Associate Research Scientist II - Consumer Product Research
Posting Start Date: 7/6/26
Posting Location: Ada (Grand Rapids), MI
Requisition ID: 42922
Job title: Associate Sensory & Consumer Research Scientist - Product Experiences & Insights
Department / Division: Product Experiences & Insights / Research and Development
Salary Ranges: $78,108/yr - $96,486/yr plus bonus
Location: Ada, MI (Onsite)
What we're looking for:Are you passionate about the science behind why consumers love certain foods and drinks? As our new Sensory and Consumer Research Scientist, you will be the scientific voice behind our product's taste and consumer experience within our Nutrition portfolio. You will play a pivotal role in ensuring our health and wellness products are not only effective but also enjoyable.
This is a dynamic role with two key focus areas. First, you'll lead our sensory science program, guiding product developers to perfect the taste, aroma, and texture of new formulations. Second, you'll manage consumer research studies with external partners, generating the scientific data needed to support the claims that resonate with our customers. You will be the bridge between the lab, our expert tasting panel, and the voice of the consumer.
A typical day may include:- Collaborating with cross-functional product development teams on new prototypes for our nutrition line.
- Designing and overseeing a sensory test with our dedicated 8-person descriptive panel.
- Developing a study plan including screening criteria and questionnaire design
- Analyzing data from a recent consumer study to validate a "great tasting" claim.
- Presenting findings and recommendations to project stakeholders.
This is a full-time, on-site role at our Ada, Michigan campus. Travel is minimal, estimated at less than 10%.
Required Qualifications:- A minimum of 1 years of professional experience in sensory science, consumer science, or product research within the food, beverage, or nutrition industry.
- Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Sensory Science, Psychology, or a related scientific field.
- Demonstrated experience designing and executing sensory testing methodologies (e.g., descriptive analysis, discriminatory tests like triangle tests).
- Experience in managing all phases of a consumer research project, from study design to data analysis and reporting.
Skills to Be Successful in the Role:- Data-Driven Insights: You are skilled in statistical analysis and can transform complex data into clear, actionable recommendations.
- Strategic Collaboration: You thrive on working with cross-functional teams, including R&D, Marketing, and Clinical Research, to achieve project goals.
- Strong Communicator: You can clearly articulate technical concepts to both scientific and non-scientific audiences.
- Project Management: You excel at managing multiple projects simultaneously, prioritizing tasks, and delivering results on time.
- Mentorship & Training: You have an aptitude for training others, whether it's helping a formulator understand taste profiles or guiding a sensory panel.
What's Special About this Team:You'll be part of a highly collaborative R&D organization within Amway, where consumer-driven insight and scientific rigor come together to shape products used by millions globally. The Product Experience & Insights team leads Consumer Product Research and plays a critical role across Nutrition (including food and beverage), Beauty, Home Care, and Wellness Devices turning consumer insights into best-in-class, science-backed products that drive both innovation and growth.
