Sensory & Product Development Scientist Level I

Job Summary

This position is the primary Sensory Scientist for HP Hood and entails up to 20% of Product Development work as capacity allows. The Sensory Scientist I facilitates the development of test recommendations and timelines as well as execution of sensory and consumer testing. This position collaborates heavily with cross-functional teams and ensures data is analyzed correctly and insights are drawn and communicated to the teams.

Core Responsibilities

• Act as Subject Matter Expert for all Sensory and Consumer Research needs within Hood.
• Execute Sensory and Product Development projects focused on new products, processes, ingredients and continuous improvement.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with external fielding agencies and research partners.
• Identify methodology, plan, execute, and analyze sensory and consumer tests for all project types.
• Generate and present results decks with clear learnings, insights and recommendations to facilitate decision making in the product development process.
• Develop and maintain strong cross-functional relationships to drive learning and insights when bringing new or renovated products to market.
• Maintain existing products through new suppliers, alternate ingredients, and process improvement.
• Apply best practices in sensory and consumer testing
• Adhere to R&D SOPs and checklists.
• Adhere to R&D Operating Principles; Commitment to Technical Expertise & Knowledge: Clear, Concise, Continuous Communication; Technical Leadership & Project Management and collaboration between R&D and its Business Partners.
• Develop new products to meet consumer needs.

Functional And Technical Skills & Knowledge

• Foundational technical knowledge of food science, sensory science, and data analysis.
• Understanding of and ability to apply sensory and consumer best practices and explain reasoning for each clearly.
• Guide teams to define clear objectives and create team alignment.
• Capacity and ability to manage several projects concurrently.
• Ability to use knowledge covering Product Development, statistical analysis, DOE, and SPC.
• Draft Ingredient Spec, Formulas, Semi Finished Good Specifications
• Develop new products to meet consumer needs.

Qualifications & Experience

• BS + 5 years industry experience OR MS/PhD + 0-3 years industry experience
• Masters/Bachelor of Science/Engineering degree in relevant scientific field of study
• Certifications are highly beneficial

Pay Range

The pay range for this position is $95,000 - $105,000 USD. Exact compensation may vary based on skills, experience and location.

Benefits

• Competitive benefits package that includes health, dental, vision, wellness programs, employee discounts, retirement plans, tuition reimbursement, ongoing development, advancement opportunities and more.