Sensory Scientist

LaSalle Network is partnering with an innovative consumer products organization to hire a Sensory Scientist to lead sensory and consumer research initiatives that support product development, quality, and innovation efforts. This role combines hands-on sensory testing, consumer insights, descriptive analysis leadership, and research design to help drive data-driven product decisions. The ideal candidate will bring both technical expertise in sensory science and the ability to independently manage studies from concept through reporting.

What’s the job?

• Lead sensory and consumer research projects to support product development, innovation, and business objectives
• Design, execute, and analyze sensory studies using scientifically sound methodologies
• Manage day-to-day operations of the sensory research facility, including scheduling, inventory, and laboratory organization
• Coordinate study logistics, including sample preparation, labeling, serving, and data collection
• Serve as the lead for descriptive sensory analysis programs, including panel recruitment, training, calibration, and performance monitoring
• Utilize sensory research software to create, launch, monitor, and close studies while ensuring data accuracy and integrity
• Analyze sensory and consumer data and provide actionable insights to internal stakeholders
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and study summaries for cross-functional teams
• Train and oversee support staff, contractors, and panel participants on testing procedures and best practices
• Maintain study documentation, records, and compliance with internal quality and food safety standards
• Collaborate closely with R&D, product development, quality, and commercial teams to support project goals
  
  

What’s needed?

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Food Science, Sensory Science, Consumer Science, Psychology, Statistics, or a related field
• 3 years of experience in sensory science, consumer research, or product testing environments
• Experience independently designing, executing, and analyzing sensory or consumer research studies
• Knowledge of descriptive analysis methodologies and sensory panel management
• Experience with sensory data collection and analysis software platforms
• Strong statistical analysis, reporting, and data interpretation skills
• Excellent communication and presentation abilities
• Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple studies simultaneously
• Ability to perform sensory evaluations involving tasting and smelling a wide variety of products
  
  

What’s in it for me?

• Opportunity to lead high-impact sensory and consumer research initiatives
• Visible role supporting innovation and product development decisions
• Exposure to a wide range of product categories and research methodologies
• Collaborative environment working with cross-functional technical and commercial teams
• Opportunity to shape and grow sensory programs within a well-established organization
  
  

Key Details

• Compensation: $80,000–$85,000 base
• Benefits: Health, Vision, Dental, and 401k
• Location: Northfield, IL
• Work Model: Onsite
  
  

Step into a key Sensory Scientist role and help transform consumer insights and sensory data into innovative products and business decisions.

Thank you,

Nick Roche

LaSalle Network

LNESC

LaSalle Network is an Equal Opportunity Employer m/f/d/v.

LaSalle Network is the leading provider of direct hire and temporary staffing services. For over two decades, LaSalle has helped organizations hire faster and connect top talent with opportunities, from entry-level positions to the C-suite. With units specializing in Accounting and Finance, Administrative, Engineering, Marketing, Technology, Supply Chain, Revenue Cycle, Call Center, Human Resources and Executive Search, LaSalle offers staffing and recruiting solutions to companies of all sizes and across all industries.

LaSalle Network is the premier staffing and recruiting firm, earning over 100 culture, revenue and industry-based awards from major publications and having its company experts regularly contribute insights on retention strategies, hiring trends, hiring challenges, and more to national news outlets. LaSalle Network offers temporary Field Employees benefit plans including medical, dental and vision coverage. Family Medical Leave, Worker's Compensation, Paid Leave and Sick Leave are also provided. View a full list of our benefits here: View a full list of our benefits here.

All assignments are at-will and their duration is subject to change.