Lab Technician IV

McCormick & Company, Inc., a global leader in the spice, flavor, and seasonings industry, is seeking a full-time Lab Technician IV. This new hire will work in Technical Innovation Center, located in Hunt Valley, MD. The Lab Tech IV will report to a Sensory Lab Supervisor.

McCormick & Company, Incorporated is a global leader in flavor with approximately 14,000 employees worldwide. With over $6 billion in annual sales across 160 countries and territories, we manufacture, market, and distribute spices, seasoning mixes, condiments, and other flavorful products to the entire food industry including e-commerce, retail,food manufacturers and foodservice businesses. Our most popular brands include McCormick, Frenchs, Franks RedHot, Stubbs, OLD BAY, Lawrys, Zatarains, Ducros, Vahiné, Cholula, Schwartz, Kamis, DaQiao, Club House, Aeroplane, and Gourmet Garden. Every day, no matter where or what you eat or drink, you can enjoy food flavored by McCormick. Our Purpose is "To Stand Together for the Future of Flavor and our Vision is "A World United by Flavor-where healthy, sustainable and delicious go hand in hand."

As a company recognized for its exceptional commitment to employees, McCormick offers a wide variety of benefits, programs, and services. Benefits include, but are not limited to, tuition assistance, medical, dental, vision, disability, group life insurance, 401(k), profit sharing, paid holidays, and vacations.

Position Overview

Under the general supervision of the Laboratory Supervisor, the Lab Tech IV plays a lead role in planning, preparing, and executing sensory evaluations within the North America R&D Sensory Lab. This position is responsible for coordinating and implementing a variety of sensory methodologies, including leading trained external Descriptive Analysis (DA) panels. The Lab Tech IV partners closely with scientists and laboratory staff to ensure tests are conducted with integrity, repeatability, and alignment to project objectives, while maintaining high standards of laboratory organization and compliance with SOPs.

Key Responsibilities

Descriptive Analysis (DA) Panel Leadership

• Serve as DA Panel Leader 2-3 times per week (typically 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.).
• Review test requests and align testing approach with scientists to ensure methodologies meet project objectives.
• Prepare and submit panel ballots and evaluation materials in advance of sessions.
• Lead panel sessions, following evaluation schedules and ensuring adherence to established protocols.
• Facilitate panel discussions to clarify attribute interpretation and ensure accurate product evaluation.
• Review data in real time during sessions to identify inconsistencies or areas requiring clarification.
• Provide constructive feedback to panelists to support calibration and performance.
• Communicate panel outcomes and observations to responsible scientists in a clear and timely manner.
• Conduct evaluations under standard sensory conditions, including sessions performed under red lighting.
• Maintain or obtain certification in Sensory Science and/or Panel Leading methodologies to ensure best practices.

Sensory Test Planning & Implementation

• Plan and execute a variety of sensory methodologies (e.g., tetrads, descriptive analysis, and other discrimination or analytical tests).
• Obtain samples, prepare food products, and execute cook procedures according to established protocols.
• Assemble testing materials and supplies required for each evaluation.
• Ensure all preparation procedures are properly documented and aligned with SOPs.
• Support panel implementation by preparing samples, staging materials, and assisting with post-session clean-up.
• Collaborate with scientists to ensure testing design, execution, and documentation meet project requirements.

Laboratory Operations & Support

• Maintain laboratory cleanliness, organization, and good housekeeping practices.
• Order and manage inventory of supplies to ensure uninterrupted testing.
• Document testing procedures, deviations, and outcomes with accuracy and attention to detail.
• Follow all SOPs to maintain testing integrity, repeatability, and compliance.
• Work independently and collaboratively within the sensory team to support departmental priorities.
• Prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment to minimize downtime and ensure timely test execution.
• Communicate clearly and professionally with scientists, panelists, and team members.
• Support additional departmental sensory or testing needs as required.

Required Qualifications

• 35 college credits/CEUs in math/science
• 6 years of laboratory experience, preferably in the food industry
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook
• Excellent analytical, mathematical, writing, and attention to detail skills
• Demonstrated ability to make decisions and work with minimal supervision
• Basic laboratory and food preparation skills; strong housekeeping practices
• Strong interpersonal skills and flexibility in managing shifting priorities and tight deadlines
• Strong planning, organization, and multi-tasking capabilities
• Demonstrated ability to delegate effectively
• Ability to perform moderate physical work over prolonged periods while standing and lift up to 50 pounds
• Excellent attendance
• Ability to maintain confidentiality

The pay range for this position is $26.31 - $39.48.

McCormick & Company is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

As a general policy, McCormick does not offer employment visa sponsorships upon hire or in the future.