Research Scientist, Sweets & Refreshments

Research Scientist, Sweets & Refreshments

Posted Date:
May 27, 2026

Requisition Number: 129010

Job Location:

Hershey, PA

Reporting to the Manager, Sweets & Refreshment R&D and working at the Technical Center in Hershey, PA, the Research Scientist position assists on high‑complexity initiatives, leads work streams within larger initiatives, and/or leads low‑complexity initiatives with support. A low to medium level of autonomy is required depending on the workstream. A successful candidate learns how to demonstrate and apply technical knowledge while developing and sharing technical expertise within the functional area and cross‑functionally within the organization.

This candidate learns problem‑solving skills and the ability to think critically, communicates technical subject matter cross‑functionally and with management, influences cross‑functional team members, and builds personal networks.

• Lead product development projects which provide innovative new products in the Sweets & Refreshments space. These areas include formulation development, ingredient development, and product transformation interactions.
• Perform prototyping and development from bench top to pilot plant to full manufacturing scale.
• Interact closely with a cross‑functional group of technical, professional, and managerial staff of R&D, as well as production, quality, sensory, regulatory, engineering, packaging, and marketing.
• Understand the business impact of the projects.
• Apply GMPs, technical rigor, scientific principles and practices.
• Provide input for technical feasibility for new product concepts.
• Partner with Supply Chain to provide technical support to drive quality and value improvement in products and processes.
• Lead ingredient shortage mitigation work streams to minimize supply‑chain impacts to the business.

• Marketing
• Manufacturing
• Quality and Regulatory
• Sensory and Consumer Insights
• Project Management

• Experience leading innovation initiatives, which could include product development, quality improvement, cost improvement, technology validation, and process optimization.
• Demonstrated ability to learn new technical knowledge and apply it during development and commercialization processes. Specific technical knowledge in sweets & refreshment (chewy sweets, high boiled sweets, and polyols) is a plus.
• Knowledge of various technical disciplines (Sensory, Research, Engineering, and Packaging).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, in addition to troubleshooting skills.
• Proven administrative ability, decision‑making skills, financial understanding, business integration skills, and technical expertise.

• BS in Food Science, Chemistry, Biology, Chemical Engineering or other STEM degree or a minimum of 2–4 years of applicable experience.

This role will require 25–40% domestic and potential international travel.

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.

The Hershey Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Minority/Female/Disabled/Protected Veterans.

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