Sensory Scientist

Stealth Talent Solutions; Santa Ana (CA); On-site; USD 99,000 - 121,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance up to $5K

Job summary

A prominent consumer product company is seeking a hands-on Sensory Scientist based in Santa Ana, California, to support sensory testing and product evaluation. The ideal candidate will have over 4 years of experience in sensory science, strong skills in data analysis and a background in sensory methodologies, particularly in taste and aroma evaluation. This full-time lab-based role aims to drive product quality through collaboration with R&D and quality teams, offering a competitive salary up to $110K and relocation assistance.

Qualifications

• 4+ years of experience in sensory science or sensory-focused roles.
• Hands-on experience working in a sensory program.
• Experience with panel testing and sensory methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute sensory studies.
• Lead and manage sensory panels.
• Analyze sensory data and translate findings into actionable insights.
• Develop and maintain sensory protocols and standards.

Skills

Sensory science expertise

Data analysis

Taste evaluation

Aroma assessment

Training skills

Education

Degree in Sensory Science or Food Science

Job description

Compensation: Up to $110K base + relocation assistance

About the Role

Seeking a hands-on Sensory Scientist to support and execute sensory testing for a consumer product company. This role is focused on taste, aroma, and product evaluation, working closely with cross-functional teams to drive product quality and consistency.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute sensory studies (discrimination, descriptive, and consumer testing)
• Lead and manage sensory panels (trained and untrained)
• Analyze sensory data and translate findings into actionable insights
• Develop and maintain sensory protocols, standards, and SOPs
• Partner with R&D, Quality, and Product teams to support product development and consistency
• Train internal teams on sensory standards and testing methodologies

Requirements

• 4+ years of experience in sensory science or sensory-focused roles
• Hands‑on experience working in a sensory program
• Experience with:
• Panel testing and sensory methodologies
• Taste, aroma, and texture evaluation
• Ability to analyze sensory data and communicate insights clearly
• Comfortable working full‑time in a lab environment

Preferred

• Degree in Sensory Science, Food Science (sensory-focused), or related field
• Experience in food, beverage, supplements, or flavor companies
• Background from strong sensory programs (e.g., UC Davis, Kansas State)

Interview Process

• Multi-stage interview process
• Travel covered for non-local candidates
• On-site role (5 days/week in lab)
• Relocation assistance available (~$5K)
• High priority role with active hiring process