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Sensory Panel Leader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hersheys

Part-Time Sensory Panelist

Hershey, PA

Sensory Panelists will work under the supervision of the Associate Manager and Sensory Panel Leader to support daily tasting and panel maintenance requirements. The individual will apply appropriate ...

Eurofins

Sensory Panel Manager

Clark, NJ · On-site

$115K/yr

Company Description Who we are We are the leading international sensory and consumer research ... As a Panel Manager, you will be working onsite at our client's R&D facility in Clark, New Jersey.

Eurofins Scientific

Sensory Panel Manager

Clark, NJ

$115K/yr

Company Description Who we are We are the leading international sensory and consumer research ... As a Panel Manager, you will be working onsite at our client's R&D facility in Clark, New Jersey.

Bell Flavors & Fragrances

Sensory Scientist

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Bachelor's degree in food science or a related field (Master's a plus) * 5-7 years of sensory or consumer research experience, including panel leadership * Strong statistical analysis skills for ...

The LaSalle Group

Sensory Scientist

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

This role combines hands-on sensory testing, consumer insights, descriptive analysis leadership ... Serve as the lead for descriptive sensory analysis programs, including panel recruitment, training ...

Lactalis USA

Associate Sensory Scientist

Buffalo, NY · On-site

... Leadership Team monthly product tasting * sessions. * Travel to manufacturing plants and headquarters office on a regular basis to provide support to Factory Sensory Panels * and meet with Corporate ...

Lactalis USA

Associate Sensory Scientist

Buffalo, NY · On-site

$65K - $70K/yr

... Executive Leadership Team monthly product tasting sessions.Travel to manufacturing plants and headquarters office on a regular basis to provide support to Factory Sensory Panels and meet with ...

Lactalis USA Inc.

Associate Sensory Scientist

Buffalo, NY · On-site

$65K - $70K/yr

... Leadership Team monthly product tasting * sessions. * Travel to manufacturing plants and headquarters office on a regular basis to provide support to Factory Sensory Panels * and meet with Corporate ...

Lactalis LAG

Associate Sensory Scientist

Buffalo, NY · On-site

$65K - $70K/yr

... Leadership Team monthly product tasting * sessions. * Travel to manufacturing plants and headquarters office on a regular basis to provide support to Factory Sensory Panels * and meet with Corporate ...

Pulsejobs

Sensory Manager

Knoxville, TN

$130K - $150K/yr

... panels and practices including coaching and leading multi-site sensory initiatives 30% - Oversight and support of Sensory for innovation and new product development - Serve as and provide team ...

Sartori

Sensory Scientist III

Plymouth, WI

SUMMARY The Sensory Scientist III leads sensory research focused on ensuring the sensory quality ... Trains, manages, and mentors trained sensory panels and junior sensory scientists * Develops and ...

McCormick & Company

Lab Technician IV

Hunt Valley, MD · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

This position is responsible for coordinating and implementing a variety of sensory methodologies, including leading trained external Descriptive Analysis (DA) panels. The Lab Tech IV partners ...

Sartori

Sensory Scientist III

Plymouth, WI · On-site

SUMMARY The Sensory Scientist III leads sensory research focused on ensuring the sensory quality ... Trains, manages, and mentors trained sensory panels and junior sensory scientists * Develops and ...

McCormick & Company

Lab Technician IV

Hunt Valley, MD

$18 - $24/hr

This position is responsible for coordinating and implementing a variety of sensory methodologies, including leading trained external Descriptive Analysis (DA) panels. The Lab Tech IV partners ...

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All JobsSensory Panel Leader Jobs

Sensory Panel Leader information

See salary details

$23.5K

$59.5K

$86.5K

How much do sensory panel leader jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for sensory panel leader in the United States is $59,499.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,000.00 and $86,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Sensory Panel Leader ensure consistency and reliability in panelist evaluations?

A Sensory Panel Leader maintains consistency and reliability by rigorously training panelists, developing standardized test protocols, and regularly calibrating both the panel and the testing environment. They facilitate regular feedback sessions, monitor individual panelist performance, and address any drift in evaluation standards. This structured approach helps produce accurate, reproducible sensory data that supports product development and quality assurance teams.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Sensory Panel Leader, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sensory Panel Leader, you need a background in food science, sensory evaluation, and data analysis, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with sensory analysis software, statistical tools, and standardized testing protocols is typically required. Strong leadership, effective communication, and attention to detail are crucial soft skills for managing panelists and ensuring reliable results. These skills are vital for producing accurate sensory data that informs product development and quality decisions.

What is the difference between Sensory Panel Leader vs Sensory Analyst?

AspectSensory Panel LeaderSensory Analyst
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in food science, sensory science, or related field; certifications in sensory evaluation are commonSimilar credentials; often holds degrees in food science or related areas; sensory evaluation certifications are advantageous
Work EnvironmentLeads sensory panels, manages panelists, and oversees testing procedures in laboratory or production settingsConducts sensory tests, analyzes data, and reports findings in laboratory or production environments
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by food, beverage, and consumer product companies to manage sensory testing programsEmployed in similar industries to perform sensory data collection and analysis

The main difference is that a Sensory Panel Leader manages and oversees sensory testing panels, while a Sensory Analyst focuses on conducting tests and analyzing sensory data. Both roles require similar qualifications and work environments, but the Panel Leader has additional responsibilities in leadership and panel management.

What are Sensory Panel Leaders?

Sensory Panel Leaders are professionals who oversee sensory evaluation panels, which are groups of trained individuals who assess the taste, smell, appearance, texture, and other sensory attributes of food, beverages, or other products. The leader is responsible for recruiting and training panelists, organizing sensory tests, ensuring standardization and accuracy, and interpreting the data collected. They play a crucial role in product development, quality control, and consumer research by providing insights into how products are perceived by people. Sensory Panel Leaders often work closely with product developers, quality assurance teams, and marketing departments.
More about Sensory Panel Leader jobs
What cities are hiring for Sensory Panel Leader jobs? Cities with the most Sensory Panel Leader job openings:
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Sensory Panel Leader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sensory Panel Leader job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,499 per year, or $28.6 per hour.
Part-Time Sensory Panelist

Part-Time Sensory Panelist

Hersheys

Hershey, PA

Other

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Job Location: Hershey, PA

Summary:  
Sensory Panelists will work under the supervision of the Associate Manager and Sensory Panel Leader to support daily tasting and panel maintenance requirements. The individual will apply appropriate focus and concentration on tasting responsibilities, engage in discussion regarding sample descriptions, and apply knowledge of GMPs and Food Safety requirements.  
 

The individual will interact with fellow sensory panelists, the panel leader, the sensory technician and the Research Scientists responsible for leading Descriptive Analysis projects.  

Minimum knowledge, skills and abilities required to successfully perform major duties/responsibilities:  

Excellent tasting skills (ability to discern differences in samples for appearance, taste, texture); successful performance on screening tests for sensory acuity.
Ability to interact effectively with large and diverse groups of people as well as to work independently
Ability to listen and follow direction from a group leader and management
Ability to maintain and uphold a professional work culture
Computer skills (Word, Excel, Outlook)
Excellent organizational and communication skills
Bonus: Hershey computer systems (EyeQuestion)

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements:  
Education: High School diploma or GED. 

Bonus: Associates degree in Science
Experience :Minimum of 1-2 years of applicable work experience with Sensory testing and\or food handling.  

Other:
Excellent tasting skills (ability to discern differences in samples for appearance, taste, texture); assessed via taste acuity testing. The candidate must achieve successful performance on screening tests for sensory acuity.

Bonus: Food safety and handling training\Serve Safe.

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The Hershey Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The policy of The Hershey Company is to extend opportunities to qualified applicants and employees on an equal basis regardless of an individual's race, color, gender, age, national origin, religion, citizenship status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, transgender status, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other categories protected by applicable federal, state or local laws.
The Hershey Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Minority/Female/Disabled/Protected Veterans.  

You may request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access our online application process as a result of a disability.
You can request an accommodation via phone or email.  

To request an accommodation via phone, please call +1 877-804-1794 and leave a voicemail with your contact information.  You may also email a request for accommodation to ApplicationHelp@hersheys.com. Please be sure to include "Accommodation Needed" in the subject line. This will ensure that your email is routed to the appropriate contact who will handle your request.

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