Consumer scientist
Consumer scientists study why people use or buy products and services, and give advice to retailers and manufacturers.
- Starter salary£19,000 a year
- Experienced£50,000 a year
- Typical hours37 to 39 a week
What you'll do
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.
Skills and knowledge you'll need
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
How to become a 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
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.
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.
Guides for this industry
Related roles
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- Job roleFood scientist
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