R&D Jobs at Hershey Careers
The Hershey Company is seeking an experienced Associate Manager, R&D Sensory Cocoa Science to join its Technical Center in Hershey, PA. The R&D Jobs offer a unique blend of sensory science leadership, cocoa research expertise, and cross-functional collaboration. The ideal candidate will drive descriptive analysis programs, manage the professional sensory panel, and support cocoa science innovation across Hersheyโs confectionery and snacking portfolio. Join for the food science job at Hershey Careers Now!
Job Details:
- Job Title: Associate Manager, R&D Sensory Cocoa Science
- Location: Hershey, Pennsylvania
- Requisition Number: 126110
- Category: R&D / Sensory
- Employment Type: Full-Time
- Posted Date: November 3, 2025
- Travel: Up to 10% (Primarily within the U.S.)
About the Company:
The Hershey Company is one of the worldโs most iconic and trusted snacking brands, known for its commitment to quality, innovation, and consumer delight. Through cutting-edge R&D initiatives and continuous product development, Hershey leads advancements in flavor, sensory science, and confectionery technology. The Hershey Technical Center is home to world-class scientists and experts dedicated to delivering exceptional taste experiences to consumers worldwide.
Educational Requirements for the Associate Manager Role:
- B.S. degree with 4โ6 years of experience, or
- M.S. degree with 2โ4 years of experience
- Fields: Food Science, or related discipline
- Coursework and/or practical experience in Sensory Science
- Minimum 1โ3 years managing a Descriptive Panel
Key Responsibilities of the Associate Manager Role:
Sensory & Cocoa Science Leadership
- Lead and manage the Professional Sensory Panel (12 part-time panelists + Panel Leader)
- Develop descriptive program capabilities (training, calibration, performance management)
- Support cocoa ingredient testing, validation, and cocoa science projects
Research & Project Execution
- Plan and execute Descriptive Analysis studies for quality, innovation, and productivity
- Perform statistical analysis and reporting to guide business decisions
- Conduct sensory lexicon development for new product categories
- Manage sensory research supporting shelf-life, troubleshooting, suppliers, and cost improvement
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Partner with:
- R&D Technology Development
- Product Development
- Procurement
- Supply Chain & Manufacturing
- Quality & Regulatory
- Consumer Insights
- External research suppliers
Capability Building & Innovation
- Assess and integrate new sensory methodologies and tools
- Maintain alignment on best practices within sensory teams
- Contribute to SPI (Sensory & Product Insights) capability building initiatives
Skills Required for the Associate Manager Role:
Technical Skills:
- Expertise in Descriptive Program Management
- Proficient in sensory methods: Descriptive, Affective, Discrimination
- Experience with sensory data software: EyeQuestion, Compusense, SIMS
- Strong statistical skills using: SAS, StatGraphics, R, etc.
- Knowledge of sensory science for cocoa and ingredient testing
Soft Skills:
- Strong leadership and people management abilities
- Excellent communication and presentation skills
- Ability to work cross-functionally and influence diverse teams
- Strong organizational and multi-tasking skills
- Emotional intelligence and collaborative mindset
-
Prior management/leadership of employees or contractors
How to Apply for R&D Jobs?
Candidates interested for the Food Science Job can apply directly through The Hershey Companyโs official careers page. Applicants may also opt to receive job alerts for future R&D, sensory science, and product development roles.
