Sensory Trained Panelist

SAM is a fast-growing and global sensory and consumer research consultancy. Our mission is to allow consumers a voice in the development of outstanding food, beverage, pet, and health & beauty products so as to create high-quality and memorable experiences. We help our clients develop new product ideas, re-energize well-established products, assess product-concept fit or packaging effectiveness, understand competitive landscapes, and protect product quality from inception to the end of shelf life. SAM The National Food Lab is the division of SAM that provides these services for all USA-based clients, with our sensory science program based in Minneapolis, MN.

About the role

The Sensory Trained Panelist plays a critical role in supporting sensory research projects by ensuring attendance to training and panel sessions. Working directly with the Panel Leader and reporting to the Sensory Research Manager, this position focuses on operational excellence and adherence to protocols to deliver high-quality data for client projects. Workload will vary, requiring flexibility with working hours. Typical panel sessions are held between 10:00 AM–12:00 PM or 12:30–3:00 PM.

You will learn how to objectively assess product properties and become part of a trained Expert Sensory Panel. As a trained panelist, you will collaborate as part of a team, evaluate products objectively using computer software, follow test protocols, maintain confidentiality, and participate in ongoing training.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate products objectively, assessing appearance, aroma, flavor, texture, after-feel, or other attributes depending on the study, while avoiding personal preferences.
• Follow standardized testing protocols, including sample handling, evaluation order, timing, and scoring to ensure data consistency and scientific validity.
• Use sensory scales accurately, applying intensity scales, descriptive terms, and reference standards as trained to maintain calibration across sessions.
• Participate in training and calibration sessions to learn terminology, align with the panel, and maintain consistent performance.
• Provide detailed and reliable feedback, recording observations clearly and accurately using digital ballots or paper forms.
• Maintain confidentiality of all product information, prototypes, and client details.
• Follow hygiene and safety guidelines, including personal hygiene, sample handling, and safety protocols—especially when evaluating OTC or topical products.
• Arrive on time and prepare for sessions, avoiding strong fragrances or foods that may interfere with evaluation.
• Communicate with the panel leader about any issues (e.g., illness, sensory fatigue, allergies, or discomfort) that may affect performance.

Skills

• Strong sensory acuity: Ability to detect small differences in appearance, aroma, flavor, texture, or tactile attributes.
• Objective evaluation skills: Capacity to separate personal preferences from product assessment and provide unbiased feedback.
• Attention to detail: Ability to notice subtle differences and describe them accurately.
• Consistency and reliability: Ability to give stable, repeatable evaluations across sessions.
• Clear verbal and written communication: Comfortable using descriptive terminology and standardized sensory language.
• Ability to follow protocols: Comfortable working within structured procedures, timing, and testing conditions.

Requirements

• No conditions that impair taste, smell, or tactile perception (e.g., chronic sinus issues, active colds, or skin sensitivities depending on product type).
• Availability for scheduled sessions; consistent attendance and punctuality are essential for data quality.
• Comfort with repeated product evaluation in a controlled, repetitive format.
• Willingness to participate in training, including learning sensory terminology, scaling methods, and calibration exercises.
• Confidentiality and professionalism to maintain discretion regarding prototypes, client information, and internal processes.
• Basic computer literacy for using digital ballots or tablets for data entry.
• No food allergies or intolerances.
• No skin allergies or intolerances.
• Enjoyment of tasting a variety of foods, flavors, and ingredients, smelling fragrances, and testing skin creams, soaps, and other personal care products.
• Interest in a long-term role; this position is not suitable for students or those seeking short-term work (e.g., summer jobs).
• Strong interpersonal and team skills.

Pay

$16.50 per hour.