ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Sensory Science Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Herbalife

Sr. Lab Technician, Sensory

Torrance, CA

$20 - $26.50/hr

Independently coordinate with Sensory Scientist to execute sensory testing following the provided test designspecifications. * Ensure complete and detailed information is entered into Sensory ...

Herbalife

Sr. Lab Technician, Sensory

Torrance, CA · On-site

$20 - $26.50/hr

Independently coordinate with Sensory Scientist to execute sensory testing following the provided test design specifications. * Ensure complete and detailed information is entered into Sensory ...

Herbalife

Sr. Lab Technician, Sensory

Torrance, CA · On-site

$20 - $26.50/hr

Independently coordinate with Sensory Scientist to execute sensory testing following the provided test design specifications. * Ensure complete and detailed information is entered into Sensory ...

Gallo

Sensory Assistant

Modesto, CA · On-site

$21.01 - $28.32/hr

A Taste of What You'll Do Responsible for supporting the Sensory evaluation process for the ... Associates of Science degree in Chemistry, Food Science, Biology, or Chemical Engineering plus 1 ...

New

Gallo

Sensory Assistant

Modesto, CA

$21.01 - $28.32/hr

A Taste of What You'll Do Responsible for supporting the Sensory evaluation process for the ... Associates of Science degree in Chemistry, Food Science, Biology, or Chemical Engineering plus 1 ...

New

Sweegen

Head Flavorist

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA · On-site

Extensive expertise in flavor formulation, raw materials, flavor technologies, and sensory science, particularly for reduced-sugar, natural, and wellness-focused applications. * Experience supporting ...

DSM

Scientist, GPCR Biology - San Diego, CA

San Diego, CA · On-site

$10K - $140K/yr

The chance to contribute to innovation platforms that connect receptor biology, sensory science, and data-driven discovery to deliver meaningful consumer experiences. You Bring : * PhD in Cell ...

Kagome Inc.

RO Lab Sensory Assistant

Los Banos, CA · On-site

... of sensory samples 15 Coordinate sensory panel 10 Data collection and distribution 5 Proper ... Some college courses in a science field preferred. Years and Type of Related Experience Required:

KAGOME, Inc.

RO Lab Sensory Assistant

Los Banos, CA · On-site

$19.27/hr

... of sensory samples 15 Coordinate sensory panel 10 Data collection and distribution 5 Proper ... Some college courses in a science field preferred. Years and Type of Related Experience Required:

Scientific Search

Food Scientist

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$73K - $92K/yr

Analyze sensory, shelf-life and manufacturing data About You * Bachelor's in Food Science, Food Engineering, Chemistry, Nutrition, or related field * Strong food formulation and ingredient ...

New

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSensory Science JobsSensory Science Jobs in California

Sensory Science information

See California salary details

$11

$22

$33

How much do sensory science jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for sensory science in California is $22.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $27.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is sensory science?

Sensory science is the study of how people perceive and respond to products, primarily through the senses of taste, smell, sight, touch, and hearing. Sensory scientists design tests and experiments to evaluate products like food, beverages, cosmetics, and more, using trained panels or consumer groups. Their work helps companies improve product quality, understand consumer preferences, and develop new products that appeal to target audiences.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in sensory science, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Sensory Science often encounter challenges such as recruiting and maintaining diverse, reliable sensory panels, ensuring consistent testing conditions, and translating subjective sensory data into actionable product insights. To address these challenges, sensory scientists typically invest in thorough panelist training, implement rigorous quality control protocols, and collaborate closely with product development and marketing teams. Regular calibration sessions and clear communication across departments help ensure that sensory testing results are both scientifically valid and practically useful for guiding product decisions.

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

To thrive as a Sensory Scientist, you need a solid background in food science, chemistry, or a related field, often supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with sensory evaluation methods, statistical analysis software (such as XLSTAT or Compusense), and experimental design is essential. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills are critical for interpreting and presenting research findings. These skills ensure accurate data collection, reliable sensory insights, and meaningful product development recommendations.

What is the difference between Sensory Science vs Sensory Analyst?

AspectSensory ScienceSensory Analyst
CredentialsDegree in Food Science, Psychology, or related field; training in sensory evaluationSimilar educational background; specialized training in sensory testing methods
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, product development teams, sensory testing facilitiesLaboratory settings, sensory booths, product testing environments
Industry UsageUsed broadly in food, beverage, cosmetics, and consumer product industriesPrimarily in food and beverage sectors for product testing and quality control

Sensory Science encompasses the broader field of studying human responses to products, including research and development. Sensory Analysts focus specifically on conducting sensory tests and collecting data. While both roles require similar credentials and work environments, Sensory Science involves designing studies and analyzing data, whereas Sensory Analysts execute testing procedures.

What degree do you need to be a sensory science?

A career in sensory science typically requires at least a bachelor's degree in food science, chemistry, psychology, or a related field. Advanced roles may require a master's or doctoral degree, along with skills in data analysis and sensory evaluation techniques.

What does a sensory science do?

A sensory scientist studies how people perceive and respond to different products through taste, smell, sight, touch, and sound. They design and conduct sensory tests, analyze data, and help improve product quality and consumer satisfaction using tools like sensory panels and statistical analysis. This role often requires knowledge of sensory evaluation methods and attention to detail.

What are the most commonly searched types of Sensory Science jobs in California?

The most popular types of Sensory Science jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Sensory Science jobs in California?

For Sensory Science jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Sensory Science jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Sensory Science jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Sensory Science jobs?

Cities in California with the most Sensory Science job openings:

Sensory Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sensory Science job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,361 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Senior Food Scientist

Monterey Mushrooms, LLC.

Royal Oaks, CA • On-site

$120K - $145K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Lead sensory evaluation of mushroom powders, extracts, and finished ingredients.

  • Develop and maintain sensory standards and evaluate production lots to ensure product quality.

  • Research, develop, and optimize extraction technologies and processing methods to improve product quality and develop new ingredient formats.

Job description

Job Title: Senior Food Scientist - Ingredient Innovation
Reporting To: VP of Nutraceuticals
Location: Royal Oaks, CA
FLSA Status: Full Time Exempt
Work Schedule: Generally, Monday – Friday, 8AM – 5PM
Compensation: The following information is provided in honesty as a general description of the salary range. The actual compensation offered to the successful candidate is dependent upon related factors such as skills, experience, education, etc. Salary Estimate: $120,000 - $145,000 DOE
Amycel®
For more than 45 years, Amycel® has helped shape the way commercial mushrooms are grown. From the proprietary strain genetics behind some of the most widely grown brown mushrooms in the world, to grower-to-grower field support that starts on the farm, mushroom operations around the globe rely on Amycel to perform.
Premium spawn. Trusted supplements. A relentless focus on quality and consistency. That foundation has not changed since 1979. What has changed is scale. Today Amycel serves commercial growers across the Americas and Europe, with production and support on three continents.
Our R amp;D program runs 32 dedicated test rooms focused on new genetics and inputs that help growers get more from every crop. Current priorities include:
  • Strains developed for higher yield and reduced water use
  • Kodiak, launching Summer 2026, requires up to 50% less water for the same yield
  • Spawn carriers engineered to reduce green mold and compost waste
  • Delayed-release supplement technology that protects compost and extends flush viability
Visit us at www.Amycel.com.
Monterey Nutra®
Monterey has spent more than 55 years getting to know mushrooms. Refining cultivation methods. Discovering and developing new strains. That depth of expertise is what drives Monterey Nutra.
Our nutraceutical division was built on the science behind our genetics program. The same rigor that produces better spawn produces better extracts. The result: full-spectrum mushroom ingredients with industry-leading potency and purity, optimized for solubility, clean taste, and consistent performance.
We partner with innovators across food, beverage, and wellness to help them formulate better products. Whether you are building a new supplement line or looking for a reliable functional ingredient supplier, Monterey Nutra gives you the tools to do it right.
Certified Organic. Non-GMO. Vegan. Third-party tested.
For more information, visit us https://www.montereynutra.com.
Follow us on our socials!
Why This Role Matters:
Monterey Nutra is seeking an innovative, hands-on Food Scientist to join our Research amp; Development team. This role will be responsible for ensuring the sensory quality, consistency, and performance of our functional mushroom ingredients while driving the development of next-generation extraction technologies and ingredient innovations.
The ideal candidate has a strong foundation in food chemistry, sensory science, ingredient functionality, and food processing. They are equally comfortable evaluating products in the lab, analyzing manufacturing data, and working alongside production teams to improve processes and develop new technologies.
This is a unique opportunity to help shape the future of one of the fastest-growing categories in functional nutrition.
What You’ll Own:
Sensory Science amp; Quality
  • Lead sensory evaluation of mushroom powders, extracts, and finished ingredients.
  • Develop and maintain sensory standards for flavor, aroma, color, texture, solubility, and overall product performance.
  • Create standardized sensory evaluation protocols and train internal team members.
  • Evaluate every production lot to ensure products meet established sensory specifications.
  • Identify sensory trends and root causes of variation and recommend corrective actions.
Process Development amp; Manufacturing
  • Develop a deep understanding of our cultivation, extraction, concentration, drying, and manufacturing processes.
  • Determine how processing parameters influence flavor, aroma, color, functionality, and ingredient performance.
  • Design and execute experiments to improve product quality and consistency.
  • Collaborate closely with operations and engineering teams to optimize manufacturing processes.
  • Troubleshoot production issues using scientific and data-driven approaches.
Product Innovation
  • Research and develop novel extraction technologies and ingredient processing methods.
  • Evaluate emerging food technologies and their application to functional mushroom ingredients.
  • Develop new ingredient formats with improved sensory properties, solubility, stability, and functionality.
  • Support commercialization of new products from concept through production scale-up.
  • Stay current on scientific literature and industry trends related to food science, extraction technology, and functional ingredients.
Analytical amp; Technical Responsibilities
  • Interpret analytical data alongside sensory observations to guide product improvements.
  • Maintain detailed experimental records and prepare technical reports.
  • Work with cross-functional teams including Quality, Operations, Sales, and Regulatory.
  • Help establish product specifications and quality standards for new ingredients.
  • Assist in validation of new manufacturing processes and product claims.
What’s The Right Fit:
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Food Science, Food Chemistry, Food Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline.
  • 3–8+ years of experience in food ingredient development, food manufacturing, or product development.
  • Strong understanding of food chemistry and ingredient interactions.
  • Experience with sensory evaluation methodologies and sensory panel development.
  • Knowledge of ingredient processing technologies including extraction, concentration, drying, emulsification, and powder processing.
  • Strong experimental design and statistical analysis skills.
  • Excellent communication and technical writing abilities.

Apply