Engineer - Physical Automation

Overview

Engineer - Physical Automation

Posted Date:
Jan 29, 2026 | Requisition Number: 127406

Job Location:

Hershey, PA

Summary:

Reporting to the Dir Engineering, Physical Automation & Packaging Systems based in Hershey, PA and working at the Tech Center, Manufacturing Locations, and Remote, the Physical Automation Engineer with minimal direction participates in the development, execution, and implementation of low to medium complexity projects requiring functional & industry expertise, functional knowledge, & advocacy while developing business relationships to help deliver business results.

A successful candidate is expected to develop capability to demonstrate and apply technical knowledge and expertise, share technical expertise within the functional area and cross-functionally, and develop problem-solving skills and the ability to think critically. The role aims to communicate technical subject matter both written and verbally cross-functionally and with management, and to influence cross-functional team members and build personal networks to provide solutions.

Responsible for designing, integrating, and optimizing advanced automation systems — including collaborative robotics, vision systems, and process controls — to enhance process and packaging operations. The team’s core mission is to drive scalable, safe, and efficient automation solutions that reduce labor dependency, minimize material waste, and improve overall throughput. Works closely with cross-functional partners in operations, maintenance, safety, and IT; leads greenfield deployments and continuous improvement initiatives, ensuring seamless integration of physical automation technologies into existing and future production environments.

• Technical and professional employees within Global R&D and Tech Center Operations
• Plant Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations, and Quality Assurance
• Other Corporate Engineering functions (Project Management, Packaging Systems, Electrical, Packaging Materials, Civil, Utilities)
• Quality and Regulatory Compliance
• Procurement
• Marketing
• Operations Business Development
• Manufacturing Alliances
• External Vendors

This position requires domestic travel (depending on projects, travel can range from 30-50 percent) at times to support on-going business needs. International travel would only be for equipment research if we source internationally (typically 1 week in duration) and varies by project.

• Provide technical analyses, develop alternatives (cost estimates, feasibility, specifications, and interpretation of requirements) and prepare recommendations.
• Design and provide the optimal automation solution for a given project, including packaging, process, and control support for all phases of the capital projects; development of system concepts, design, cost estimating, system installation, check-out, commissioning, training, and successful transition of deliverables, including system operation manuals and maintenance documents to plant staff as defined in Hershey's Project Management process.
• Identify processes and manufacturing alternatives that meet new business requirements or establish functional excellence. Evaluate and participate in cross-functional processes to diagnose root cause issues and provide options for resolution.
• Evaluate and participate in cross-functional processes to diagnose root cause issues and provide options for resolution.

Ensures all packaging systems project implementation activities are in full compliance with all corporate capital control policies and procedures.

• Evaluation of manufacturing opportunities for advanced automation solutions either known or unknown to Hershey or industry.
• R&D of advanced automation solutions internally and in collaboration with external equipment manufacturers.

Proof of concept testing for solution validation prior to capital development and upscaling to manufacturing processes.

• Network and build relationships with external equipment manufacturers and suppliers to identify/develop new technologies to…