Scientist, R&D Panel Leader & Descriptive Sensory

Job Description

Job Purpose

TheSensory Descriptive Panel Leaderis responsibleforsensory descriptive panel research for assigned Kraft Heinz product categories. This role owns daytoday 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 rigoroustimely and aligned sensory data and recommendations.

EssentialFunctions &Responsibilities

• Plan andconductdescriptive sensory projectsparticipatein development of projectobjectives 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 andfacilitatingpanel sessions.

• Moderate panel discussions and consensus sessions objectively and without bias while ensuring adherence toestablishedsensory protocols.

• Recruit train rescreen motivate and manage panelists tomaintaina qualified reliable and highperforming 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 crossfunctional teams.

• Monitor panel performance using statistical tools and implement calibration retraining or corrective actions as needed to ensure data quality and consistency.

• Develop andmaintainsensoryreferencelibraryincluding reference standards consumablessample prep proceduresevaluationproceduresandproper 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

Expected Experience& Required Skills

• Bachelors degree in Sensory Science Food Science Statistics Market Research or a related field with 23 years of relevant experience; or an Associate of Science with a sensoryand consumersciencecertification and equivalent experience.

• Strong knowledge of sensory methodologies including descriptive analysisand discriminationtesting.

• 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 () including test setup dashboards and reporting.

• Proven capability to evaluate and improve panel performance throughapplicationof statistical monitoring tools.

• Strong interpersonal facilitation and communication skills with the ability to influence and collaborate across functionsand manage the group dynamics of sensory panels.

• Excellent organizational project management prioritization andtimemanagementskills; 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 ateambasedenvironment.

• 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.

Work Environment & Schedule

This positionoperatesprimarily in a hybrid work environment and is based at theKraft Heinz R&D Innovation Center inWarrendale PA. Our hybrid model provides flexibility based on business needs allowing employees to work virtually up to two days per week with an expectation to work on-site at least three days per week at the Warrendale Innovation Center.

Physical Requirements

Physicaldemandsinclude but not limited to

• Ability to lift 20lbs

Our Total Rewards philosophy is to provide a meaningful and flexible spectrum of programs that equitably support our diverse workforce and their families and complement Kraft Heinz strategy and values.

New Hire Base Salary Range:

Bonus: This position is eligible for a performance-based bonus as provided by the plan terms and governing documents.

The compensation offered will take into account internal equity and may vary depending on the candidates geographic region job-related knowledge skills and experience among other factors

Benefits: Coverage for employees (and their eligible dependents) through affordable access to healthcare protection and savingfor the future we offer plans tailored to meet you and your familys needs. Coveragefor benefits will be in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans and associated governing plan documents.

Wellbeing: We offer events resources and learning opportunities that inspire aphysical social emotional and financial well-being lifestyle for our employees and their families.

Youll be able to participate in a variety of benefits and wellbeing programs that may vary by role country region union status and other employment status factors for example:

• Physical - Medical Prescription Drug Dental Vision Screenings/Assessments

• Social - Paid Time Off Company Holidays Leave of Absence Flexible Work Arrangements Recognition Training

• Emotional Employee Assistance Program Wellbeing Programs Family Support Programs

• Financial 401kLife Accidental Death & Dismemberment Disability

Location(s)

Kraft Heinz is an Equal Opportunity Employer Underrepresented Ethnic Minority Groups/Women/Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity and other protected classes.In order to ensure reasonable accommodation for protected individuals applicants that require accommodation in the job application process may contact for assistance.