How will you fit in the big picture?Reporting to the Manager, R&D Salty Process Development & Continuous Improvement, this role leads product and process optimization initiatives across Hershey's Salty Snacks portfolio, including SkinnyPop, Dot's Pretzels, Pirate's Booty, and Reese's Filled Pretzels. Based in Hershey, PA, the Sr. Research Scientist drives Continuous Improvement projects focused on ingredients, commodities, product design, and manufacturing efficiency. The role requires a high level of technical expertise, independent decision-making, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to influence stakeholders across functions. Lean/Six Sigma principles are applied to support manufacturing optimization and business objectives.
Key Responsibilities- Lead development, validation, and implementation of projects focused on ingredient sourcing, product design, and manufacturing optimization.
- Improve supply flexibility, reliability, and cost efficiency through technical solutions.
- Develop formulations, product/process specifications, project scope, and timelines.
- Conduct feasibility and proof-of-concept testing to evaluate technical and financial viability.
- Analyze results, provide recommendations, and drive process or formulation improvements to enhance capacity and efficiency.
- Prepare technical reports, summarize findings, and present recommendations to leadership.
- Partner cross-functionally to ensure product recipes, specifications, and documentation are accurate and complete.
- Share technical expertise and effectively communicate complex concepts to diverse audiences across the organization.
What will you do?Key Partnerships- R&D Team Members
- Manufacturing & Co-Manufacturing
- Engineering
- Enterprise & Salty Consumer Insights Teams
- Quality & Regulatory Compliance (QRC)
- Project Management
- Procurement
Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities- Strong technical expertise in product and process development for salty snacks, including popcorn, extruded snacks, pretzels, crackers, and cookies, with experience in formulation, optimization, scale-up, validation, and commercialization.
- Demonstrated application of food science and process engineering principles, including understanding of process unit operations and their impact on product quality and sensory attributes.
- Knowledge of food manufacturing systems, equipment, sanitary design, construction practices, and industry suppliers.
- Basic understanding of Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs) and P&IDs.
- Working knowledge of Food Science, Engineering, Quality Assurance, GMPs, Lean Manufacturing, and TPM; Green/Black Belt certification preferred.
- Experience operating laboratory, pilot plant, and manufacturing equipment in a production environment.
- Ability to independently manage projects, prioritize competing demands, and execute against business objectives.
- Strong project management, organizational, and attention-to-detail skills.
- Effective collaborator with the ability to build relationships across all organizational levels.
- Strong written, verbal, and computer skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Office.
- Flexible schedule with the ability to work extended hours when required.
Minimum Education & RequirementsBS degree in Food Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Food Science, or engineering-related field with 5-8 years' experience, MS or PhD in Food Science or related field with 2-4 years' experience.
Intern and prior research project work will be considered; Salty Snacks product development experience is preferred
Benefits and PerksAt Hershey, we offer competitive pay and a comprehensive total rewards package designed to support your wellbeing, financial security, and life outside of work.
- Health & Wellbeing: Medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus wellness programs that support your physical and mental health
- Financial Security: Competitive pay, annual incentive opportunities, and a 401(k) with company match
- Time Off & Flexibility: Paid time off, company holidays, and flexible ways of working where applicable
- Growth & Development: Career development programs, learning opportunities, and internal mobility.
Benefits may vary based on role, location, and eligibility.
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