Sensory Science, Food Science, or a related discipline.
• 4+ years of food or pet food industry experience.
• Direct experience supervising and developing scientific teams.
• Strong expertise in human sensory study design and advanced analytical food testing methods.
• Understanding of regulatory, product safety, and quality standards.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of innovative sensory and analytical testing methodologies.
• Establish KPIs connecting laboratory data with pet preference and consumer satisfaction.
• Manage Sensory and Product Design Analytical laboratories and lead a team of scientists.
• Direct advanced data visualization, analytical modeling, and research reporting.
• Translate complex scientific data into actionable insights for technical and executive stakeholders.
• Collaborate with Product Development, Quality, Regulatory, Procurement, Colony Management, and external partners.
• Evaluate ingredients, processing parameters, and product aesthetics to optimize product performance and consumer acceptance.
• Lead cross-functional research projects from innovation through commercial execution.

Skills

Sensory science leadership

Data analysis

Team management

Communication

Education

PhD in Sensory Science or Food Science

4+ years food/pet food industry experience

Job description

Sensory & Analytical Manager – Product Design

Location: Topeka, KS 66603

Job Type: Full-Time

About the Role

We are seeking a Sensory & Analytical Manager to lead innovative sensory and analytical research supporting the future of pet nutrition. This role will lead a team of scientists and translate sensory, analytical, and consumer insights into actionable recommendations that drive product innovation and premium product development.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of innovative sensory and analytical testing methodologies.
• Establish KPIs connecting laboratory data with pet preference and consumer satisfaction.
• Manage Sensory and Product Design Analytical laboratories and lead, mentor, and develop a team of scientists.
• Direct advanced data visualization, analytical modeling, and research reporting.
• Translate complex scientific data into actionable insights for technical and executive stakeholders.
• Collaborate with Product Development, Quality, Regulatory, Procurement, Colony Management, and external partners.
• Evaluate ingredients, processing parameters, and product aesthetics to optimize product performance and consumer acceptance.
• Lead cross-functional research projects from innovation through commercial execution.

Required Qualifications

• PhD in Sensory Science, Food Science, or a related discipline.
• 4+ years of food or pet food industry experience.
• Direct experience supervising and developing scientific teams.
• Strong expertise in human sensory study design, laboratory experimental design, and advanced analytical food testing methods.
• Understanding of regulatory, product safety, and quality standards applicable to food or companion animal products.
• Strong leadership, analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience leading innovation and cross-functional scientific projects.
• Experience in Product Design and technological innovation.
• Experience managing laboratory operations and translating research into commercial products.Strong adaptability, execution, collaboration, and problem-solving capabilities.

Ideal Candidate

We are particularly interested in PhD-level Sensory Scientists with a strong background in Food Science and sensory research. Prior pet food experience is a plus but not required. Candidates with human food industry experience who can apply sensory methodologies, consumer insights, and product innovation principles to pet nutrition are encouraged to apply.