Sensory Specialist

HEINEKEN Beverages; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 400 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading beverage company in Stellenbosch is seeking a Sensory Scientist to coordinate sensory lab activities and ensure reliable data for decision making. The ideal candidate will have an MSc or PhD in Food Science or a related field, alongside at least two years of experience in sensory science. Proficiency in data analysis and communication is essential, along with a commitment to uphold company standards and values in sensory practices. Apply if you are ready to contribute to innovation in the beverage industry.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in relevant field or 3-4 Year Degree with 2-3 years experience.
• Minimum 2 years experience in sensory science applied to food & beverages.
• Understanding of sensory best practice principles.

Responsibilities

• Co-ordinate sensory lab activities to ensure reliable results.
• Manage and execute sensory projects based on requirements.
• Analyze sensory data for informed decision-making.

Skills

Sensory analysis

Data analysis

MS Office proficiency

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Education

MSc or PhD in Food Science, Consumer Science, or relevant field

3-4 Year Degree in Food Science or equivalent with 2-3 years experience

Tools

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

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.