Kraft Heinz
Food Science
Scientist,R&D-PanelLeader&DescriptiveSensory
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“Scientist, R&D - Panel Leader & Descriptive Sensory at Kraft Heinz. Skills: Sensory descriptive panel research, Data analysis, Panelist management. Plan and conduct descriptive sensory projects. Lead descriptive sensory analysis panels”
What You'll Achieve.
Deliver actionable sensory insights; Inform product development, quality, and business decisions; Deliver rigorous, timely, and aligned sensory data and recommendations; Implement key findings; Ensure data quality and consistency; Ensure consistency of methods, protocols, and data interpretation
Industry & Context.
Actionable recommendations; Corrective actions
Ability to lift 20lbs, Occasional travel, Work on-site at least three days per week
What They're Looking For.
Must Have
Bachelor's degree in Sensory Science, Food Science, Statistics, Market Research, or a related field with 2–3 years of relevant experience, Associate of Science with a sensory and consumer science certification and equivalent experience, Strong knowledge of sensory methodologies, including descriptive analysis, and discrimination testing, Demonstrated ability to plan, execute, and interpret analytical sensory studies and translate results into clear business recommendations, Proven capability to evaluate and improve panel performance through application of statistical monitoring tools, Strong interpersonal, facilitation, and communication skills, Excellent organizational, project management, prioritization, and time-management skills, High attention to detail, Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a team-based environment, Demonstrated discretion and ability to handle confidential and sensitive information appropriately, Ability to lift 20lbs
Nice to Have
Solid understanding of statistical analyses for sensory experience with multivariate techniques (e. g. , PCA, PLS, MDS), Experience with sensory data collection and analysis software (e. g. , RedJade, Compusense), Willingness and ability to travel occasionally
What You'll Do.
Plan and conduct descriptive sensory projects
Lead descriptive sensory analysis panels
Moderate panel discussions
Develop and deliver sensory training
Analyze and interpret sensory data
Present findings and recommendations
Monitor panel performance
Develop and maintain sensory reference library
Support global sensory alignment
Collaborate on preference mapping
Consult with internal clients
Develop working understanding of brands
How You'll Work.
Team & Collaboration
Collaborates closely with the Sensory & Consumer Experience team, R&D, Marketing, and other internal partners; Collaborate with Senior Sensory Scientists; Consult with internal clients; Collaborate across functions; Work collaboratively in a team-based environment
Communication Scope
Communication skills; Facilitation skills; Ability to influence
Process & Methodology
Project management, Prioritization, Time-management, Manage multiple projects simultaneously, Meet deadlines
Full Job Description
## _Job Description_ **Job Purpose** The **Sensory Descriptive Panel Leader** is responsible for sensory descriptive panel research for assigned Kraft Heinz product categories. This role owns day‑to‑day panel operations, including project management, panelist training and performance, data collection and analysis, reporting, and delivery of actionable sensory insights that inform product development, quality, and business decisions. The position collaborates closely with the Sensory & Consumer Experience team, R&D, Marketing, and other internal partners to deliver rigorous, timely, and aligned sensory data and recommendations. **Essential Functions & Responsibilities ** * Plan and conduct descriptive sensory projects, participate in development of project objectives, execute against same, and recommend action plans to implement key findings * Lead descriptive sensory analysis (QDA) panels for assigned product categories, including planning, scheduling, preparing, and facilitating panel sessions. * Moderate panel discussions and consensus sessions objectively and without bias while ensuring adherence to established sensory protocols. * Recruit, train, rescreen, motivate, and manage panelists to maintain a qualified, reliable, and high performing panel. * Develop and deliver sensory training for panelists, plant personnel, and internal stakeholders on sensory fundamentals, evaluation methods, and best practices. * Analyze and interpret sensory data; prepare preliminary and final reports; and present findings and actionable recommendations to internal clients and cross functional teams. * Monitor panel performance using statistical tools and implement calibration, retraining, or corrective actions as needed to ensure data quality and consistency. * Develop and maintain sensory reference library including reference standards, consumables, sample prep procedures, evaluation procedures and proper documentation. * Support global sensory alignment by collabora
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