Sensory Scientist

Joining King's Hawaiian makes you part of our ohana (family). We are a family-owned business for over seventy years, respecting our roots while thinking about our future as we continue to grow and care for our customers and the communities we serve. Ourohana members build an environment of inclusivity as they freely collaborate, pursue learning through curiosity, and explore innovation as critical thinkers. Beyond that, we are also passionate about supporting the long-term health and well-being of our employees and their families. If you're excited to rise with our team, come and join our `ohana!

At KING'S HAWAIIAN we create unique and irresistible foods that people love beyond reason. We are not in the business of copying mainstream products or pursuing short-term trends. Our goal is to create new, long-term value to market with consumer-led innovation ideas. This role will report to the Director, Product Development and be a part of a multi-disciplinary Innovation & Commercialization team with a start-up type culture. This individual will be responsible for implementing a sensory program and best practices at King's Hawaiian. A primary responsibility will be to lead and conduct sensory analysis for new products from gold from gold standard through launch. In addition, the individual will work closely with the VP of Food Science and Quality to uphold sensory and quality standards for existing products. The resulting outcome will be improved existing products, quality new products, and new opportunities for business growth.

Who Are You?

The Sensory Scientist is a problem solver, analyst, researcher, and a collaborator. Your data driven approach and problem solving will help ensure our irresistible standards of existing and new products.

The following characteristics describe you perfectly:

Curious - you break boundaries and do not settle for the status quo. You have an instinctive desire to always dig deeper. Your curiosity leads you to think differently and try new things. Persistent - you do not settle for mediocracy and have an unmatched determination to solve your complex problems. You always strive for perfection and cannot rest until you've carried out your mission. Courageous- you like to jump and take risks! You recognize that the future cannot be shaped without taking leaps forward. You trust your beliefs and see every failure as an opportunity. Self-starter- the world of innovation and ambiguity does not scare you. You know how to self-manage. You are a leader and initiator. You do not wait around for someone else to step up. Foodie and a Scientist - you LOVE food. Food is one of your passions in life. You love to try new foods, experience cuisines from different cultures, and gather with others to break bread. You also love science and are an expert in describing food attributes and translating those into data-oriented reports.

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Leadership and Training:

• Develop a sensory program and lead training sessions for cross functional teams and panelists ensuring continuous improvement in sensory evaluation capabilities.

• Provide mentorship and guidance to other food scientists and quality professionals.

Study Design and Execution:

• Develop and implement robust sensory evaluation protocols, considering factors such as study design, sample size, and statistical power.

• Design discriminating tests to identify key sensory attributes and preferences in target consumer groups.

• Oversee the execution of complex sensory tests, including discrimination, descriptive, and consumer tests.

Data Analysis and Interpretation:

• Utilize advanced statistical methods to analyze sensory data, including analysis of variance (ANOVA), principal component analysis (PCA), and other multivariate techniques.

• Provide in-depth interpretation of results, identifying actionable insights for product improvement and innovation.

Instrumentation and Technology:

• Evaluate and implement state-of-the-art sensory evaluation tools and equipment, such as electronic nose devices, texture analyzers, and AI-based sensory platforms.

• Stay abreast of emerging technologies in sensory science and recommend their integration into our research processes.

Cross-Functional Collaboration:

• Collaborate closely with product development, marketing, and quality assurance teams to align sensory goals with overall product objectives.

• Engage with external partners, including sensory testing agencies and academic institutions, to leverage additional expertise.

Documentation and Reporting:

• Prepare comprehensive reports detailing study design, methodology, results, and recommendations.

• Maintain an organized and accessible database of sensory evaluation studies.

BASIC QUALIFICATION (EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE)

• Bachelor's degree in food science, Food Technology, or a closely related field from an accredited 4-year college with a strong focus on sensory science. Higher education (e.g., Master of Science or PhD) in Sensory Science, Food Science, Food Technology, or a closely related field is preferred.

• More than 4 years of hands-on experience in sensory science within the food, beverage, or consumer goods industry.

• Demonstrated success in leading and executing sensory evaluation projects.

ADDITIONAL QUALIFICATIONS (JOB SKILLS, ABILITIES, KNOWLEDGE)

• Proficient in statistical analysis software (e.g., R, SAS) and sensory evaluation software.

• In-depth knowledge of sensory science methodologies, including proficiency discrimination and descriptive analysis.

• Exceptional communication skills with the ability to convey complex sensory insights to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

• Proven ability to collaborate effectively within cross-functional teams. Creative problem-solving skills and a track record of contributing to product innovation through sensory insights.

• Ability to think strategically and apply innovative approaches to sensory study design.

We work in a hybrid environment where we are in the office Monday - Wednesday and remote on Thursday and Friday.

The salary range for this role is $90,000 to $130,000, where the final offer will be based on several factors.

King's Hawaiian is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for our ohana.