Engineer - Physical Automation

Summary

Reporting to the Director, 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 and industry expertise, functional knowledge, and advocacy while developing business relationships to help deliver business results.

The candidate is expected to develop the capability to demonstrate and apply technical knowledge and expertise, share technical expertise within the functional area and cross‑functionally within the organization, solve problems, think critically, communicate technical subject matter written and verbally cross‑functionally and with management, 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. This includes leading both green‑field deployments and continuous improvement initiatives, ensuring seamless integration of physical automation technologies into existing and future production environments while working closely with cross‑functional partners in operations, maintenance, safety, and IT.

This position requires domestic travel (depending on projects, travel can range from 30‑50 percent) at times to support ongoing business needs. International travel would only be for equipment research if we source equipment internationally (typically one 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. These solutions will include packaging, process, and control support for all phases of the capital projects including development of system concepts, design, cost estimating, system installation, check‑out, commissioning, training, and successful transition of deliverables, including system operation manuals, maintenance documents, and technical knowledge to the plant staff as defined in Hershey’s Project Management process.
• Identify process 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.
• Ensure 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 and develop new technologies to help grow the Hershey Company’s technical capabilities.
• Develop relationships with internal business teams to provide direction and build sound packaging systems solutions for innovation and cost‑savings initiatives.
• Provide physical automation technical development, schedule, and budgeting recommendations during project development assessments.
• Collaborate with senior engineering peers to refine the skills required to provide physical automation engineering functional evaluations, comprehensive project scopes, equipment schedules, and capital budgets.

• Identify personal development…