Sensory Research Associate I — Descriptive Panels

IFF; Union Beach (NJ); On-site; USD 53,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Mileage reimbursement between South Br

Job summary

IFF in New Jersey is seeking a sensory and consumer research professional to lead descriptive sensory panels and manage data from multiple projects. This on-site role requires collaboration with C&D teams, PX Researchers, and external vendors, with travel between South Brunswick and Union Beach (1 day/week).

You will organize panel recruitment, ensure quality, analyze data, and maintain study documentation while mentoring a Panel Assistant and driving continuous improvement in sensory workflows.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Biology, Psychology, or another related scientific discipline.
• 1–3 years of experience in a laboratory environment; sensory laboratory experience is highly preferred.
• Knowledge of sensory evaluation methodologies and sensory research principles.
• Experience working with sensory data collection platforms such as EyeQuestion, Compusense, or similar tools is an advantage.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel and Word.
• Ability to work independently and manage assigned responsibilities with limited supervision.
• Strong organizational and project management skills with attention to detail and data quality.
• Effective interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to recruit, coach, and engage sensory panelists.
• Ability to travel between South Brunswick and Union Beach as business needs require (1 day per week)

Responsibilities

• Lead descriptive sensory panels and consumer studies, including recruitment and performance reviews.
• Plan, organize, and oversee sensory panel activities across multiple projects.
• Coordinate with C&D and PX teams to align testing objectives and provide project feedback.
• Verify product readiness and testing protocols; manage sample delivery and conditions.
• Analyze sensory data, generate reports, and maintain study documentation.
• Coordinate with external vendors and internal stakeholders for consumer research studies.
• Maintain sensory databases and panel performance records; contribute to SOPs.
• Coach and coordinate the Panel Assistant and promote knowledge sharing across the organization.

Skills

Sensory analysis

Panel leadership

Data management

MS Excel

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Food Science or related

Tools

EyeQuestion

Compusense

Job description

IFF in New Jersey is seeking a sensory and consumer research professional to lead descriptive sensory panels and manage data from multiple projects. This on-site role requires collaboration with C&D teams, PX Researchers, and external vendors, with travel between South Brunswick and Union Beach (1 day/week).

You will organize panel recruitment, ensure quality, analyze data, and maintain study documentation while mentoring a Panel Assistant and driving continuous improvement in sensory workflows.