Senior Sensory Scientist

Tyson Foods, Inc.•Springdale, AR

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Senior Sensory Scientist I leads the sensory learning agenda for specific initiatives within brands and categories, serving as a strategic business partner. The role contributes across front-end exploration of sensory cues, validation, and the design and launch of innovative products. It champions the Consumer Product Performance Program to help maintain flagship products’ quality expectations and identifies new methods and approaches to continuously improve the sensory function. In collaboration with R&D, Marketing, and Consumer Insights, the role influences business decisions across the supported businesses. The position is based in Springdale, Arkansas (Greater NWA). Relocation support may be available to qualified candidates under Tyson’s Relocation Policy. The role has no direct reports, though it motivates, trains, and mentors junior team members. Travel is up to 25%.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Sensory, Food Science, Psychology, or a related field.
Proficiency in food or meat science.
Industry experience: 6 or more years with a bachelor’s degree, 4 or more years with a master’s degree, or 2 or more years with a Ph.D.
Skills in food science, sensory science, advanced data analysis (including design of experiments and category appraisals), qualitative and quantitative research, new methods development, Microsoft Office, project management, and budget management.
Leadership, independence, strategic agility, holistic thinking, influence, collaboration, analytical thinking, risk assessment, prioritization, troubleshooting, and mentoring skills.
Willingness and ability to perform the physical requirements of the job, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Willingness to travel up to 25%.

Nice To Haves

M.S., Ph.D., or Sensory Certification.
Experience managing and/or mentoring junior team members.

Responsibilities

Lead sensory learning agendas for strategic and tactical initiatives and provide perspective on potential long-term business impacts.
Balance hybrid research approaches with existing knowledge and understanding of key sensory attributes to deliver actionable guidance for R&D.
Translate consumer expectations to support functional product development and assessment of new technologies.
Share key insights with leadership and advise on product-related challenges.
Address ambiguous situations with manager assistance and adapt to evolving business needs.
Develop and maintain strategic partnerships with Product Development, Consumer Insights, Marketing, Culinary, Packaging, Quality, and external research vendors.
Identify opportunities for continuous improvement and develop the sensory function and personal capabilities.
Manage the sensory budget and prioritize immediate and forward-looking strategic needs with manager support.
Champion the consumer product quality program and recommend actions for strategic planning.
Stay current on research techniques through conferences, research materials, and industry experts, and apply new methods at Tyson using a test-and-learn approach.
Motivate, engage, train, and mentor junior team members.