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Job OverviewThe Global Science and Technology Team within R&D is responsible for scouting and developing new technologies for ingredients, products, and processes from upstream research through validation at the commercial scale. The Sr. Research Scientist will lead multiple ingredient technology development projects across a variety of product portfolios. The role is located on site at Hershey's Technical Center in Hershey, PA and reports to the Manager / Sr. Manager, Ingredient Technology Development.
The Sr. Research Scientist will be responsible for ingredient technology development for multiple existing and novel product categories and will become a subject matter expert (SME) in one or more of these areas. The individual will stay current on ingredient trends and bring new technologies into the company for testing and validation. This will require advancing and leveraging in-depth knowledge of food science, product formulation, and manufacturing.
In addition to working with R&D team members, considerable interaction is expected with Marketing, Product Development, Sensory, Manufacturing, Legal, Engineering, Quality, and other Supply Chain departments. The individual will assume a leadership role in complex projects, guiding them through Hershey Innovation processes with a cross-functional team. This includes providing input to set priorities and strategic direction for research programs. The individual will be responsible for project design and methodology, testing ideas through experimentation, and determining next steps through problem solving. Hands-on skills involving running laboratory and pilot plant equipment is required. Experience in leading cross-functional technology and/or product development projects to commercialization is desired. Presentation of the project results will be expected in both written and oral forms.
Accountabilities- Identify and develop new technologies to drive innovation in confectionery, snacking, novel foods, and other strategic categories.
- Design and execute bench- and pilot-scale experiments, documenting results in the company's knowledge management system.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams including R&D, Manufacturing, Engineering, and Marketing to advance research and product development initiatives.
- Build and manage relationships with internal and external partners to achieve project objectives and research outcomes.
- Understand business priorities and ensure projects align with strategic goals and deliverables.
- Apply scientific principles, technical expertise, and rigorous research practices to solve complex challenges.
- Explore emerging product and process technologies while identifying opportunities for intellectual property development.
Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Strong technical foundation and demonstrated application of the Scientific Method in research and development projects.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present findings to peers, management, and senior leadership.
- Experience leading ingredient, product, and process innovation initiatives.
- Ability to safely operate laboratory and pilot plant equipment while adhering to GMP, safety, and documentation standards.
- Proven project management and organizational skills, with success leading multiple concurrent projects.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams.
- Ability to work effectively both independently and within cross-functional teams in a dynamic environment.
- Strong quantitative skills, including intermediate statistical knowledge.
- Demonstrated experience leading cross-functional research and product development projects.
Additional Information
This position is based onsite at the Tech Center in Hershey, PA and requires approximately 15-20% travel, including international travel.
Minimum Education & RequirementsMinimum BS degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Food Engineering, or related field plus 5-10 years of relevant experience. MS degree with 5+ years or PhD with 2-5 years of relevant experience.
Internship and prior research work will be considered.
