Sensory Quality Specialist

This role is aligned to the Coffee Operating Unit

Location: Spartanburg 2 – 3220 Moore Duncan Hwy, Suite 100, Gate A, Moore, SC 29369

Shift & Schedule: This is a full-time, salaried position working Monday–Friday during normal business hours while supporting a 24/7 manufacturing operation. Flexibility to support off-shift and weekend operations as business needs arise is expected..

The Sensory Quality Specialist works independently to support the preparation of ingredients and finished goods for sensory evaluation, testing, data entry, tracking, reporting, and documentation. This role provides general administrative support to ensure team readiness and supports sensory staff and leaders in the evaluation of ingredients and existing products, as well as compliance with established quality standards and protocols across multiple production sites.

The Sensory Quality Technician II also participates in sensory evaluations of ingredients and finished goods and helps maintain a World Class Sensory Lab.

What You Will Do

• Administer sensory testing of ingredients and finished goods while maintaining daily operations of a World Class Sensory Lab.
• Coordinate the receipt and review of samples from multiple production sites and ingredient suppliers for testing and evaluation.
• Register samples in existing tracking systems, build tests, recruit internal tasters, and execute sensory panels in a timely manner.
• Participate in daily sensory activities, including ingredient evaluation and tasting of finished goods.
• Follow up on sensory findings with appropriate teams and stakeholders.
• Prepare and set up samples, equipment, and rooms for sensory tasting events, including analytical and physical evaluations and sample preparation.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment while following all safety policies and housekeeping practices.
• Support sensory staff and leaders with samples, testing, and other activities as needed.
• Support sensory activities and training sessions related to ingredients and finished goods.
• Calibrate and maintain laboratory equipment, including moisture analyzers, scales, brewers, thermometers, pH meters, and other sensory and analytical equipment.
• Operate analytical laboratory equipment such as sample roasters, moisture meters, brewers, grinders, Agtron, Mocon, and related equipment.
• Perform standardized work involving repetitive tasks and motions while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
• Support Continuous Process Improvement initiatives and follow established Manufacturing best practices.

• Targeted annual compensation range of $80,000–$110,000.
• This is a salaried, exempt position paid biweekly. Compensation is competitive and commensurate with experience. 

Benefits (Effective Day One, Where Applicable):

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance

• Disability Coverage

• Paid Time Off (including vacation and sick leave)

• 401(k) with company match

• Tuition Reimbursement

• Mileage Reimbursement

Benefits are subject to eligibility requirements and applicable collective bargaining agreements.

• Associate degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, or a related field required; Bachelor's degree preferred.
• 3+ years of related sensory experience and/or equivalent education and experience required.
• Food industry, coffee manufacturing, or sensory training experience may be considered in lieu of formal degree requirements.
• Demonstrated sensory skills, including the ability to differentiate and describe a variety of aroma and flavor attributes.
• Willingness and desire to learn and become certified in sensory and tasting skills.
• Basic computer skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Outlook, and Word.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to multitask, manage time effectively, and work independently with minimal supervision.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow standardized processes and procedures.
• Ability to uphold safety standards, participate in Continuous Process Improvement, and follow Manufacturing best practices.

Keurig Dr Pepper (Nasdaq: KDP) is a leading beverage company with more than 150 owned, licensed and partner brands that meet a wide range of needs and occasions. Our North American refreshment beverage business holds leadership positions across carbonated soft drinks, water, juice and mixers with a portfolio of iconic brands such as Dr Pepper®, Canada Dry®, Mott’s®, A&W®, Peñafiel®, GHOST®, 7UP®, Snapple®, Clamato® and Core Hydration®. Our global coffee business spans more than 100 markets and includes the leading Keurig® single‑serve brewing system in the U.S. and Canada, along with powerhouse brands such as Peet’s, L’OR and Jacobs, and other regional coffee leaders. Our more than 50,000 employees aim to enhance the experience of every beverage and coffee occasion while making a positive impact for people, communities and the planet.

We strive to be an employer of choice, providing a culture and opportunities that empower our team to grow and develop. We offer robust benefits to support your health and wellness as well as your personal and financial well-being. We also provide employee programs designed to enhance your professional growth and development, while ensuring you feel valued, inspired and appreciated at work.

Whatever your area of expertise, at KDP you can be a part of a team that’s proud of its brands, partnerships, innovation and growth. Will you join us?

Keurig Dr Pepper is an equal opportunity employer and recruits qualified applicants and advances in employment its employees without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability or association with a person with a disability, medical condition, genetic information, ethnic or national origin, marital status, veteran status, or any other status protected by law.

A.I. Disclosure: 
KDP uses artificial intelligence to assist with initial resume screening and candidate matching. This technology helps us efficiently identify candidates whose qualifications align with our open roles.  AI does not make hiring decisions; all decisions throughout the hiring process are made by talent acquisition team members.  If you prefer not to have your application processed using artificial intelligence, you may opt out by emailing your resume and qualifications directly to kdpjobs@kdrp.com in lieu of clicking Apply. In order for your application to be considered and opted out of AI, you must include the words "AI Opt-Out" and either job title and location or Job ID # in the email subject line in your email application.