COMPANY DESCRIPTION The PLANeT Partnership, a joint venture between PepsiCo and Beyond Meat, has joined to develop, produce and market innovative snack and beverage products made from plant-based protein to help save the planet. We are looking for driven and entrepreneurial professionals to join the new team, supported by two major CPG brands!! The joint venture leverages Beyond Meat's leading technology in plant-based protein development and PepsiCo's world-class marketing and commercial capabilities to create and scale new snacks and beverages. OVERVIEW As an integral part of the PLANeT Partnership team in our new Headquarters located in El Segundo, California, you will unlock new categories and product lines that will inspire positive choices for both people and the planet. The Sensory Scientist works in close cross-functional collaboration with Product Development and senior leadership within the Center of Excellence group, to bring new PLANeT Partnership innovations to life. This dynamic role will involve the planning, execution and buildout of an internal sensory platform for our small and growing team. The first stage of this position will involve the buildout and training of our internal panelists to assist in sensory capabilities as we launch new products and move into our new headquarters in El Segundo. The second stage will involve working with our scientists and product developers to connect sensory tests with external vendors and organizations for a more robust sensory program.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Serve as sensory panel training expert for our small and growing team, working with scientists, engineers and corporate to facilitate sensory panels
Work with internal team members to identify sensory acuity traits to define taste sensitivities, flavor and texture preferences to create effective training and panel sessions.
Define and execute appropriate sensory testing to support R&D Process and Product Development to align internal employee product expectations
Provide technical support of sensory & functionality validation for product development
Conduct more in depth sensory training for internal panelists as the team grows, not limited to descriptive analysis and others
Ensure panelist performance through appropriate sensory testing and follow-up training
Identify external sensory panel options and execute external sensory tests as needed and as the business and team grows
Identify and recommend new sensory methods to support project deliverables and deliver business impact
Manage internal relationships through clear communication, aligning schedules to conduct sensory groups in the short term and external collaborations as needed in the long term
Contribute to a safe and environmentally friendly workplace with team spirits
QUALIFICATIONS
1-3 years of experience in Food Sensory with proven track record in group sensory training and internal collaborations
Minimum BSc degree in Food Science, Sensory Science or related field
Experience in sensory analysis of food and beverage materials and finished products for the CPG market
Understanding of descriptive analysis
Experience working with a growing team to evolve sensory program requirements over time is a plus
Demonstrated capability in coordinating multi-functional sensory projects, as well as external and internal teams is a plus
Food formulation experience within food or plant-based beverages is a plus
The PLANeT Partnership is an equal employment opportunity employer. Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, creed, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, ancestry, veteran status, marital status, gender identify, sexual orientation, national origin, liability for military service, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. If you are interested in learning the status of your application, please note you will be contacted directly by the appropriate human resources contact person if you are selected for further consideration. The PLANeT Partnership reserves the right to defer or close a vacancy at any time.