Sensory Scientist
Location: Northbrook, IL
Position Overview
Bell Flavors & Fragrances is seeking a Sensory Scientist to design and lead sensory and consumer research that supports product development, innovation, quality, and business decision-making. Reporting to the Manager of Sensory & Consumer Science, this position will apply scientific research methods and statistical analysis to generate actionable insights for internal teams and customers.
Key Responsibilities
- Design, execute, and manage sensory and consumer research studies for flavor and fragrance projects.
- Lead internal sensory panels, including study scheduling, study design, sample coordination, data analysis, reporting, and follow-up.
- Support the Descriptive Analysis program through panelist recruitment, training, lexicon development, data collection, and results interpretation.
- Develop and validate sensory methodologies, testing protocols, and best practices.
- Analyze research data and communicate findings and recommendations to technical and nontechnical audiences.
- As needed, manage external research vendors, project timelines, budgets, fieldwork, and deliverables.
- Maintain accurate research records, protocols, datasets, reports, and laboratory documentation.
- Partner with R&D, Marketing, Sales, Regulatory, Quality, and Innovation teams to translate sensory insights into business recommendations.
- Follow company safety, quality, food safety, laboratory, and regulatory requirements.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in food science, sensory science, or a related field, such as biology, physiology, psychology, statistics, consumer science, or cognitive science.
- Five to seven years of sensory or consumer research experience, including descriptive panel leadership.
- Working knowledge of statistical analysis and sensory methodologies, including descriptive analysis, discrimination testing, and product-based consumer research.
- Experience developing and maintaining laboratory or facility SOPs and training team members on established procedures.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and other Windows-based software.
- Ability to identify, distinguish, and clearly communicate differences among flavor and aroma stimuli.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, organizational, communication, and presentation skills.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.
Preferred Qualifications
- Master’s degree in Sensory Science.
- Flavor or fragrance industry experience.
- ServSafe Manager Certification.
- Experience using Compusense or similar sensory research software.
Additional Requirements
- Ability to taste and smell a wide range of food, beverage, flavor, and fragrance products.
- Ability to perform sensory evaluations without wearing fragrances or other scented products that could interfere with testing.
- Ability to occasionally lift or move up to 25 pounds and transport samples and supplies.
- Ability to work around food ingredients, allergens, odors, temperature changes, and cleaning agents while wearing required personal protective equipment.
Why Bell?
- Collaborative with cross-functional experts and contribute to consumer insights in an innovative environment
- Opportunity to make a direct impact on product quality
- Comprehensive benefits and growth opportunities
- Competitive salary range $75,000 - $85,000
Ready to make a difference in the world of flavors and fragrances? Apply today!