Scientist, R&D - Panel Leader & Descriptive Sensory

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.

• 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 collaborating with regional and international sensory teams to ensure consistency of methods, protocols, and data interpretation across locations.
• Collaborate with Senior Sensory Scientists on preference mapping and qualitative multivariate analysis studies.
• Consult with internal clients to clarify research needs and align methodologies with business objectives.
• Develop a working understanding of Kraft Heinz brands, categories, and business priorities.

• Bachelor’s degree in Sensory Science, Food Science, Statistics, Market Research, or a related field with 2–3 years of relevant experience; or an Associate of Science with a sensory and consumer science certification and equivalent experience.
• Strong knowledge of sensory methodologies, including descriptive analysis and discrimination testing.
• Solid understanding of statistical analyses for sensory data; experience with multivariate techniques (e.g., PCA, PLS, MDS) preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to plan, execute, and interpret analytical sensory studies and translate results into clear business recommendations.
• Experience with sensory data collection and analysis software (e.g., Red Jade, Compusense) including test setup, dashboards, and reporting.
• Proven capability to evaluate and improve panel performance through application of statistical monitoring tools.
• Strong interpersonal, facilitation, and communication skills with the ability to influence and collaborate across functions and manage the group dynamics of sensory panels.
• Excellent organizational, project management, prioritization, and time‑management skills; able to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.
• High attention to detail with a strong commitment to scientific rigor, data integrity, and continuous improvement.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a team‑based environment.
• Demonstrated discretion and ability to handle confidential and sensitive information appropriately.
• Willingness and ability to travel occasionally to support training, calibration, or global alignment activities.

Our hybrid model provides flexibility based on business needs, allowing employees to work virtually up to two days per week,…