Sensory Scientist

Sensory Scientist

Preston Full-Time 49000 - 67000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead sensory testing and product development for innovative beverages.
  • Company: Join Talking Rain, a vibrant company creating better-for-you drinks.
  • Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, generous vacation, and health benefits.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in the beverage industry with your sensory expertise.
  • Qualifications: Bachelor's in Food Science or related field; 4+ years of sensory experience.
  • Other info: Dynamic team culture with opportunities for growth and innovation.

The predicted salary is between 49000 - 67000 £ per year.

Sensory Scientist page is loaded## Sensory Scientistlocations: Preston, WAtime type: Full timeposted on: Posted 3 Days Agojob requisition id: R559**WHO WE ARE**We’re Talking Rain Beverage Company, we create better-for-you beverages featuring great flavors and colors from natural sources. We live life in full flavor and believe the world should too. We create connections with every sip of our iconic Sparkling Ice, Sparkling Ice Caffeine, Sparkling Ice Energy, Popwell and MIXT.When it comes to success, we know we’re only as strong as our team. That\’s why we\’re an equal-opportunity employer. We value diversity and practice inclusivity, hiring great people who enhance our company.**Our Rain Makers are our most important asset. That’s why we invest in them with** **that reflect just how much we value them.**Our Research & Development team is proud of where we’ve been, but more interested in where we’re going. This team drives creativity, growing our portfolio of products. Here, you will apply your sensory expertise to lead consumer sensory testing, guide product development, and translate insights into opportunities for exceptional product experiences.Reports to: Manager, Research & DevelopmentDirect Reports: N/ALocation: Onsite at our Preston, WA office 5 days a week*\\*While we strive to offer flexibility, this role also requires it. There may be times when you\’re expected to come onsite outside your typical in-office days to support special projects, team events, or other business needs.*Annual Bonus Potential: 7% – Eligibility is based on the company hitting annual financial targets.Base Salary: $98,000 – $121,000 (depending on experience)**Note**: New hires typically receive between minimum and midpoint, however, we may go slightly higher based on experience, internal equity and market.* Design, execute, and analyze all internal and external sensory tests to support product development. Independently create standardized reports, develop clear written recommendations, presentations, graphs, and visualizations to communicate insights to guide cross-functional decision-making.* Establish, train, and maintain internal sensory panels, ensuring consistency, reliability, and alignment with testing objectives. Deliver training to internal and external teams as needed.* Demonstrate strong initiative and prioritization skills, with effective time management, organization, and problem-solving abilities.* Maintain an organized internal sensory lab, supporting daily operations, efficiency, and ensuring compliance with food safety and quality standards.* Establish cross-functional partnerships to define sensory program objectives, align on deliverables, and support product development goals.* Manage relationships with external partners and consultants to support sensory goals.* Lead the assessment and implementation of new sensory research methods to enhance capabilities, drive efficiency, and improve business performance. Help identify and screen emerging technologies that enable improved sensory experiences and support innovation.* Ensure food safety, quality, and SQF practices are always followed, notifying immediate manager of any food safety and/or quality issues.* Complete other responsibilities as assigned.We create connections with every sip. And we’ve found a lot of value in in-person connections! As a young, fast-growing company, we’re still creating and refining the systems that will fuel our future growth. **Onsite presence is beyond collaboration, and here is why onsite presence matters:*** **Supports ad hoc and rapid-turn testing** – Being onsite allows flexibility to conduct unplanned tests and provide real-time sensory input as new formulations or adjustments arise.* **Enables immediate cross-functional collaboration** – Proximity to R&D, QA, and Operations teams allows for quick alignment and faster iteration on product improvements.* **Drives innovation through real-time observation** – Hands-on evaluation and face-to-face collaboration spark new insights and more agile decision-making during development.**WHAT YOU BRING*** Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Sensory Science, or related field required; Master’s degree preferred. Equivalent experience considered.* 4+ years of food sensory experience, including applied statistics and testing methodologies.* 2+ years in product development preferred, ideally in the beverage industry.* Strong organizational, communication and problem-solving skills.* Working knowledge of food science principles, sensory methodologies, food manufacturing* Ability to work independently, collaborate with stakeholders, manage multiple priorities, and build cross-functional relationships.*Please note, this role is safety sensitive. This means that as part of your core responsibilities you will be regularly responsible for your own safety and/or the safety of others (e.g., driving on behalf of the company, working in a warehouse/plant environment).***Rain Makers** are people who are **accountable**, **curious**, and **inclusive**. We hold ourselves ***accountable*** and recognize room for growth while openly accepting feedback. We embrace change to deliver progressive results. Rain Makers don’t wait for answers – we go find them. ***Curiosity*** is part of what makes us so successful. Sometimes we push back, productively challenging the status quo. We promote ***inclusivity***. Valuing communication and respect, ensuring everyone has a seat at the table. We are an approachable bunch, building and fostering relationships with people of all backgrounds. **WHAT WE OFFER**Nothing makes a great job even better than throwing in a few perks! All **regular**, **full-time** Rain Makers are equipped with everything they need to maintain their health and well-being. That means things like…* Three Weeks of Vacation per calendar year. And that’s just to start! Spend some time with us, and you’ll accrue an additional week every few years, depending on your exempt status!* FMLA qualifying Rain Makers receive six weeks of paid parental leave. Parents get to spend time at home bonding with their new addition (whether it arrives by birth, fostering, or adoption). For birth mothers, additional time is provided for medical leave. Depending on the state in which you reside, additional time may also be available for parents who do not require medical leave.* Flexibility Stipend. For eligible Rain Makers, spend this extra monthly stipend as you wish, but know it’s intended to contribute to things like your phone, internet or other business uses while working remotely or needs outside of normal working hours.* Relocation: Relocation Available (when available)* Onsite and Hybrid Rain Makers: Get paid to carpool! Drive to work with another Rain Maker every week at least 2X a week and receive mileage reimbursement.* 401k with Immediate Vesting. With matched contributions and investment customization, we\’ll help build a plan to reach your goals.* Fitness Reimbursements. We\’re all about going the extra mile, so we provide reimbursements for community events and competitions like fun runs, triathlons, and cycling tours.* + Rain Makers may also enjoy access to our on-site gym in Preston complete with a personal trainer 2 days per week.* Medical/Dental/Vision. Not only do we offer it, but our plans are excellent and flexible to your needs. And one is even free for our Rain Makers!* Vehicle Program –* + Field Sales Specialist – Mileage is reimbursed at the IRS rate + Field Sales Managers and Market Managers – Company car or vehicle stipend included! + Regional Sales Managers and Sales Directors – We use the leader in vehicle reimbursement solutions, Motus. This program provides a monthly fixed and variable rate that adheres to IRS guidelines for the business use of personal vehicles.Please note, eligibility for our full benefits package #J-18808-Ljbffr

Sensory Scientist employer: TalkingRain Beverage Company

At Talking Rain Beverage Company, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values our Rain Makers as our most important asset. Located in Preston, WA, we foster a vibrant work culture that encourages creativity and collaboration, offering generous benefits such as three weeks of vacation, flexible work stipends, and comprehensive health plans. With a strong commitment to employee growth and inclusivity, we provide opportunities for professional development and innovation, making it a rewarding place to build your career in the beverage industry.
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Contact Detail:

TalkingRain Beverage Company Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Sensory Scientist

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the beverage industry, especially those who work at Talking Rain. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info about the company culture and what they really value in a Sensory Scientist.

✨Tip Number 2

Show off your sensory skills! If you get the chance, bring examples of your past work or even conduct a mini sensory test during your interview. This hands-on approach will demonstrate your expertise and passion for the role.

✨Tip Number 3

Be ready to discuss trends! Stay updated on the latest in food science and sensory methodologies. Being able to chat about emerging technologies or innovative testing methods will show that you're not just qualified, but also forward-thinking.

✨Tip Number 4

Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the Talking Rain team. Don’t miss out!

We think you need these skills to ace Sensory Scientist

Sensory Testing
Food Science Principles
Applied Statistics
Testing Methodologies
Product Development
Organisational Skills
Communication Skills
Problem-Solving Skills
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Time Management
Training and Development
Food Safety Compliance
Relationship Management
Innovation in Sensory Research

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for sensory science and beverage innovation shine through. We want to see how your passion aligns with our mission of creating better-for-you beverages!

Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in food sensory and product development. Use specific examples that demonstrate your skills and how they relate to the role. We love seeing how you can contribute to our team!

Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications.

Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!

How to prepare for a job interview at TalkingRain Beverage Company

✨Know Your Sensory Science

Brush up on your sensory science knowledge and be ready to discuss how it applies to product development. Be prepared to share specific examples of sensory tests you've designed or analysed, as well as the insights gained from them.

✨Showcase Your Collaboration Skills

Talking Rain values cross-functional partnerships, so highlight your experience working with different teams. Share stories that demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively and build relationships, especially in a fast-paced environment.

✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Abilities

Prepare to discuss challenges you've faced in previous roles and how you overcame them. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers, focusing on how your problem-solving skills led to successful outcomes.

✨Emphasise Your Curiosity and Accountability

Talking Rain looks for 'Rain Makers' who are curious and accountable. Be ready to talk about how you've taken initiative in your past roles, sought out new information, and embraced feedback to improve your work and contribute to team success.

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