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Consumer scientist

Alternative titles for this job include

Consumer scientists study why people use or buy products and services, and give advice to retailers and manufacturers.

Average salary (a year)

£19,000 Starter

to

£50,000 Experienced

Typical hours (a week)

37 to 39 a week

You could work

between 8am and 6pm

How to become

Explore the different ways to get into this role.

How to become Consumer scientist

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

More Information

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.

What it takes

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
  • to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

What you’ll do

Discover the day to day tasks you’ll do in this role.

What you'll do

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 and progression

Look at progression in this role and similar opportunities.

Career path and progression

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.

Current opportunities

Find apprenticeships, courses and jobs available near you.

Current opportunities

Apprenticeships In England

We can't find any apprenticeship vacancies in England for a Consumer scientist right now.

The Find an apprenticeship service can help you with your search, send alerts when new apprenticeships become available and has advice on how to apply.

Courses In England

Food Science and Nutrition, Level 3 Diploma

  • Provider: ALL SAINTS' CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL
  • Start date: 03 September 2025
  • Location: Sheffield

BTEC Food Technology

  • Provider: GARFORTH ACADEMY
  • Start date: 01 September 2025
  • Location: Leeds
Find courses near you

Jobs In the United Kingdom

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