All Job Categories
Consumer scientist
Consumer scientists study why people use or buy products and services, and give advice to retailers and manufacturers.
Average salary (a year)
£19000
Starter
£50000
Experienced
Typical hours (a week)
37.0 to 39.0 hours
a week
Work Hours
between 8am and 6pm
How to become
Explore the different ways to get into this role
You can get into this job through:a university course; applying directly
University
You’ll usually need a degree or equivalent qualification in a relevant subject like
consumer studies, food and consumer product management, food science or technology, psychology, marketing, statistics
Some employers may ask for a postgraduate qualification in behavioural psychology or consumer behaviour.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
  • 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
  • a degree in any subject for a postgraduate course
Direct Application
You may be able to apply directly if you've got relevant experience in a related industry, for instance food manufacturing or market research analysis.
What it takes
Find out what skills you’ll use in this role
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
    Analytical thinking skills
    To be thorough and pay attention to detail
    Maths knowledge
    The ability to use your initiative
    Customer service skills
    Persistence and determination
    Excellent verbal communication skills
    The ability to use your judgement and make decisions
Digital Skills Level
to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently
What you will do
Discover the day-to-day tasks you’ll do in this role
Day to day tasks
Duties will vary depending on your industry but you may
recruit and train panels or focus groups, conduct interviews with consumers, investigate consumer trends, give advice to manufacturers and retailers on improving products and services, develop tests to make sure products meet quality standards and legal requirements, produce information on new products for the public, research, write and present reports, advise on healthy living in schools, colleges and universities
Working environment
You could work in a laboratory, at a university or in an office.
Career Path & Progression
Look at progression in this role and similar opportunities
With experience you could move into a management post or specialise in one area, for example data analysis.
With training you could use your experience to work in education.
Job profile data provided by The National Careers Service.
Powered by
Claim your school or college profile