Contractor Research Scientist, Sweets and Refreshment …, Hershey

Job Summary The Scientist will support the Sweets&Refreshment Product Development R&D team by assisting on high-complexity initiatives, leading workstreams, and managing low-complexity projects. This role requires a mix of hands-on lab/pilot plant work and documentation, with moderate autonomy. The candidate will play a key role in developing, testing, and optimizing food products, ensuring compliance with GMP and safety standards while collaborating across cross-functional teams.

Key Responsibilities

Execute pilot plant trials and create food product prototypes Develop trial plans, test protocols, and SOP documentation nalyze results and present findings with recommendations Maintain compliance with GMP, food safety, and lab safety protocols Operate, maintain, and document lab and pilot plant equipmentCollaborate with scientists, engineers, and cross-functional teams Support project execution and quality data tracking

Typical Day Breakdown

60% - Conduct trials, create samples, operate equipment, and clean/maintain equipment 30% - Documentation, data analysis, reporting, and SOP development 10% - Administrative work and training

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Science or Engineering Experience in lab or pilot plant environments bility to execute experiments on food processing equipment Strong written and verbal communication skills Experience with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook) Knowledge of GMPs and food safety practicesbility to lift up to 35 lbs

Preferred Qualifications

Experience in food manufacturing, R&D, or processing Knowledge of hard candy and gummies technology Experience working with food allergens Familiarity with pilot plant or manufacturing equipment

Top Technical Skills

Experience executing trials on food equipment (40%) Documentation and communication skills (30%) Cross-functional collaboration (30%)

Work Environment

Lab, pilot plant, and office-based work Occasional work in manufacturing facilities Fast-paced, evolving R&D environment

Travel&Schedule

Travel required up to 50% (including Canada&Mexico) Must be open to overtime and long hours when needed Standard full-time schedule

Key Competencies

Self-motivated and adaptable Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills bility to manage multiple priorities Team-oriented with strong collaboration skills

Pre-Screening Questions

re you open to travel (up to 50%) including Canada and Mexico? re you comfortable working overtime and long hours? Do you have experience working in a lab or pilot plant? re you legally authorized to work in the U.S.? How do you manage shifting priorities and multiple tasks?

Training

Duration: ~2 weeks Includes: GMP training, pilot plant training, equipment operation

Team&Structure

Individual contributor role Works closely with scientists, engineers, and R&D leadership Introduction meetings with leadership team within the first week

dditional Notes

High-priority R&D project requiring immediate support Fast-moving, collaborative environment No current full-time conversion guarantee