The Sensory Senior Scientist will be an integral part of the NAOU Technical Consumer Research team reporting to the Director of R&D Innovation Services.  

What You’ll Do For Us 

• Provide technical leadership through translating learning of sensory and consumer research to actionable insights and serve as subject matter expert on projects  

• Apply scientific knowledge to independently design, plan, and execute sensory & consumer research projects using established and innovative testing methods and processes 

• Explore and implement new research methodologies, continuously improve operational efficiency, and support innovation agenda  

• Accurately and consistently records experimental methods, materials, and results in sensory and consumer research database 

• Analyze data using Data Science and/or statistical principles, evaluate results, form conclusions, and implement process improvements/recommendations 

• Provide appropriate sensory training to internal panel and cross-functional associates to strengthen internal capabilities 

• Define sensory and consumer research objectives and strategy to support short- and long-term innovation initiatives 

• Lead benchmarking activities for key formats to spot competitive advantages and opportunities 

• Stay connected and up to date on new consumer science and sensory research techniques 

• Setup and improve program, research methodology and testing capabilities of sensory and consumer research   

• Support and advice in recruitment and maintenance of all trained sensory panels 

• Collaborate cross-functionally and manage multiple projects simultaneously  

• Be a consumer advocate on project teams   

Qualifications & Requirements 

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Food Science or equivalent with a concentration in sensory science, behavioral psychology, data analytics or applied statistics. Master's or PhD is a plus. 

• 10+ years of experience in CPG field, preferably in the Food and Beverage industry.  

• Proficient using Sensory and Statistical software, PowerPoint, Excel, Project, Word 

• Deep expertise in a broad range of sensory and consumer research techniques  

• Strong background in statistics and data science applied to sensory and consumer data  

• Solid communication skills including ability to write concise, informative reports and verbally present complex technical information to non-technical audiences. Ability to listen and identify project objectives and influence research plan to do the correct sensory and/or consumer studies at the right time thereby increasing the success rate. 

• Strong planning and organizational skills, including knowledge of project management principles. Ability to apply tools and techniques to develop/plan, manage or execute multiple projects/work plans and ensure successful completion (e.g., on time, on budget).  

• Self-motivated with ability to effectively focus and motivate resources 

• Able to build good relationships with multi-cultural colleagues and from multiple functions 

• Be comfortable with ambiguity and fast-moving timelines    

• Experience using Design Thinking and Agile methodologies is a plus 

What We Can Do For You  

• Purpose Driven: Purpose driven approach that empowers our people to protect the environment and communities we serve while delivering safe & quality products.  

• Global Connections: Allows you to develop, enhance and maintain global connections that allow us to move faster and learn from others.  

• Community of Belonging: We’re an organization that believes our ability to continually grow and build the right atmosphere where people feel safe and empowered, lets you bring your best self to work.   

Skills:

Leadership; Product Development; Research Designs; Project Management; Food Sciences; Research Techniques; Food Technology; Taking Initiative; Communication; Consumer Research; Laboratory Testing; Process Improvement Plans; Data Collections; Sensory Testing; Continuous Improvement (CI); Cross-Functional Teamwork