Consumer Science Specialist

Location: Chattanooga, TN

Pay Rate: $ 30.00/hour

Job Type: Contract

Work Arrangement: Onsite

We are seeking a Consumer Science Specialist to join a product development center in Chattanooga, TN. This role supports innovation and product development through sensory evaluation, consumer research, panel management, and data analysis.

The ideal candidate has hands‑on experience with sensory science, consumer testing, and research execution. This position will help integrate consumer insights and sensory data into product development and business decisions.

• Plan, coordinate, and execute sensory evaluation studies, including descriptive, discrimination, and consumer testing.
• Prepare test materials, protocols, and evaluation environments.
• Ensure accurate data collection, documentation, and adherence to study protocols.
• Support product benchmarking, claims substantiation, and reformulation projects.

• Recruit, schedule, and manage consumer and trained sensory panels.
• Maintain participant engagement and data quality through appropriate training and oversight.
• Coordinate panel logistics and ensure smooth execution of evaluation sessions.

• Moderate consumer sessions, including product evaluations, focus groups, and co‑creation workshops.
• Facilitate discussions designed to gather meaningful qualitative consumer insights.
• Create an environment that encourages honest and constructive participant feedback.

• Compile, analyze, and summarize sensory and consumer research data.
• Translate findings into clear, actionable insights for R&D, marketing, quality, and other stakeholders.
• Support development of reports, presentations, and recommendations.

• Partner with R&D, product development, marketing, and other cross‑functional teams.
• Integrate consumer‑driven insights into product innovation initiatives.
• Support project timelines and business objectives.

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Sensory Science, Consumer Science, Biology, Psychology
  , or a related field.
• 2+ years of experience in sensory evaluation, consumer research, or product testing.
• Experience managing sensory panels or consumer testing sessions.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and studies simultaneously.

• Experience with consumer health, personal care, or OTC products.
• Familiarity with sensory methodologies such as hedonic testing, descriptive analysis, and triangle testing
  .
• Experience working in a laboratory or product development environment.
• Experience with consumer research facilitation or moderation.
• Working knowledge of Excel and basic statistical/data analysis tools.

• Sensory evaluation and test design
• Consumer research
• Panel recruitment and management
• Research session moderation
• Data analysis and interpretation
• Consumer insights and storytelling
• Cross‑functional collaboration
• Presentation and communication
• Project coordination and organization

• Proactive, self‑motivated, and solution‑oriented.
• Able to work independently while managing multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
• Strong presentation and storytelling skills with the ability to communicate research findings clearly.
• Confident facilitator with strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Adaptable and comfortable working in a dynamic product development environment.
• Collaborative team player who can build effective relationships across functions.
• Curious and passionate about understanding consumer behavior and product experiences.