Sensory Technician

Job Description

Job Description

Sensation Research is a custom Sensory and Consumer research company. We specialize in Product Development guidance for foods, beverages, alcoholic beverages and spirits, pet care, OTC pharmaceuticals, skin care, personal care, household care, flavors and fragrances.  
We evaluate human perception of products using a full array of standardized and innovative qualitative & quantitative techniques including Descriptive Analysis, Discrimination Testing, Time Intensity and Consumer Testing.

Position Summary:
The Sensory Technician performs and documents routine tasks related to product preparation, reference, and serving using written instructions, standard sensory methods, and/or basic laboratory techniques, functions, and equipment. The position conducts specific procedures and tests within the laboratory requiring the use of applied knowledge and practical skills learned from on-the-job experience; modify or adapt techniques to fit special needs or problems; to calculate data from routine tests to final results and to evaluate such results for accuracy where expected findings are not precisely defined, but sufficient guidelines exist for reference; to assist with and occasionally perform specialized and non-routine tests and assays, and to maintain records of such work; to coordinate and plan assigned work with other technicians and scientists.

Primary Responsibilities:

Provide support to our laboratory department by performing and/or coordinating a variety of Laboratory processes. 

• Assists the Lab Coordinator with running the lab and prepping for panels
• Inventories samples for sensory and consumer testing
• Prepares and serves products according to the client’s instructions.
• Prepares sensory references and trays.
• Prints ballots from the G-drive.
• Sets up panel room for training and testing
• Works with Sensory Panel Moderators to ensure panel runs as planned.
• Procures reference and product materials as needed for tests.
• Performs routine lab and facility maintenance to keep the facility clean and orderly.
• Carries out assignments in a timely, diligent, and safe manner.
• Trains and supervises student interns in daily lab tasks.
• Assures adherence to safety regulations such as closed-toe shoes, hair nets, lab coats or aprons, hot mitts, lab goggles, etc.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Assures quality and support of quality processes for the Lab. 

Assures quality of results by assisting with establishment and maintenance of QA documents, plans, and ICPs.

• Documents QA data and reports to lead or management.
• Assures equipment is maintained in reliable working order and makes repairs or modifications within the capability of the Technician or requests repairs.

Processes/Methods 

• Identify and resolve process problems.
• Participate/lead in Lean Laboratory initiatives. 
• Assist in write-up, review, and provide proper documentation for processes or methods as experience allows.

Training
Attend internal and external training programs as assigned by management.

• On-the-job instruction under direct supervision of other technicians or scientists.
• Training other associates as experience and job needs dictate.

Requirements:

• High School diploma or equivalent required; undergraduate degree in a closely related science preferred (i.e., Food Science, Chemistry, Microbiology, Biology, etc.).
• Relevant academic coursework or 1 year of practical relevant experience in an analytical laboratory preferred.

Skills:

• Food Safety and Handling Skills
• Basic computer skills (Microsoft Office Applications: Outlook, Word, Excel, etc.)
• English Language Skills (Basic reading, writing, speaking, etc.)
• Professionalism
• Ability to perform trained tasks at an above base level efficiency pace.
• Contributes to a team environment and builds effective relationships.
• Collaborates with the team and provides productive feedback.
• Moderate learning agility with ability to pick up new skills in a timely manner.
• Can execute non-routine tasks with little supervision. 
• Emerging level of initiative, results focus, and follow-through.