Conducts and compiles the results of sensory analysis of finished product to ensure compliance with company, supplier, and product quality, safety, and sanitation standards.

• Assists QA Sensory Technologist with scheduling and conducting sensory panels on finished products. Compiles sensory data to ensure compliance with product quality standards. Notifies the QA Sensory Technologist and/or management of any trends or results outside of release limits. (52%)
• Attends product cuttings at customer or other outside sensory evaluation centers, where required. Some travel is required. (3%)
•  Assists QA Sensory Technologist with the target/reference sample program, which requires monitoring the samples selected for target/reference use, sending samples to customers for target selection, and providing samples to other liquid suppliers within the system. (10%)
•  Performs analytical and sensory testing for shelf-life studies on new products and at customer’s request. Assists QA Sensory Technologist with compiling the data for the shelf-life report, and keeps management and/or the product development group apprised of results (especially in the absence of QA Sensory Technologist). (15%)
•  Assists QA Sensory Technologist with records, logs of test data, reports, specifications, and other quality procedures to ensure availability of accurate and thorough information. (10%)
• Assists in customer concern investigations, including evaluation of retains, returned product, and raw materials to help determine concern validity and investigate root cause. (10%)
• Assists QA Sensory Technologist with conducting sensory training for internal panelists. Works with the training department to ensure correct personnel receive initial and annual refresher training for continued compliance with internal and customer programs.
  
• Works with product development on applicable sensory tests, finished product sensory specifications, and other related activities, where required.
• Adheres to food safety, quality and legal compliance. In the event of a crisis (i.e. product recall, fire, etc.) delegate responsibilities as outlined in the Crisis Communications and Management Guide.
• Adheres to safety, health and environmental standards of the facility.
• Performs other related and assigned duties as necessary.

Leadership/Management Responsibility

Not applicable.

Performance Categories

• Productivity/quality standards:  test methodology, accuracy and reliability
• Productivity/quality standards:  accuracy, timeliness, thoroughness
• Productivity/quality standards:  safety audits
• Domestic and international regulatory compliance
• Teamwork within the department and across departments
• Project/assignment standards
• Customer satisfaction
• Safety standards and procedures:  food
• Safety standards and procedures:  laboratory equipment and procedures

Education/Certification:

Bachelor’s degree in food science, chemistry, microbiology, or related field of science from an accredited college or university

Experience:

1 to 3 years of relevant work experience, with an understanding of food safety and regulations.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Knowledge of (B/basic; J/journey; E/expert):

• Food safety concepts and techniques (J)
• HACCP programs and related food safety regulations and processes (J)
• Food microbiology (B)
• Food testing concepts and techniques (J)
• Food chemistry (B)
• Raw materials/product interaction (B)
• Sensory Analysis / Evaluation  (B)
• PC word processing/spreadsheet software (J)

Skill and ability to:

• Work independently
• Communicate and coordinate effectively with internal and external customers verbally and in writing
• Read and process written information with a high degree of accuracy
• Perform a variety of food safety tests
• Work in a laboratory environment (some lifting of product cases may be required)
• Work effectively in a general business environment, with a focus on high levels of quality and customer service
• Act in accordance with GSF’s Values and Creed