Quality Control Sensory Technician - Erlanger, KY

Archer Daniels Midland•Erlanger, KY

2d•Onsite

About The Position

This position is responsible for evaluating and verifying the color, flavor, aroma, and appearance of products against established quality standards. This role ensures that every batch meets sensory specifications before release, using a combination of instrumental testing and trained sensory evaluation to catch inconsistencies, defects, or deviations that instruments alone might miss.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Chemistry or related field.
Demonstrated sensory acuity — ability to accurately detect and describe differences in taste, smell, and color
Strong attention to detail and ability to document findings objectively and consistently
Ability to work independently and make judgment calls on borderline samples
Basic computer skills for data entry and reporting (Excel, LIMS systems a plus)
Must be able to work in a lab environment involving exposure to various food/flavor/color samples.
Ability to taste and smell products as part of routine testing (candidates with dietary restrictions, allergies, or sensory impairments should discuss accommodations)
Ability to stand for extended periods and work in a lab/production environment

Nice To Haves

Prior experience in a QC lab, sensory panel, or food/beverage/cosmetics production environment preferred
Formal sensory training (e.g., descriptive analysis, triangle testing, duo-trio testing)
Knowledge of flavor/color specification documentation and batch record review

Responsibilities

Conduct sensory evaluations (taste, smell, appearance, color, texture) on raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products according to company SOPs
Perform instrumental color measurement (e.g., spectrophotometer, colorimeter) and record/interpret results against approved specifications
Compare product samples against reference/retain standards to identify deviations in flavor, color, or aroma
Document sensory panel results, testing data, and any out-of-spec findings accurately and in a timely manner
Participate in and/or lead internal sensory panels; calibrate personal sensory judgment against panel/reference standards regularly
Flag and escalate quality deviations to QC Supervisor or Lab Manager, providing clear, objective descriptions of the issue
Support root cause investigations when sensory failures occur, working with production and R&D teams
Maintain retain sample and reference standards for comparison testing
Follow all food safety, GMP, and lab safety protocols
Assist in developing or refining sensory testing protocols, scorecards, and specification ranges.
Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining Quality requirements.
Encourages Trust between Operations and Quality.
Brings new ideas and improvements to Quality protocols and procedures.