Sensory & Product Experience Specialist

Nestle Operational Services Worldwide SA•Paris Township, OH

9d•$73,318 - $105,472

About The Position

The Nestlé Development Center in Marysville is responsible for the ideation, renovation, and development of new and existing coffee and coffee enhancing products, business models, and services for the world’s biggest coffee brands. Our mission is to delight the consumer wherever, whenever, and however by delivering moments of genuine pleasure and indulgence - to achieve this we are committed to our talented, creative, and motivated team. If you are excited and passionate about coffee and its potential, come join us and help create the future. We are looking for a Specialist in Sensory & Product Experience to collaborate with project teams to lead sensory product research in support of Nestlé brands and R&D programs to drive consumer-centricity and guide decision-making. The Specialist contributes expertise and knowledge to ensure success in product innovation and renovation in a dynamic, international environment.

Requirements

Degree in Food Science, Psychology or equivalent preferred with emphasis in Sensory Science; Bachelor’s degree required, Master’s degree preferred
Three or more years of experience in Consumer and Sensory Research with application of a wide range of techniques
In-depth knowledge of statistics; ability to analyse DoE studies.
Ability to work independently and handle multiple projects simultaneously.
Good interpersonal/teamwork skills and a good understanding of business/technical interrelationships.
Excellent planning, organization, and project management abilities.
Dynamic, proactive, and flexible with an entrepreneurial spirit
Focus on Consumer-Centricity and Product Perception
Solid written and oral communication skills and can cater content for various audiences
Strong computer skills (MS-Office applications, statistical software, and sensory data collection software)
Fluent in English (written and spoken)
Ability to travel (10-15% domestically and internationally)

Nice To Haves

Experience in the coffee and beverage category a plus.

Responsibilities

Deliver sensory product insights to Innovation and Renovation projects as a partner to project managers and members of cross-functional project teams.
Manage sensory and consumer studies with clear, time-bound plans from start to finish including design, statistical analysis, interpretation, documentation, and presentation to stakeholders.
Build consumer and sensory product knowledge and competitive intelligence with clear links to consumer trends and business figures to influence strategy.
Ensure continuous improvement for team support and development through communication and coaching of technicians, panel leaders, and interns.
Continuously seek to improve Consumer and Sensory Research methods and promote agility according to business needs.
Actively participate in cross-functional teams including the Strategic Business Unit (SBU), Product Technology Center (PTC), and the Market to drive product improvement locally.
Provide technical assistance & expertise to markets/businesses in Sensory Evaluation and consumer research.
Work as part of a global innovation team across US, Switzerland, and Singapore to create a cohesive Sensory & Product Experience function.
Communicate proactively with product category leads and business units to understand needs and business context.
Network with Nestle Research Centers (NRC), other Product Technology Centers (PTC)/R&Ds for knowledge sharing and best practices.
Keep up with new developments in the fields of Sensory & Product Experience research.