Research Assistant, Salty

Research Assistant, Salty

At The Hershey Company, our culture is rooted in purpose and inspired by Milton Hershey's enduring vision that business should create opportunity for others. Through our commitment to corporate philanthropy, we create positive impact by supporting communities, helping children thrive, and operating as a business for good. This includes our deep and long standing partnership with Milton Hershey School, where we invest in education, workforce readiness, and hands on engagement to help students succeed beyond the classroom.

Supported by strategic grantmaking, product donations, cross brand collaboration, and strong employee volunteerism, Hershey offers a place to work where making a difference—locally and globally—is part of how we do business every day.

The Research Assistant, Process Development provides hands-on support for the development and optimization of manufacturing processes across Hershey's growing salty snacks portfolio, including popcorn, extruded snacks, pretzels, fried snacks, and baked crackers. Based at the Hershey Technical Center in Hershey, PA, this role supports pilot plant, laboratory, and manufacturing trials that help bring innovative products and technologies to market. Working closely with Process Development Engineers and cross-functional partners, the Research Assistant will play an important role in executing experiments, collecting technical data, preparing samples, maintaining equipment, and supporting day-to-day operations within the pilot plant and laboratory environments.

Support pilot plant and laboratory trials by preparing materials, operating equipment under supervision, collecting samples, and documenting observations. Assist with the setup, operation, cleaning, and maintenance of pilot-scale food processing equipment. Prepare product samples for sensory, consumer, and internal evaluations. Conduct basic analytical testing and maintain accurate technical records. Support ingredient and supply inventory management, lot tracking, and laboratory organization. Maintain a safe, clean, and compliant work environment while following all quality, sanitation, and safety procedures.

Collaborate with engineers and cross-functional teams to support process development activities and technology advancement initiatives.

Minimum Education & Requirements High School Diploma/GED with 3-4 years of related experience, OR Bachelor's degree in a non-related field with no prior experience required. Technical or professional certification preferred. Basic understanding of food processing, manufacturing operations, or mechanical systems preferred. Experience working in laboratory, pilot plant, manufacturing, food production, or other technical environments is a plus. Strong attention to detail and ability to accurately record technical data and observations.

Ability to learn and operate processing equipment and analytical tools with appropriate training. Strong communication, teamwork, and organizational skills. Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced environment with a proactive and adaptable mindset. Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work in laboratory, pilot plant, and manufacturing environments that may include heat, noise, and moving equipment. Occasional travel (up to 10%) may be required.

Education:

High School Diploma/GED required. Associate's degree, Bachelor's degree, or technical/professional certification preferred.

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.