Sensory Technician

The Sensory Technician supports the daily operation of the sensory laboratory by preparing and executing sensory tests, assisting with panel trainings, and maintaining an organized and efficient lab environment. This role combines hands-on sample preparation and testing with basic data analysis and reporting to help the sensory team deliver accurate and timely results.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute sensory studies and internal trainings according to established plans, ensuring all procedures are followed accurately.
• Prepare the sensory testing environment, including setting up testing rooms, labeling cups, organizing materials, and arranging equipment.
• Prepare, portion, and serve samples to panelists in a consistent and controlled manner to support reliable sensory evaluations.
• Perform thorough cleanup after tests and trainings, maintaining a safe, clean, and organized work area at all times.
• Document incoming samples accurately, including labeling, tracking, and recording relevant information for future reference.
• Retrieve, organize, and stock supplies and materials needed for sensory testing and lab activities, ensuring adequate inventory levels.
• Carry out routine cleaning tasks and basic maintenance activities to uphold laboratory hygiene and safety standards.
• Set up data collection using sensory software and Excel, ensuring accurate input of study parameters and panelist responses.
• Analyze and report results of small-scale routine sensory studies by using sensory software and Excel to generate auto-reports and summaries.
• Interact effectively with the sensory team to plan resources, schedule studies, and coordinate panel trainings and lab activities.
• Support the broader sensory team goals and activities as needed, contributing to continuous improvement of processes and procedures.
• Work independently on assigned tasks, taking initiative to solve problems and complete work efficiently without constant supervision.

• Education at BS graduate level or completion of high school.
• Proficiency with computer applications, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
• Basic math skills, including working with percentages and performing conversions.
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds safely and repeatedly as part of routine lab and sample handling tasks.
• Service-oriented mindset with strong attention to detail in sample preparation, labeling, and data handling.
• Good planning and organizational skills to manage multiple tasks, studies, and lab resources effectively.
• Ability to work independently and take initiative, completing tasks with minimal supervision.
• Flexible and curious approach to work, with willingness to learn and adapt to new methods and procedures.
• Availability to work 40 hours per week, particularly during the 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. schedule.
• Ability to maintain a clean, safe, and orderly work environment in a sensory laboratory setting.

• Experience in a scientific laboratory or food preparation environment is desirable.
• Hands-on experience with laboratory procedures, sample handling, or food preparation techniques is an advantage.
• Comfort using sensory software or similar data collection tools for study setup and reporting.
• Strong communication skills to collaborate effectively with the sensory team and support panel activities.
• Demonstrated reliability and consistency in following procedures and meeting scheduled testing times.

This position is based on site in a sensory laboratory environment, working Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The role involves frequent standing, moving between testing rooms and preparation areas, and handling samples and supplies, including lifting items up to 40 pounds. The laboratory setting emphasizes cleanliness, organization, and safety, with routine cleaning and upkeep as part of daily activities. Work is performed in a collaborative environment alongside a sensory team, using standard office software and sensory-specific tools to support testing and data analysis. Attire should be appropriate for a lab and food preparation setting, with practical, clean clothing suitable for handling samples and performing routine lab tasks.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Arlington, VA.

The pay range for this position is $24.00 - $26.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Arlington,VA.

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 30, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.