Job Title: Insights Analyst
Job Description
The Insights Analyst conducts product and consumer research and analyzes resulting data to optimize product acceptance and ensure ongoing product quality. This role spans all aspects of sensory science, experimental design, and consumer insight from a product-focused perspective, with a strong emphasis on data analysis, consumer panels, and collaboration with cross-functional partners. It is a central, technical position that offers meaningful, visible work, broad cross-functional exposure, and excellent work–life balance.
Responsibilities
- Conduct product and consumer research to support optimized product acceptance and ongoing product quality.
- Organize all sensory and consumer tests and ensure appropriate personnel resources are available to execute each test.
- Efficiently execute internal tests in a scientific manner, following established experimental design and sensory science principles.
- Organize and conduct shelf-life testing for products, documenting methods and results accurately.
- Learn and apply a variety of product testing and data analysis software tools to support sensory and consumer research.
- Perform statistical analysis and interpretation of traditional sensory data, or quickly learn and apply appropriate statistical methodologies.
- Determine when, why, and how to use discrimination, descriptive, and affective sensory tests, and select appropriate methods for each project.
- Develop and refine questionnaires to understand consumer behavior and capture meaningful consumer insights.
- Train technicians on product preparation, test execution, and adherence to sensory testing protocols.
- Analyze sensory data and write clear, concise technical reports that summarize test results and provide actionable recommendations.
- Develop, expand, and maintain databases of panelists and sensory data to support ongoing and future research.
- Maintain laboratory stock supplies, organization, and cleanliness to ensure a safe and efficient lab environment.
- Support the manager and senior analyst in test design, execution, and completion of sensory and consumer studies.
- Support the Sensory Evaluator training program at plants, co-manufacturers, suppliers, and the shared service center by working with sensory team members.
- Assist in developing tools and documentation for sensory training materials and programs.
- Help develop specific descriptor lists for given product categories in collaboration with cross-functional teams.
- Monitor panel performance and provide feedback to ensure high-quality, reliable sensory data.
- Train panelists on references for global lexicon and descriptive analysis panels to ensure consistent evaluations.
- Support the creation, implementation, and maintenance of documentation related to sensory and consumer testing.
- Collaborate with quality operations teams to implement appropriate documents and standards for training materials.
- Accurately format documents using advanced tools in Microsoft Word and Excel to ensure professional, consistent reporting and documentation.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with joint venture partners, internal support functions, and relevant professional associations.
- Streamline and maintain an organized file and document management system for sensory and consumer research projects.
- Manage administrative aspects of multiple simultaneous projects, including scheduling, tracking progress, and coordinating resources.
- Contribute to building and supporting consumer panels as part of a global brand-focused team.
- Work collaboratively with team members and cross-functional partners to support innovation in food and beverage products.
Essential Skills
- Approximately 3 years of experience in consumer or market research, with a focus on product and consumer insights.
- 1–3 years of experience in product development or quality assurance within the food industry.
- 1–3 years of experience in data analysis, including handling and interpreting sensory and consumer data.
- Hands-on experience working in a laboratory environment, preferably in food science or sensory science.
- Strong background in food science, sensory science, or a closely related discipline.
- Proficiency in data analysis and interpretation of traditional sensory data using appropriate statistical methods.
- Understanding of discrimination, descriptive, and affective sensory tests, including when, why, and how to use each method.
- Ability to develop effective questionnaires to capture consumer behavior and preferences.
- Strong skills in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Word and Excel, including advanced formatting capabilities.
- Ability to learn and use product testing and data analysis software efficiently.
- Strong written communication skills to prepare clear, understandable technical reports with actionable recommendations.
- Organizational skills to manage multiple tests, projects, and documentation simultane