Associate Specialist Sensory Panel Testing

Foods you love. Brands you trust. And a career that empowers you to grow.


At Nestlé USA, we’re all working towards the same goal – to delight and deliver for our consumers. With a rich portfolio of beloved brands, including DiGiorno, Toll House, and Coffee mate, in 97% of U.S. households, we have a unique opportunity – and responsibility – to be there for every moment in our consumers’ lives.

Joining Nestlé means becoming part of an inclusive workplace that inspires innovation, encourages strategic thinking and creativity, and celebrates your achievements. No matter where you work within the organization, you are empowered to challenge the status quo, embrace risk-taking, and pioneer new ideas. Our supportive and collaborative environment encourages bold ambitions and continuous learning so that everyone can grow and thrive.


This position is eligible for Visa Sponsorship.

JOB SUMMARY:

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.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

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.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS (Education, Experience, and Knowledge):

• 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

Salary: $50,157.90 to $80,379.00 per year

Bonus Eligibility: Yes

The pay range provided is a good faith estimate for the position at the time of posting. Final compensation may vary based on factors including but not limited to knowledge, skills and abilities as well as geographic location. It is not typical for an individual to be hired at top of range.

Nestlé offers performance-based incentives and a competitive total rewards package, which includes a 401k with company match, healthcare coverage and a broad range of other benefits. Incentives and/or benefit packages may vary depending on the position. Learn more at

It is our business imperative to remain a very inclusive workplace.


To our veterans and separated service members, you're at the forefront of our minds as we recruit top talent to join Nestlé. The skills you've gained while serving our country, such as flexibility, agility, and leadership, are much like the skills that will make you successful in this role. In addition, with our commitment to an inclusive work environment, we recognize the exceptional engagement and innovation displayed by individuals with disabilities. Nestlé seeks such skilled and qualified individuals to share our mission where you’ll join a cohort of others who have chosen to call Nestlé home.

The Nestlé Companies are equal employment opportunity employers. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Prior to the next step in the recruiting process, we welcome you to inform us confidentially if you may require any special accommodations in order to participate fully in our recruitment experience. Contact us at View email address on aiapply.co or please dial 711 and provide this number to the operator: View phone number on aiapply.co.

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Job Requisition: 420984