Food & Beverage STEM OPT Jobs in Maryland

INTRODUCTION

Perdue Foods has a goal of becoming the most trusted name in premium proteins by creating products for consumers and for retail and foodservice customers around the globe while changing the way animals are raised for food. It is part of Perdue Farms, a fourth-generation, family-owned food and agricultural business deeply rooted in tradition yet with a forward-thinking mindset. We believe that success starts with our people, and our culture is built on a foundation of teamwork, integrity, and respect, where every voice matters and everyone is encouraged to contribute to our shared goals. We are dedicated to creating a supportive, inclusive environment where associates feel valued and inspired to make an impact, both within the company and in the communities we serve. From promoting growth and development to prioritizing work-life balance, we’re committed to helping our team members thrive. That's Perdue.

SUMMARY

Shape the future of product innovation through consumer insights and sensory excellence. As a Sensory Scientist, you will serve as a key connection between Research & Development and Marketing, delivering meaningful sensory guidance that supports business growth and product success. You will partner with cross-functional teams to design and execute sensory and consumer research that drives product optimization, innovation, and strategic decision-making. From customizing research methodologies to analyzing data and presenting actionable insights, you will play an important role in helping bring high quality, consumer-focused products to market. Working closely with the Sensory Manager, this role is ideal for a collaborative, detail-oriented professional who thrives on combining science, consumer understanding, and innovation in a dynamic environment.

This position is located onsite at our Innovation Center in Salisbury, MD.

The salary range for this position is $68,000 - $102,000 per year, based on experience and qualifications with annual bonus available (variable depending on performance).

In addition to the base salary, Perdue offers a competitive benefits package, including medical/Rx, 401(k) with employer match after 1 year, critical illness, accident insurance, dental, vision, life insurance, optional group life insurance, short-term and long-term disability protection, flexible spending accounts and paid time off.

PRINCIPAL ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Design sensory methodologies to support product optimization and innovation.
• Coordinate test execution and manage preparation of resources, maintaining clear communication with sensory technicians.
• Analyze data and provide feedback to team members in Product Development, Marketing, Foodservice, and Market Research. Report findings and recommending next steps.
• Coordinate and manage internal and external testing schedules.
• Maintain internal and external consumer databases.
• Lead process development for continuous improvement in sensory, including support for all R&D categories, shelf-life programs, and quality control/assurance sensory programs at manufacturing facilities.
• Assist in developing standardized practices, protocols, and processes to align sensory across the organization.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s Degree in Food Science, Agriculture, Nutrition, or related discipline.
• 2–4 years of work experience; or in the absence of a bachelor’s degree, 5+ years of total experience.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Strong interpersonal skills with ability to communicate details verbally and in writing.
• Knowledge of qualitative and quantitative research methods.
• Excellent team player with a positive attitude and ability to partner across teams to provide insights.

PREFERRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Master’s degree.
• Sensory experience.
• Knowledge of JMP, Compusense, and/or XLSTAT.
• Strong statistics and sensory methodology knowledge.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS

• Position is mostly sedentary but may require occasional movement between offices or buildings.
• May move light equipment or supplies.
• May access files, supplies, and equipment.
• Work activity occurs in an office, open-partitioned, cubicle environment.

Perdue Farms Inc. is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.