Senior Process Engineer - Capital Projects & Optimization

Senior Process Engineer

Posted Date:
May 20, 2026

Requisition Number: 128134

Job Location:

Hershey, PA (Open to Remote if near a major US plant)

Reporting to the Senior Manager in the Process Engineering Group and working at the Technical Center in Hershey PA, the Senior Process Engineer will independently lead conceptual and detailed engineering design, execution, and implementation of medium‑complexity projects requiring functional and industry expertise. The role utilizes strong technical knowledge, problem‑solving, and optimization skills and collaborates with technical and business partners to communicate complex subject matter across all organizational levels.

Integrity and leadership attributes are essential to influence cross‑functional teams.

• Conceptual and detailed engineering design and cost estimation for capital projects supporting North American manufacturing.
• Implementation & execution of capital projects to support North American Manufacturing.
• Problem solving through application of technical acumen and creative thinking.
• May manage process‑focused capital projects.
• May manage co‑ops or interns, including interviewing and selection.

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

Domestic and international travel may be required to support business and is project dependent.

• Construction scope and bid package development for small to large capital projects.
• Coordinate and oversee equipment and system installation, check‑out, and commissioning.
• Responsible for process support, troubleshooting and optimization during startup.
• Lead training of manufacturing personnel (operators, supervisors, QA, and maintenance) on key operating parameters.
• Ensure successful transition of deliverables and documentation to Plant Operations and Maintenance staff.

• Develop manufacturing alternatives that meet business requirements and provide processing solutions.
• Create PFD & P& and development.
• Specify equipment, evaluate suppliers, and perform equipment selection.
• Conduct cost estimating for capital projects and process solutions.

• Budget, schedule, and resource management of process‑focused capital projects.
• Lead multi‑functional teams under minimal direction to ensure successful project execution.
• Make critical decisions under pressure with limited information.

Knowledge and experience in process design typical for the food and pharma industry, including:

• Strong understanding of common process unit operations and equipment, sanitary design and construction practices, GMPs, and Food Safety.
• Strong understanding of the design, application and maintenance of process piping systems, food manufacturing equipment, and process automation & instrumentation.
• Demonstrated proficiencies in the food, pharmaceutical or other industry relative to Hershey manufacturing processes, construction practices, standards, and codes.
• Prioritization of solutions and development of schedules based on business objectives.
• Strong troubleshooting and optimization skills.
• Ability to execute projects in a timely manner.

• Strong leadership and decision‑making ability.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and strong written and oral communication skills.
• Open and comfortable with change.
• Proficient with MS Office programs.

• BS in Chemical, Mechanical, Food, Agricultural, or other closely related Engineering field.
• Minimum 4 years of experience in Food Processing, Confectionery, Pharmaceutical or related industries.
• Process engineering, process design and project management experience, including process troubleshooting and optimization.

The Hershey Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The policy of The Hershey Company is to extend opportunities to qualified applicants and employees on an equal basis regardless of an individual's race, color, gender, age, national origin, religion, citizenship status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, transgender status, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other categories protected by applicable federal, state or local laws.

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