This job is with Altria, an inclusive employer and a member of myGwork – the largest global platform for the LGBTQ+ business community. Please do not contact the recruiter directly. Join a team where deep consumer understanding drives breakthrough innovation and fuels growth for a Fortune 500 company with some of the most iconic brands! If you hold a degree in Science or Engineering and have at least two years of experience conducting sensory consumer-centered R&D research, we invite you to explore an opportunity to make a meaningful impact. We are seeking a Sensory Product Researcher to join our team in Richmond, VA, or we are open to remote work arrangements. Must be willing to travel as needed, approximately 20-30% This role is critical to understanding adult tobacco and nicotine consumer perceptions and translating insights into actionable strategies for product development and marketing. The individual will lead learning plans, advance research methodologies, and deliver consumer insights that drive strategic decisions, unlock opportunities within the existing portfolio, and support the development of new nicotine products aligned with Altria’s long-term growth vision.
What you'll be doing:- Support consumer research and opportunity identification: Design and execute learning plans to uncover insights and identify opportunities that inform business strategy.
- Drive cross-functional alignment: Partner with Product Development, Marketing, and other stakeholders to define research objectives and ensure alignment on priorities and deliverables.
- Manage research execution: Oversee study design, vendor partnerships, and execution to deliver high-quality insights on time and within scope.
- Synthesize and communicate insights: Translate complex data into clear, compelling insights and recommendations for stakeholders and leadership.
- Prioritize and manage projects: Balance multiple initiatives effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
- Advance research methodologies: Evaluate and introduce new research approaches to improve speed, quality, and impact of insights.
- Manage budgets and resources: Oversee research investments and ensure effective allocation of resources across projects.
- We want you to have:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Science, Engineering, Sensory Science, Psychology, Human Factors, Consumer Science, Biology, Chemistry or a related field.2+ years of experience in sensory consumer-driven R&D or similar sensory products research.
- Knowledge in advanced sensory methodologies, design of experiments and quantitative modeling, including Driver analysis, DCE/choice modeling for product optimization and TURF for portfolio and SKU strategy.
- Ability to integrate sensory, behavioral and performance data into clear insights.
- Strong problem-solving skills and ability to craft compelling, insight-driven stories.
- Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, fast-paced, dynamic, and ambiguous environment.
- Client management and consultative mindset, with confidence to challenge and debate constructively.
- Why You’ll Love Building Your Career at Altria At Altria, we believe a great career starts with feeling supported — both at work and in life. Here’s what you’ll find here:
Work where connection and flexibility meet — enjoy the benefits of in-person collaboration three days a week (Tuesday - Thursday), while maintaining the flexibility to work remotely on Mondays and Fridays. Our hybrid approach empowers you to stay connected, collaborate with colleagues, and manage your schedule in a way that works best for you.
Own your time — start with 15 days of paid time off, 13 paid holidays, 2 floating holiday days, and a 37.5-hour workweek so you can recharge and live fully.
A place where you belong — where your ideas are welcomed, your growth is encouraged, and your impact is real.
Get recognized for your work — annual merit increases and performance bonus.
A future you can count on — 401(k) matching from day one; plus Deferred Profit Sharing, an annual company contribution in an amount equal to 13%–17% of your base salary.
Help with your goals — get help with student loan repayment assistance, attend a conference, or gain a new certification with professional development stipends.
Support for what matters most — comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family.
Celebrating your milestones — paid parental and bonding leave for life’s biggest moments.
Wellness that goes beyond work — programs that care for your whole well-being at whatever stage you are in your life.
A culture that gives back — paid volunteer days and a shared commitment to making a difference. At Altria, we offer more than benefits — we offer a career that fits your life, rewards your ambition, and celebrates your impact. This position is not eligible for sponsorship.
