Sensory Panel Testing Lead & Insights

Nestlé; Solon (OH); On-site; USD 50,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401k with company match

Healthcare coverage

Competitive total rewards package

Job summary

Nestlé USA in Solon, Ohio seeks a Sensory Associate Specialist to lead descriptive sensory studies and manage trained panelists, applying strong sensory science to generate actionable business insights. You will design references, plan panel sessions, perform basic statistics, and translate findings into recommendations while supporting continuous improvement of sensory methods and standards.

The role requires a BS in Food Science, experience with descriptive panels, and proficiency in MS Office

Qualifications

• BS or BA in Food Science or related field.
• Technical training in QDA analysis.
• Experience in quantitative descriptive panel training and moderation is a plus.
• Strong computer skills: MS-Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint and Outlook). Sensory data collection and statistical software (e.g. SIMS 2000, XLSTAT, Eye Question, FIZZ, SAS) is a plus.
• Experience with statistical analysis and reporting
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Strong organizational skills
• Able to work well in a team environment
• Flexible work hours, as required by the business

Responsibilities

• Manage trained sensory panelists and lead sensory studies.
• Onboard and train descriptive sensory panels.
• Design sensory references and training materials to support descriptive panel development and calibration activities.
• Manage sensory reference database required for panel training and testing sessions.
• Effectively plan and execute sensory training and calibration sessions
• Monitor panel performance and implement appropriate actions to maintain high-quality sensory data following sensory science principles.
• Support maintenance and documentation of sensory panel resource utilization records in collaboration with external agencies.
• Plan, schedule, and run assigned panel sessions.
• Manage samples and sensory references for panel calibration and data collection.
• Collaborate with technicians to ensure accurate sample preparation and serving according to study requirements.
• Develop and maintain tasting procedures and study documentation in collaboration with Sensory & Product Experience Specialists.
• Create test questionnaires and ensure accurate study setup in sensory software.
• Manage harmonized sensory glossaries and method of preparation protocols globally.
• Manage sensory methodology, data analysis, and reporting of shelf-life studies.
• Prepare and present clear and concise reports to communicate study findings.
• Perform univariate statistical analysis and translate technical findings into clear and concise reports with actionable business insights and recommendations.

Skills

Sensory data analysis

Statistical analysis

Teamwork

Written & verbal communication

MS Office

Adaptability

Education

BS/BA in Food Science

QDA analysis training

Tools

SIMS 2000

XLSTAT

EyeQuestion

FIZZ

SAS

Job description

Nestlé USA in Solon, Ohio seeks a Sensory Associate Specialist to lead descriptive sensory studies and manage trained panelists, applying strong sensory science to generate actionable business insights. You will design references, plan panel sessions, perform basic statistics, and translate findings into recommendations while supporting continuous improvement of sensory methods and standards.

The role requires a BS in Food Science, experience with descriptive panels, and proficiency in MS Office