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Minnesota Jobs

Sensory Trained Panelist

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$16.50/hr

Sensory Trained Panelist Plymouth, MN, USA Part-time SAM is a fast-growing and global sensory and consumer research consultancy. Our mission is to allow consumers a voice in the development of ...

Eurofins

Sensory Trained Panelist

Plymouth, MN · On-site

$16.50/hr

Company Description SAM is a fast-growing and global sensory and consumer research consultancy . Our mission is to allow consumers a voice in the development of outstanding food, beverage, pet, and ...

Eurofins Scientific

Sensory Trained Panelist

Plymouth, MN · On-site

$16.50/hr

Company Description SAM is a fast-growing and global sensory and consumer research consultancy . Our mission is to allow consumers a voice in the development of outstanding food, beverage, pet, and ...

Eurofins

Sensory Trained Panelist

Plymouth, MN · On-site

$16.50/hr

Company Description SAM is a fast-growing and global sensory and consumer research consultancy . Our mission is to allow consumers a voice in the development of outstanding food, beverage, pet, and ...

Pulsejobs

Sensory Manager

Knoxville, TN

$130K - $150K/yr

... to consumer sensory experience with products and packaging/branding - Support research related to innovation and new product development initiatives 10% - Leadership and other initiatives within ...

Sartori

Sensory Scientist III

Plymouth, WI · On-site

Equivalent experience may be considered in lieu of advanced degrees. * 5+ years of experience in sensory and consumer research, preferably in dairy or food manufacturing required. * Demonstrated ...

Sartori

Sensory Scientist III

Plymouth, WI · On-site

Equivalent experience may be considered in lieu of advanced degrees. * 5+ years of experience in sensory and consumer research, preferably in dairy or food manufacturing required. * Demonstrated ...

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How much do consumer sensory research jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for consumer sensory research in the United States is $22.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $23.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is consumer sensory research?

Consumer sensory research is the scientific process of evaluating and understanding how consumers perceive products using their senses, such as taste, smell, sight, touch, and hearing. This type of research helps companies optimize their products based on consumer preferences and feedback. Sensory tests are often conducted in controlled environments where participants sample products and provide feedback on qualities like flavor, texture, and appearance. The insights gained help businesses improve product development, marketing, and quality control to better satisfy their target market.

How does a consumer sensory researcher typically collaborate with product development teams?

Consumer Sensory Researchers work closely with product development teams by designing and conducting sensory tests to gather feedback on product taste, smell, texture, and appearance. They translate consumer sensory data into actionable insights that guide formulation tweaks and product improvements. Regular collaboration involves participating in cross-functional meetings, sharing research findings, and advising on consumer preferences to ensure products align with market expectations. This teamwork is essential for launching products that satisfy customers and stand out in the marketplace.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a consumer sensory researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Consumer Sensory Researcher, you need expertise in sensory evaluation methods, data analysis, and often a degree in food science, psychology, or a related field. Familiarity with statistical software (such as SPSS or XLSTAT), sensory testing tools, and experimental design is typically required. Strong attention to detail, communication skills, and the ability to interpret consumer feedback are essential soft skills. These abilities ensure reliable sensory data collection, meaningful consumer insights, and successful product development.
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Consumer Sensory Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Consumer Sensory Research job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 94% Full Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,222 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Sensory Trained Panelist

Minnesota Jobs

Minneapolis, MN • On-site

$16.50/hr

Other

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Sensory Trained Panelist

Plymouth, MN, USA

Part-time

SAM is a fast-growing and global sensory and consumer research consultancy. Our mission is to allow consumers a voice in the development of outstanding food, beverage, pet, and health & beauty products so as to create high quality and memorable experiences. We help our clients:

  • Develop new product ideas
  • Re-energize a well-established product
  • Assess product-concept fit or packaging effectiveness
  • Understand the product, brand and category competitive landscapes
  • Protect product quality from inception to the end of shelf life

SAM The National Food Lab is the division of SAM that provides these services for all USA-based clients. Our sensory science program resides in our USA headquarters in Minneapolis, MN.

The Sensory Trained Panelist plays a critical role in supporting sensory research projects by ensuring attendance to the training and panel sessions. Working directly with the Panel Leader and reporting to the Sensory Research Manager, this position focuses on operational excellence and adherence to protocols to deliver high-quality data for client projects.

Workload will be varied, so we ask that you are flexible with working hours. Typical panel sessions will either be held between 10:00 AM-12:00 PM or between 12:30-3:00 PM.

You will learn how to objectively assess the properties of products and become part of a trained Expert Sensory Panel. As a trained, expert panelist you will be expected to:

  • Work collaboratively as part of a team: exchange, listen, reach an agreement on sensory properties.
  • Evaluate products with objectivity and identify the differences between them, using software on a computer.
  • Respect and apply test protocols and instructions given by the panel leader.
  • Respect project confidentiality.
  • Take part in further training to expand the range of products that you can evaluate.

This position reports directly to the Sensory Research Manager.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Evaluate products objectively
  • Follow standardized testing protocols
  • Use sensory scales accurately
  • Participate in training and calibration sessions
  • Provide detailed and reliable feedback
  • Maintain confidentiality
  • Follow hygiene and safety guidelines
  • Arrive on time and prepare
  • Communicate with the panel leader

Core skills include:

  • Strong sensory acuity
  • Ability to detect small differences in appearance, aroma, flavor, texture, or tactile attributes.
  • Objective evaluation skills
  • Capacity to separate personal preferences from product assessment and provide unbiased feedback.
  • Attention to detail
  • Ability to notice subtle differences and describe them accurately.
  • Consistency and reliability
  • Ability to give stable, repeatable evaluations across sessions.
  • Clear verbal and written communication
  • Comfortable using descriptive terminology and standardized sensory language.
  • Ability to follow protocols
  • Comfortable working within structured procedures, timing, and testing conditions.

Qualifications include:

  • No conditions that impair taste, smell, or tactile perception (e.g., chronic sinus issues, active colds, skin sensitivities depending on product type).
  • Availability for scheduled sessions
  • Consistent attendance and punctuality are essential for data quality.
  • Comfort with repeated product evaluation
  • Ability to evaluate multiple samples in a controlled, repetitive format.
  • Willingness to participate in training
  • Openness to learning sensory terminology, scaling methods, and calibration exercises.
  • Confidentiality and professionalism
  • Ability to maintain discretion regarding prototypes, client information, and internal processes.
  • Basic computer literacy
  • Comfortable using digital ballots or tablets for data entry.

Candidate requirements include:

  • No food allergies or intolerances.
  • No skin allergies or intolerances.
  • Would enjoy tasting a variety of different foods, flavors and ingredients, smell a variety of different fragrances and test skin creams, soaps & other personal care products.
  • Interested in a long-term role – please do not apply if you are a student or looking for short-term work e.g. a summer job.
  • Interpersonal team skills.

Pay Range: $16.50/Hr.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Eurofins USA Food Testing is a Disabled and Veteran Equal Employment Opportunity employer.

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