Research And Development Manager

Location: Tennessee (Onsite)

About the role

A leading food manufacturer is seeking a Sensory Manager to lead the company's sensory evaluation program, supporting product quality, innovation, and consumer insights by partnering across Quality, R&D, Marketing, Manufacturing, and Operations to develop world-class sensory capabilities and data-driven decision making.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the company's sensory program, including sensory panels, laboratory operations, budgets, facilities, and team development.
• Design and implement sensory evaluation methodologies that support quality assurance, product development, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Develop, maintain, and enhance sensory standards for existing products while ensuring consistent testing methods and data interpretation.
• Train and support internal sensory panels across multiple manufacturing locations while partnering with external sensory resources as needed.
• Collaborate with R&D and Marketing to support innovation projects, consumer research, and new product development initiatives.
• Analyze sensory and consumer data, translating results into actionable recommendations that support business decisions.
• Lead cross-functional sensory initiatives while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and scientific excellence.

Requirements

• 5+ years of sensory science experience within consumer packaged goods, food and beverage manufacturing.
• Strong expertise in sensory evaluation methods, experimental design, statistical analysis, and consumer research.
• Experience supporting product quality, innovation, and new product development through sensory science.
• Proven leadership experience managing sensory programs, laboratories, panels, and technical staff.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to present technical findings to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Sensory Science, or related discipline.

Benefits

• $130,000 base salary
• Generous bonus target
• Excellent healthcare benefits
• Pension and 401k match
• PTO and holiday pay
• Relocation assistance