Sensory Specialist

The HEINEKEN Company; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 500 000 - 700 000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent beverage company located in Stellenbosch is seeking an experienced professional to execute sensory projects utilizing advanced methodologies. The ideal candidate will have an MSc or PhD in Food Science, alongside extensive experience in sensory science within the food and beverages sector. Key responsibilities include managing sensory lab activities, delivering reliable sensory data, and collaborating with stakeholders to uphold sensory standards. This permanent role offers a unique opportunity to influence product quality and excellence.

Qualifications

• Minimum MSc Degree, preferably PhD Degree in relevant field.
• 3-4 Year Degree with minimum of 2-3 years’ experience in sensory science.
• Understanding of data analysis and sensory best practice principles.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate sensory lab activities for reproducible results.
• Execute sensory projects based on project requirements.
• Consolidate sensory data for statistical analysis.

Skills

Data analysis understanding

Proficient in MS Office

Excellent communication skills

Attention to detail

Education

MSc Degree or PhD in Food Science

3-4 Year Degree in Food Science with experience

Tools

Sensory/statistical software packages

Job description

We Go Places! How about you?

Immediate Superior: Lead Sensory
Location: Stellenbosch
Function: Supply Chain
Sub Function: Intrinsics
Type of Contract: Permanent
Reference Number: 149110
Closing Date: 29/12/2025

Purpose of the role

Execute sensory projects through cutting edge sensory methodologies and best practices to unlock product insight within relevant market and competitor landscape and support intrinsic product excellence for the full Heineken Beverages product portfolio.

Key responsibilities

• Co-ordinate all sensory lab activities by applying world class sensory principles to achieve reliable, reproducible results for decision making.
• Schedule and execute sensory projects based on the understanding and requirements of the project/brief
• Consolidate sensory data obtained from sensory panel evaluations, into an optimised format for basic and advanced statistical analysis to support decision making
• Manage the sensory laboratory activities optimally to support intrinsic projects
• Recruit, screen and manage trained, expert sensory panels to comply to sensory standards
• Ensure the house-keeping duties within the sensory laboratory is executed in line with sensory standards
• Execute the sensory tests based on test designs to generate reliable and reproducible sensory data
• Perform top-line sensory data analysis for early indication of impact on liquid innovation focus areas
• Monitor sensory panel performance and address training needs in agreement with internal standards and sensory best practices
• Manage reference standards and raw material requirements to maintain Reference Library
• Build effective relationships with external and internal stakeholders
• Liaise with ingredient suppliers during development of appropriate reference standards for panel training
• Align with stakeholders on sensory panel test execution relevant to brief requirements and sensory research approach
• Motivate and Coordinate internal Technical tasters to assist with ad hoc sensory tests when required
• Continuously develop own expertise in sensory to stay relevant and up to date with best practices
• Review and present new sensory research articles and relevant impact on Heineken Beverages sensory operating model
• Drive own development to ensure specialist knowledge/skills remain world class
• Consistently display the Heineken Beverages values and lead self effectively
• Follow Heineken Beverages policies and procedures and identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
• Apply sensory best practices and advanced methodologies to keep Heineken Beverages at the fore front of sensory science
• Execution of relevant test design and panel facilitation to provide sensory support to all stakeholders (Intrinsic R&D, New Product Development, Category Leads for Operational excellence)
• Develop and Maintain Reference toolkits for all relevant Heineken Beverages product categories
• Provide support to Sensory Excellence Capability for new, relevant, advanced methodologies
• Participate and contribute to intrinsic innovation, renovation and research initiatives when required

Job requirements: Qualification and Experience

• Minimum MSc Degree, preferably PhD Degree in Food Science, Consumer Science, Wine Science or other relevant field OR
• 3-4 Year Degree in Food Science, Consumer Science, or equivalent technical area with minimum of 2-3 years’ experience in sensory science applied in food & beverages
• Minimum of 2-3 years’ experience in sensory science applied to food & beverages.
• Understanding of data analysis and sensory best practice principles
• Proficient in MS Office and relevant sensory/statistical software packages
• An analytical mind with a strategic ability and attention to detail.
• Driven to deliver results.
• Excellent communication and people skills

The Company’s approved Employment Equity Plan and Targets will be considered as part of the recruitment process. As an Equal Opportunities employer, we actively encourage and welcome people with various disabilities to apply. Heineken Beverages (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd) is committed to an organisational culture that recognises, appreciates and values inclusion and diversity. You must be fully eligible to live and work in South Africa to apply.