Project Coordinator - job 1 of 3

SAM is a fast-growing and global sensory and consumer research consultancy.  Our mission is to allow consumers a voice in the development of outstanding food, beverage, pet, and health & beauty products so to create high quality and memorable experiences.  We help our clients:

• Develop new product ideas
• Re-energize a well-established product
• Assess product-concept fit or packaging effectiveness
• Understand the product, brand and category competitive landscapes
• Protect product quality through from inception through end of shelf life

SAM The National Food Lab is the division of SAM that provides these services for all USA-based clients.  Our sensory science program resides in our USA headquarters in Minneapolis, MN.

The Project Coordinator reports to the Associate Director of Operations and plays a key role in the planning, coordination, and execution of consumer and sensory research studies. This is a full-time, onsite position that requires daily in-person presence to effectively manage all logistical aspects of test execution. The Project Coordinator is responsible for overseeing all operational aspects of test execution, collaborating across departments to ensure readiness, and serving as an on-site leader during fieldwork. The ideal candidate is highly organized, solution-oriented, and thrives in a fast-paced, team-driven environment.

Operational Responsibilities

• Plan and oversee all test execution details, including logistics, preparation and serve plans for products, ensuring proper rotation and protocols.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with internal departments to ensure all logistical, survey, A/V, scheduling, and procurement needs are addressed prior to testing.
• Identify potential issues early and proactively develop solutions by engaging with project stakeholders and facilitating planning discussions.
• Assist with receiving, unpacking, inventorying, repacking, and shipping of test products to support smooth project execution and accurate product handling.
• Ensure accurate coding, labeling, and inventory of test products and supplies in accordance with the project plan.
• Manage test product procurement, working closely with the Procurement Manager and purchasing directly from local vendors as needed.
• Guide and support Field Operations Leads by providing clear direction, reviewing documentation, and leading test handoffs; serve as a mentor and in-the-moment resource during execution.
• Act as the primary point of contact for test-day troubleshooting, providing on-the-ground support to ensure smooth execution.
• Resolve conflicts, mitigate risks, and troubleshoot unforeseen challenges in a timely and professional manner.
• Maintain test timelines, cost-efficiency, and client satisfaction throughout all planning and execution stages.
• Conduct post-test reviews to share feedback and implement process improvements.
• Support general building upkeep and organization, including restocking supplies, maintaining cleanliness and order in shared spaces, and completing miscellaneous tasks that contribute to an efficient, well-functioning workspace.
• Provide subject matter expertise during the test design phase, advising Client Service and Bidding teams on operational feasibility and logistics.
• Assist with remote testing logistics, including vendor coordination, cost estimation, scheduling, and budgeting for off-site studies.
• Partner with the Operations Director to identify and drive process improvements within the department.
• Support company initiatives to increase operational efficiency and adapt to changes with a positive, solutions-oriented mindset.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement, offering coaching, brainstorming support, and guidance on effective problem-solving approaches.
• Maintain a current Food Manager Certificate (renewed annually through company-provided training).
• Crosstrain across operational roles and provide backup support to ensure project continuity when needed.

Educational Background/Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree required; preferred areas of study include Food Science, Hospitality/Food Service Management, Project Management, Market Research, Business, or related fields.
• Previous experience in project coordination, food service, event planning, research, or operations is a plus, but not required.
• Open to entry-level candidates with relevant coursework, internships, or part-time experience who demonstrate strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Willingness to learn, adapt, and take initiative in a fast-paced, hands-on environment is essential.

Required Proficiencies with the following Software and Platforms:

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and Apple products.
• Working knowledge of cloud-based applications and the internet is required.
• Experience with analysis and spreadsheet software, particularly Excel, to track, analyze, and report on key project metrics.
• Experience with operational platforms such as Microsoft 365, Salesforce, and Adobe is a plus.

Skills:

• Communication – Communicate clearly and effectively both verbally and in writing, with strong knowledge of grammar, composition, and spelling.
• Teamwork – Resolve conflicts, stay objective, support team success, and put team goals above personal interests.
• Dependability & Commitment – Consistently follow direction, take responsibility for tasks, and ensure timely completion. Demonstrate a strong work ethic, willing to put in extra hours when necessary to meet goals and ensure coverage in your absence.
• Highly organized, able to manage multiple projects and deadlines effectively.
• Detail-oriented, ensuring accuracy and consistency in all tasks and deliverables.
• Solution-minded, with a proactive approach to identifying and solving challenges.
• Quick learner, able to adapt to new tools, technologies, and workflows swiftly.
• Creative, bringing fresh ideas and approaches to marketing and operations.
• Driven and self-motivated, with a strong commitment to meeting and exceeding goals.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, enabling effective collaboration with cross-functional teams.
• Outgoing and personable, with the ability to contribute to a positive and welcoming work environment.
• Able to work effectively in a fast-paced, sometimes noisy environment, maintaining focus and composure while being part of a dynamic team.

The Project Coordinator position is full-time onsite, M-F: Standard Business Hours, with additional hours as needed. The salaried range for this position starts at $50,000 annually.

Work Enviroment & Physical Demands:

The work environment characteristics and physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; sit and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
• The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 35 pounds (50 lbs. with assistance).
• The employee must have the ability to stand for long periods of time.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

Eurofins USA Food Testing is a Disabled and Veteran Equal Employment Opportunity employer.