Sensory Taste Panelist

Job Responsibilities:

• Panelist will evaluate the taste and smell of food, beverage, and odorant samples by meticulously following oral and written instructions.
• Evaluations will be performed individually and in a group under the guidance of a panel leader.
• Evaluations will be performed using paper ballots, tablets, and laptops; whenever possible, assistive technology will be provided to panelists with disabilities.
• All safeguards of human subject research (e.g., informed consent) will be implemented.
• Panelist will contribute to group discussions by sharing their insights and listening to those of others.
• Samples will contain finished food and beverage products, product prototypes still in development, and simple dilutions (e.g., food ingredients dissolved in water); all sample ingredients will be disclosed to panelists in advance.
• Before being admitted to the panel, applicants will need to pass a series of sensory acuity screening tests. Panelists not admitted to the panel will be paid for their time.

Skills:

• Sensory evaluation, attention to detail, communication, critical thinking, teamwork, analytical skills, protocol adherence, objectivity, and computer proficiency.
• Candidate will receive training.
• Follow a structured tasting protocol precisely.
• Be punctual and consistently present to the onsite training and testing sessions.
• Possess good communication skills to contribute to group discussion and providing feedback
• No major food allergies or sensory impairments

Education/Experience:

• College education is preferred but not a strict requirement
• prefer retires over college grads age preference less than 65 yrs old