About the Role
This position implements and administers sensory testing for various Hormel products, involving scheduling, setup, sample distribution, result analysis, and reporting. It also includes recruiting panelists, managing databases, and maintaining the Sensory Kitchen equipment and supplies.
Responsibilities
- Implements and administers sensory testing of various Hormel products.
- Schedules sensory panels, sets up sensory tests in software, distributes samples to panelists, analyzes results, and shares results with Hormel brand teams.
- Executes sensory tests using complex procedures in a safe and sanitary manner.
- Recruits employees and/or community members for sensory evaluation panels.
- Manages the panelist database, recruits new panelists, and recruits panelists for sensory tests.
- Responsible for proper and safe operation and maintenance of all relevant equipment in the Sensory Kitchen.
- Maintains panel booths and computers, secures and maintains necessary supplies, and maintains all relevant equipment in the sensory kitchen.
Requirements
- Demonstrates excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Demonstrates strong organizational skills and the ability to work independently.
- Capable of working independently with minimal supervision.
- Demonstrates analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Proficient in the Microsoft Windows environment including Microsoft Office platform (Excel, Outlook, Word, PowerPoint).
- Proficient in conducting virtual meetings like Microsoft Teams.
- Capable of working several hours in a 38°F cooler or for short periods in a 0°F freezer.
- Capable of standing for extended periods.
- Capable of regularly lifting 20-30 lbs. and occasionally up to 50 lbs.
- Must not now, or at any time in the future, require sponsorship for a work visa.
- Must be authorized to work in the United States for any employer.
- Must be 18 years of age or older.
Skills
- Microsoft Windows
- Microsoft Office
- Excel
- Outlook
- Word
- PowerPoint
- Microsoft Teams
- Scientific aptitude
- Food science experience
- Lab management software
- Sensory software
- Servsafe certification
- Metric system knowledge
Location
- Austin, MN
Work Type
- Full-time
Experience Level
- Technician
- Senior Technician
Salary/Compensations
- $20.25 - $30.75 per hour
Benefits
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
- Discretionary annual merit increases
- Profit sharing
- 401(k) with employer match
- Stock purchase plan
- Earned paid time off
- FREE two-year community/technical college tuition for children of employees
About the Company
- Hormel Foods Corporation, based in Austin, Minnesota, is a global branded food company with approximately $12 billion in annual revenue.
- Brands include PLANTERS®, SKIPPY®, SPAM®, HORMEL® NATURAL CHOICE®, APPLEGATE®, WHOLLY®, HORMEL® BLACK LABEL®, COLUMBUS®, JENNIE-O® and more than 30 other beloved brands.
- The company is a member of the S&P 500 Index and the S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats.
- Recognized as one of the best companies to work for by U.S. News & World Report, one of America’s most responsible companies by Newsweek, and one of the World’s Best Companies by TIME magazine.
- Received numerous awards and accolades for corporate responsibility and community service efforts.
Equal Opportunity
- Hormel Foods provides equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race; color; sex; gender identity; sexual orientation; religious practices and observances; national origin; pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; status as a protected veteran or spouse/family member of a protected veteran; or disability.
