Consumer Science Specialist

Location: Chattanooga, TN
Pay Rate: $30.00/hour
Job Type: Contract
Work Arrangement: Onsite

Position Overview

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.

Key Responsibilities

Sensory & Consumer Testing

• 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.

Panel & Participant Management

• 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.

Moderation & Facilitation

• 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.

Data & Reporting

• 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.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• 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.

Qualifications

Required

• 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.

Preferred

• 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.

Key Skills

• 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

Ideal Candidate

• 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.

Work Environment

• Onsite position based in a product development center in Chattanooga, TN.

• Hands-on, fast-paced environment focused on product innovation, sensory evaluation, and consumer research.

• Collaborative setting working with cross-functional product development teams.

Pay Details: $30.00 per hour

Benefit offerings available for our associates include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, additional voluntary benefits, EAP program, commuter benefits and a 401K plan. Our benefit offerings provide employees the flexibility to choose the type of coverage that meets their individual needs. In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other paid leave required by Federal, State, or local law, as well as Holiday pay where applicable.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled

Military connected talent encouraged to apply

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The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements, including, as applicable:

• The California Fair Chance Act
• Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance
• Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers
• San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance

Massachusetts Candidates Only: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.