Senior Technologist, Sensory

J.M. Smucker Co•Orrville, OH

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Senior Technologist, Sensory turns sensory science into product insights, owning projects from test design and panel execution through data analysis and reporting. The role leads trained descriptive panels and partners across the organization to support informed product decisions, develop sensory expertise, improve practices, and support other employees. The position is based in Orrville, Ohio, with a hybrid arrangement requiring onsite work at least 9 days per month, primarily during company-designated core weeks, and potentially more as business needs require. The stated schedule is Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The role spends much of its time analyzing data and writing reports, responding to sensory test requests, and managing descriptive panels. It also supports sensory laboratory needs, sensory software, training, and continuous improvement. The employee is expected to maintain an odor-neutral environment, including avoiding perfume and other scents and being mindful of environmental odors.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Biology, Psychology, Computer Science, or a related scientific or mathematical discipline.
At least 4 years of experience in the food industry or an equivalent academic program.
Understanding and application of sensory evaluation methodologies and statistics related to affective, discrimination, and descriptive testing.
Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
Strong computer skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Office and sensory software packages.
Attention to detail and ability to multitask and adapt in a dynamic business environment.
Ability to lead a trained panel efficiently without introducing bias.
Solid statistical background and problem-solving skills.
Strong project management, leadership, organizational, and time-management skills.
Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.

Nice To Haves

Sensory science training through academic or industry experience.
Panel Leader or Moderator experience.

Responsibilities

Manage or participate in test execution, including product procurement, statistical test design, consumer questionnaire development, and panelist and panel scheduling.
Analyze data and write reports, respond to sensory test requests, and manage descriptive panels.
Lead descriptive panels across product categories by recruiting, facilitating, engaging, and tracking trained panelist performance.
Manage inventory of descriptive panel references and products in the laboratory.
Plan panel maintenance and growth by managing the descriptive panel schedule.
Provide customer service and communicate effectively with panelists.
Build relationships within the Sensory team and with customers to improve communication.
Record testing anomalies and project details accurately and ensure SOPs are accurate.
Apply sensory evaluation methodologies to organize and conduct consumer and trained panels.
Contribute to continuous improvement of traditional sensory research practices, including efficiencies in project-making, reporting, and descriptive analysis.
Develop sensory science knowledge.
Provide guidance and support in the Sensory Lab as business needs require.
Develop and support sensory evaluation training for other departments or locations, such as Research & Development or plant quality teams.
Analyze and interpret traditional sensory data to prepare sensory projects and reports.
Coach sensory personnel through training, teaching sensory methodologies, and leading by example.
Provide technical support for sensory software, including software testing and upgrades.
Help maintain an odor-neutral environment by avoiding perfume and other scents and being aware of environmental odors.