Sensory Technician I

Job Description

The Sensory Technician will prepare for and execute sensory studies at the Food Innovation Center, including serving food and beverage samples, cooking and preparing samples, and maintaining lab organization and cleanliness. Additional responsibilities include receiving samples, interacting with clients, monitoring panelist attendance, supporting a trained sensory panel, and developing programs to grow the consumer database. The Technician will regularly use Compusense software to manage panelist communication and continuously improve panelist management processes. As needed, the Technician will also support product development tasks involving food analysis, using kitchen equipment, food analysis tools (e.g., pH meters), and Microsoft Office.

Full Consideration Date: May 15, 2026 

Work Unit Description  

The Sensory Technician I will prepare for and execute sensory studies at the Food Innovation Center, including serving food and beverage samples, cooking and preparing samples, and maintaining lab organization and cleanliness. Additional responsibilities include receiving samples, interacting with clients, monitoring panelist attendance, supporting a trained sensory panel, and developing programs to grow the consumer database. The Technician will regularly use Compusense software to manage panelist communication and continuously improve panelist management processes. As needed, the Technician will also support product development tasks involving food analysis, using kitchen equipment, food analysis tools (e.g., pH meters), and Microsoft Office Suite. Learn more about our Food Innovation Center here:  

https://agsci.colostate.edu/spur/food-innovation-center/

Essential Job Duties

• Sample Preparation & Study Execution: Cook, prepare, label, and serve samples while maintaining high standards of organization, attention to detail, time management, and cleanliness throughout study execution. 

• Sensory Software & Technology: Build sensory tests, manage panelist attendance, and improve panelist communication using Compusense software, scan gun, and Microsoft Suite. 

• Panelist & Client Communication: Communicate professionally with panelists and clients, upholding CSU Spur Community Guidelines. 

• Lab Maintenance & Sanitation: Perform all duties necessary to maintain a clean and sanitary lab and sensory booth environment, including, but not limited to use of cleaning materials and dishwashing equipment. 

• Miscellaneous Project Work, Product Development & Professionalism: Ability to self-manage and adapt to shifting priorities as needed, which may include supporting product development projects using food science tools and equipment as assigned; report on-site to the Food Innovation Center in Denver, CO for each shift. 

Conditions of Employment 

This is a 9-month contract position. Candidates are expected to work the full 9 months.

Supervision 

Supervision from Management will vary; Technician must have the ability to self-manage  

Minimum Qualifications 

• BS in Food Science or related field 

• Experience using Microsoft Office suite 

• Ability to be on time and physically present, on site, at the Food Innovation Center in Denver, CO for each shift. 

Preferred Qualifications 

• Experience with supporting sensory testing.   

Application Instructions 

To apply, please submit your resume, cover letter and references. References will not be contacted without prior notification to applicant. 
Email to rachel.sears@colostate.edu 

* Must apply by 5/15/26 to be considered for this position.

Salary Range

Required Application Documents

To apply, please upload the following applicant documents. Ensure your materials fully address the required and preferred job qualifications of the position. Please note, applicants may redact information from their application materials that identifies their age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.

Employee Benefits

Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it’s a thriving community that’s transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact.

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Background Check Policy Statement

Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.

EEO

Colorado State University (CSU) provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.