Sensory R&D Co-op

Location: Boston, MA, United States Department: Temporary

We're looking for a motivated and detail-oriented Co-op to join our Sensory Research & Development team, supporting sensory testing, data analysis, and product innovation initiatives. This role offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in sensory science methodologies, consumer research, and cross-functional product development within a dynamic beverage environment. As part of a 6-month co-op program, you'll work closely with Sensory Scientists and partners across Brewing, Quality Assurance, and Product Development to generate insights that support product development, innovation, and business decision-making.

This position is part of our 6-month Co-op Program, running from January 4, 2027, through June 25, 2027. The role is fully onsite at our Boston Brewery location, with team members expected to work five days per week from our Boston Brewery.

Sensory Testing & Research

Execute and support daily sensory panels, discrimination testing, descriptive analysis, stakeholder tastings, and drinker research to evaluate products, ingredients, and innovation initiatives.

Prepare samples, maintain sensory labs and testing materials, and ensure sensory best practices are followed to support efficient, high-quality testing.

Support ongoing sensory science initiatives and contribute to research activities across the team.

Data Analysis & Reporting

Collect, manage, analyze, and report sensory data.

Maintain databases and dashboards that support business decisions and long-term sensory research.

Summarize findings and communicate insights to support project recommendations and product decisions.

Cross-Functional Collaboration & Project Work

Partner with Sensory Scientists and cross-functional teams, including Brewing, Quality Assurance, and Product Development, to support project timelines, cost-savings initiatives, and product development decisions.

Lead an independent research project aligned with team goals and present findings to key stakeholders.

Participate in team meetings, sensory learning sessions, and other development opportunities throughout the co-op experience.

Required Qualifications

Currently pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Food Science, Statistics, Data Science, Psychology, Biology, Sociology, or a related field.

Must continue to be enrolled in school after the completion of their co-op.

Must be able to commit to a 6-month internship/co-op.

Must be 21 years of age or older.

Must be able to commute daily to the Boston Brewery in Jamaica Plain, MA.

Strong time management, organizational, multitasking, and data analysis skills.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with sensory testing methodologies and sensory panel execution.

Familiarity with sensory software such as Compusense or RedJade.

Experience with statistical analysis tools such as XLSTAT, JMP, SPSS, SAS, or similar platforms.

Previous laboratory preparation or laboratory support experience.

Proficiency in Microsoft Excel.

What You'll Gain

Hands-on experience conducting sensory panels, analyzing sensory data, and supporting consumer research activities.

Exposure to stakeholder tastings, drinker research, and the broader product development process.

Opportunities to collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Brewing, Quality Assurance, and Product Development.

Mentorship and professional development from Sensory R&D Scientists throughout the co-op experience.

Participation in team meetings, sensory learning sessions, and other developmental opportunities.

Ownership of an independent research project, providing valuable experience in research design, data analysis, and presenting findings to stakeholders.

The Boston Beer Company may use AI-enabled tools to assist with identifying qualified candidates and streamline recruiting operations. These tools help us improve efficiency and consistency. All hiring decisions are made thoughtfully by recruiters and hiring teams. We regularly evaluate our processes to promote fairness, reduce bias, and comply with applicable laws.

To ensure the integrity of the evaluation, please refrain from using AI-generated enhancements during your phone and virtual interviews. If we discover that you have used such enhancements without authorization or prior disclosure, you may be disqualified from the hiring process. External AI tools may not be used to transcribe or record the interview at any time. This ensures your privacy, and Boston Beer's confidential information are protected.