The Hershey Company

Sr. Research Scientist, Chocolate

The Hershey Company • $80K — $110K *
Hershey, PA 17033In-Person
Food & Beverages
Less than 5 years of experience
Today
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Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • PhD in Food Science, Chemistry, Biology, or related field (0-2 years of experience), MS with 2-4 years of experience, or BS with 4-6 years of related experience.
  • Experience leading innovation initiatives such as product development and quality improvement.
  • Specific technical knowledge in chocolate or related areas is beneficial.
  • Strong understanding of process platforms and technical disciplines like Sensory and Engineering.
  • Proficient in troubleshooting and problem-solving.
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
  • Demonstrated ability to learn and apply new technical knowledge during projects.

Responsibilities

  • Lead product development projects for innovative chocolate products.
  • Develop formulations, ingredients, and processing methods.
  • Interact with cross-functional teams to drive project success.
  • Provide technical feasibility input for new product concepts.
  • Collaborate with Supply Chain to enhance quality and process value.
  • Communicate challenges and project updates to senior leadership.
  • Travel 25-40% for domestic and international collaboration.

Benefits

  • Opportunity to work on innovative chocolate product development.
  • Collaborative work environment with cross-functional teams.
  • Access to advanced R&D resources at Hershey's Technical Center.
  • Potential for professional growth and technical skill development.
  • Involvement in projects with significant business impact.
Full Job Description
Job Title

Sr. Research Scientist, Chocolate

Job Overview

Reporting to the R&D Sr. Manager, Cadbury, Kit Kat & Variety and working at The Hershey Company's Technical Center, the Senior Research Scientist Chocolate position provides project leadership on multiple medium complexity projects and/or beginning to lead a program with support. This could include a high number of low to medium complexity projects that drive leadership complexity. A medium to high level of autonomy on medium complexity projects and low to medium level of autonomy for high complexity projects is required. This individual is beginning to teach others technical knowledge in some spaces and has a focus on developing technical breadth. A successful candidate is communicating project and/or program challenges to senior leadership with the ability to have some influence on project/program direction through cross-functional communication.

Specific Role Focus Area:

Lead product development projects which provide innovative new products in the Chocolate space. These areas include formulation development, ingredient development, process development, capacity expansion, supply continuity, and product transformation interactions. Perform prototyping and development from bench top to pilot plant to full manufacturing scale. Interact closely with a cross-functional group of technical, professional, and managerial staff of R&D, as well as production, engineering, and marketing. Understand the business and financial impact of the projects. Apply technical rigor and scientific principles and practices. Provide input for technical feasibility for new product concepts. Partner with Supply Chain to provide technical support to drive quality and value improvement in both products and processes.

Accountabilities

This role will interact and partner with: Marketing Manufacturing Engineering Quality and Regulatory Project Management Technology Development Approximately 25-40% travel required, both in the US and Internationally.

Minimum knowledge, skills and abilities required to successfully perform major duties/responsibilities:
  • Experience leading innovation initiatives, which could include product development, quality improvement, cost improvement, technology validation and process optimization.
  • Demonstrated ability to learn new technical knowledge and apply it during development and commercialization processes.
  • Specific technical knowledge in chocolate is a plus.
  • Demonstrated experience in learning and applying process platforms. Strong knowledge of various technical disciplines (Sensory, Research, Engineering and Packaging) Knowledge of key steps in the development of capital projects, including commercialization, equipment selection, creation of TFD's, equipment acquisition, commissioning and start-up of process equipment and systems, and troubleshooting.
  • Understanding of the impact of the key processing parameters in the conversion of raw ingredient and in-process material to finished product and critical for the day-to-day operation of a line.
  • Demonstrated Influencing skills Proven administrative ability, decision-making skills, financial understanding, business integration skills, and technical expertise
  • Demonstrated problem solving and evaluation capabilities.
  • Excellent troubleshooting skills.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Must be open to and comfortable with change. The candidate much be able to work independently, and as part of a team in a fast-paced, growth-oriented business.


Prior Experience

PhD in Food Science, Chemistry, Biology or related field with 0-2 years of experience, MS with 2-4yrs related experience, OR BS with 4-6yrs related experience.

Experience in Chocolate Production and/or Innovation & experience in CPG environment is a plus.

About The Hershey Company

The Hershey Company Careers

Join the sweetest team on earth at The Hershey Company, a global leader in chocolate and sugar confections. With a rich heritage of innovation and leadership, The Hershey Company offers unparalleled job opportunities in an environment that champions diversity, creativity, and growth. Work You’ll Do Embark on a fulfilling career journey with The Hershey Company, where you can contribute to a range of exciting projects that help shape the future of the confectionery industry. At Hershey, you will work alongside a diverse team of professionals who are passionate about delivering joy through their products and innovations. Transform your professional life by engaging in roles that leverage your unique skills and aspirations. Whether in marketing, research and development, production, or sales, each position at Hershey is designed to foster leadership and professional growth. Lead with Innovation At The Hershey Company, innovation is at the core of everything we do. From creating delightful new treats to enhancing our sustainable practices, our team is constantly pushing the boundaries of what's possible in the confectionery space. Join a company where your ideas and leadership can make a tangible impact on our products and processes, driving growth and excellence in the industry. Explore Career Opportunities The Hershey Company is committed to nurturing talent and providing its employees with the tools they need for success. Explore a variety of job opportunities and internships that can help you build a rewarding career. Our positions are designed to challenge your skills and help you grow as a professional. Be Part of Our Culture Experience a company culture that values teamwork, integrity, and respect. At Hershey, we believe in creating an inclusive environment where every employee can thrive. Our commitment to diversity and inclusion is evident in our everyday operations and the positive atmosphere our team members enjoy. Benefits and Growth Invest in your future with The Hershey Company’s comprehensive benefits package, designed to support your health, well-being, and financial security. Embrace opportunities for career advancement through professional development programs and continuous learning initiatives. Networking and Professional Development Enhance your career prospects through Hershey’s robust networking opportunities. Connect with industry leaders, participate in global conferences, and engage in diversity training programs that prepare you for leadership roles within the company. Join Our Team Search for open positions that match your skills and interests on The Hershey Company’s careers page. We are looking for passionate, innovative, and driven individuals to join our team and help us continue our legacy of success and leadership in the confectionery industry. Stay Connected Keep up to date with the latest career tips, company news, and industry insights—all from the people who work at The Hershey Company. Subscribe to our careers blog and personalize your job alerts to find out about the exciting and rewarding opportunities that await you at Hershey. Explore, innovate, and grow with The Hershey Company. Discover how your career can flourish in an environment dedicated to nurturing talent and celebrating success. Join us and be part of a team that’s making a difference in the sweetest way possible!
Learn more about The Hershey Company
Size
16,620 employees
Market Cap
$48.1 billion
Industry
Food & Beverages
Net Income
$1.2 billion
Founded
1894
5 Year Trend
+3.8%
Revenue
$8.1 billion
NASDAQ
HSY
* Ladders Estimates

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