Associate Sensory Scientist

About the role

The Associate Sensory Scientist is a functional role supporting and maintaining the Lactalis Passion for Taste program under the guidance of the Associate Sensory Manager. This position is responsible for assisting the execution of the sensory expert panels, implementation of trained factory panels, and support the evaluation of business directed R&D sensory panels.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate the Sensory Experts Panels on a weekly basis: prepare surveys and samples, set up room for tasting sessions and prepare technical reports using appropriate statistical methods using best practices.
• Support training for various dairy category products with the Sensory Expert Panels and propose action plans to improve panel qualification of all sensory attributes.
• Evaluate the Sensory Expert Panel performance periodically and assist the recruitment of new panelists as needed, following Lactalis Global guidelines.
• Prepare monthly technical report of pillar product performance to be submitted to Lactalis Global QA and internal Quality, Marketing, and R&D cross-teams.
• Maintain an updated database of the various tests of products as well as selection, training and performance evaluation of the Sensory Expert Panels, plus all other relevant information.
• Procure commercially available dairy products on a weekly basis for use by Sensory Expert Panels, functionality and application testing, and other tastings.
• Provide panel attendance to account payable team for panelist compensation on a weekly basis and submit expense reports of sample purchase and other materials.
• Provide support to manufacturing plants to implement and maintain the Factory Sensory Panels, including training of Sensory Coordinators, creation of SOPs and the monthly report.
• Alert plant and corporate quality teams regarding negative trends in product performance results by both expert and factory trained panels.
• Aid the Marketing Department during consumer test (60/40, Preference Mapping, etc.) and provide support to culinary manager with product functionality evaluations and/or development of new recipes as needed.
• Support the R&D and Marketing teams by providing technical guidance and sensory evaluation for special projects as needed.
• Travel to manufacturing plants and headquarters office on a regular basis to provide support to Factory Sensory Panels and meet with Corporate Quality Director.
• Provide technical assistance as needed during investigation related to quality issues or other special projects.
• Travel and / or extended or off work hours may be required.

Requirements

• High School diploma or equivalent required; Associate degree or higher preferred; or equivalent experience to include a minimum of five (5) years job related experience.
• Ideal candidate must have Bachelor’s Degree in Food Science or related field with education and experience in Sensory Evaluation, Dairy Technology and Statistics.
• Strong attention to detail and excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and in teams, with minimal direct supervision.
• Ability to prioritize and meet deadlines within specified time constraints.
• Ability to operate in a transversal environment, across multiple departments.
• Ability to adapt in a changing work environment.
• Ability to occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.