Research Scientist Role – Hershey Company
The Hershey Company, one of the worldโs most iconic confectionery brands, is seeking a Senior Research Scientist (R&D) โ Sweets & Refreshment to join its Technical Center in Hershey, Pennsylvania. The Food Science Job focuses on leading innovative product development projects, from concept to commercialization, across the sweets and refreshment category. The ideal candidate will bring technical expertise, cross-functional collaboration, and a passion for developing high-quality confections that delight consumers worldwide.
Job Details:
- Position Title: Senior Research Scientist โ R&D (Sweets & Refreshment)
- Requisition Number: 125931
- Location: Hershey, Pennsylvania
- Department: Research & Development (US CMG Sweets)
- Travel Requirement: Approximately 25% (Domestic and International)
- Reports To: Senior Manager, Sweets and Refreshment
Job Summary:
Reporting to the Senior Manager Sweets and Refreshment and working at The Hershey Companyโs Technical Center, the Senior Research Scientist Sweets 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.
About the Company:
The Hershey Company is a global leader in confectionery and snacking, known for its portfolio of iconic brands like Hersheyโs, Reeseโs, and Kit Kat. With a commitment to innovation, quality, and community, Hershey continues to push the boundaries of food science to create new and exciting products for consumers around the world.
Educational Requirements for the Sr. Research Scientist:
- Ph.D. in Food Science, Biology, or a related field with 0โ2 years of experience, or
- M.S. degree with 2โ4 years of related experience, or
- B.S. degree with 4โ6 years of relevant experience
Key Responsibilities of Sr. Research Scientist:
- In this Research Jobs, you have to lead multiple product development projects in sweets and refreshments, including formulation, ingredient, and process optimization.
- Develop and scale products from bench-top prototypes to pilot plant and full-scale manufacturing.
- Partner cross-functionally with Marketing, Manufacturing, Engineering, Quality, Regulatory, and Project Management teams.
- Apply technical rigor, scientific principles, and feasibility assessments for new product concepts.
- Support capacity expansion, supply continuity, and product transformation initiatives.
- Drive continuous improvement in quality, process efficiency, and value optimization.
- Communicate project progress and challenges to senior leadership, influencing strategic direction.
- Mentor and share technical knowledge with junior team members.
Skills Required for the Sr. Research Scientist:
- For this Research Jobs, you require strong expertise in sweets and refreshment technologies (e.g., chewy sweets, high-boiled sweets, polyols).
- Hands-on experience with formulation development, sensory science, and process engineering.
- Knowledge of capital project development, including equipment selection, acquisition, and commissioning.
- Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
- Proven ability to influence cross-functional teams and drive innovation.
- Exceptional communication and presentation skills.
- Adaptable to fast-paced and changing business environments.
- Strong business acumen and project management skills.
How to Apply for Research Jobs?
Qualified candidates for the Food Science Job can apply online through Hersheyโs official career portal. Please ensure that your resume highlights relevant technical expertise, leadership experience, and confectionery or food product development background.
