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# Associate Specialist Sensory Panel Testing

- **Company:** Nestle
- **Location:** Solon, OH, United States
- **Salary:** $50,158.0 - $80,379.0
- **Contract:** Permanent contract
- **Skills:** Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Data Analysis, Microsoft Outlook, Databases, Microsoft Office, Microsoft PowerPoint, SAS (Software)
- **Published:** October 4, 2026
- **Apply:** https://dejobs.org/x/x/BDAB28791B904639BD80B8FB3E1EB5E7/job/

## About the Role

* BS or BA in Food Science or related field.
 * Technical training in QDA analysis.
 * Experience in quantitative descriptive panel training and moderation is a plus.
 * Strong computer skills: MS-Office (Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint and Outlook). Sensory data collection and statistical software (e.g. SIMS 2000, XLSTAT, Eye Question, FIZZ, SAS) is a plus.
 * Experience with statistical analysis and reporting
 * Strong written and oral communication skills
 * Strong organizational skills
 * Able to work well in a team environment
 * Flexible work hours, as required by the business

## Description

Lead and provide support for all sensory testing activities. Responsible for leading descriptive trained panel and end-to-end sensory tests applying strong sensory science principles. Translate data into sensory insights and actionable business recommendations., The Sensory Associate Specialist will be responsible for managing trained sensory panelists and leading sensory studies with support from Sensory & Product Experience Specialists and Technicians. This will include onboarding and managing sensory trained panels, monitoring panel performance, developing sensory glossaries, overseeing data collection, and completing quality checks on quantitative sensory data by applying sound statistical methods. This position is also responsible for basic statistical analyses and translation of sensory results into actionable business recommendations. Moreover, the Associate Sensory Specialist leads local sensory initiatives and supports the implementation of sensory standards.

Management and training of sensory panels

 * Support screening and recruitment of sensory panelists.
 * Onboard and train descriptive sensory panels.
 * Design sensory references and training materials to support descriptive panel development and calibration activities. Manage sensory reference database required for panel training and testing sessions.
 * Effectively plan and execute sensory training and calibration sessions
 * Monitor panel performance and implement appropriate actions to maintain high-quality sensory data following sensory science principles.
 * Support maintenance and documentation of sensory panel resource utilization records in collaboration with external agencies.

Planning and execution of sensory tests

 * Plan, schedule, and run assigned panel sessions.
 * Manage samples and sensory references for panel calibration and data collection.
 * Collaborate with technicians to ensure accurate sample preparation and serving according to study requirements.
 * Develop and maintain tasting procedures and study documentation in collaboration with Sensory & Product Experience Specialists.
 * Create test questionnaires and ensure accurate study setup in sensory software.
 * Manage harmonized sensory glossaries and method of preparation protocols globally.
 * Manage sensory methodology, data analysis, and reporting of shelf-life studies.
 * Prepare and present clear and concise reports to communicate study findings.
 * Perform univariate statistical analysis and translate technical findings into clear and concise reports with actionable business insights and recommendations.

Support Best Practices

 * Contribute to and lead sensory initiatives at local level.
 * Contribute to the continuous improvement of sensory methodologies, processes, and laboratory practices.
 * Participate in knowledge-sharing activities within the sensory function.
 * Support implementation of sensory standards, tools, and best practices.
 * Deliver sensory trainings for cross-functional audiences.