Sensory Panel Leader

Overview

SAM Sensory and Consumer Research is hiring in Cork for a Sensory Panel Leader to support panel coordination and sensory data collection in a global FMCG research environment. The organisation works across food, beverages, cosmetics, personal care, and other consumer product categories, delivering tailored research outputs that help clients improve products and strengthen brands.

The role sits within a diverse international business backed by the Eurofins Group, and it offers the chance to work with a multidisciplinary team of sensory scientists, technologists, statisticians, psychologists, sociologists, marketeers, field managers, technicians, and other research professionals.

Role Summary

This position is focused on organising, training, and supervising sensory panels so that product evaluations are conducted consistently and the resulting data is reliable. The role supports panel quality, sample testing accuracy, and the delivery of useful insights for product development, quality control, and consumer research.

Key Duties

• Find, recruit, and train sensory panellists.
• Run daily panel sessions and make sure all procedures are followed correctly.
• Observe panellist performance and provide coaching to improve consistency and reliability.
• Conduct refresher sessions for existing panellists when needed.
• Review panel performance on a monthly basis.
• Help maintain a constructive, organised, and productive panel atmosphere.
• Keep training logs and competency records current and accurate.
• Ensure samples are prepared and presented correctly, with proper environmental conditions in place.
• Use sensory systems and software such as Fizz Acquisition and EyeQuestion.
• Enter, organise, and safeguard sensory data accurately.
• Maintain testing spaces, equipment, and cleanliness in line with SOPs.
• Support ongoing improvements to sensory procedures and supporting documentation.
• Promote ethical testing practices and unbiased evaluation conditions.

Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree in food science or a closely related subject.
• At least 1–2 years of experience in sensory work or quality assurance.
• Strong communication and interpersonal ability to guide panellists and work with internal teams.
• Excellent attention to detail and a strong focus on data accuracy.
• Comfortable working in a fast-moving, detail-heavy environment.
• Experience with sensory software and an understanding of basic statistical ideas such as ANOVA and PCA is advantageous.
• A patient, empathetic, and clear communication style.
• Confidence in giving feedback and leading group discussions.
• An analytical approach with genuine interest in sensory science and human perception.
• Flexibility to adapt to shifting priorities and project requirements.

About the Employer

SAM is a leading international sensory and consumer research company with 19 advanced facilities across France, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, Spain, the United Kingdom, Morocco, China, and the USA. The company also operates through a network of approved partners in more than 65 countries.

The business focuses on delivering practical, action-oriented guidance that helps clients create memorable products and brands. It describes itself as a collaborative and development-focused workplace where employees are encouraged to contribute ideas and grow throughout their careers.

Additional Information

This is a full-time, onsite role based in Cork, County Cork, Ireland.

Interested candidates can contact the employer at [email protected] for more information or to apply.