Process Development Research Assistant — Snacks

Hershey Company; Hershey (PA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 62,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

401(k) plan

Paid time off

Career development

Job summary

The Hershey Company is seeking a Research Assistant, Process Development at the Hershey Technical Center in Hershey, PA to support the development and optimization of salty snacks processing. You will participate in pilot plant and lab trials, collect data, prepare samples, and help bring innovative products to market.

Working with engineers and cross-functional teams, you will execute experiments, maintain equipment, document observations, and help ensure safety and quality in fast-paced

Qualifications

• High School Diploma/GED required.
• Associate's/Bachelor's degree or technical/certification preferred.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to record observations accurately.
• Ability to learn and operate processing equipment with training.
• Experience in lab, pilot plant, or food production environments is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Support pilot plant and laboratory trials by preparing materials, operating equipment under supervision, collecting samples, and documenting observations.
• Assist with 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 inventory management and lot tracking within the lab and pilot plant.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and compliant work environment following quality and sanitation procedures.
• Collaborate with engineers and cross-functional teams to advance process development initiatives.
• Occasional travel up to 10%.

Skills

Lab equipment operation

Analytical testing

Data recording

Teamwork

Communication skills

Education

High School Diploma/GED

Associate/Bachelor’s degree preferred

Tools

Laboratory equipment

Job description

The Hershey Company is seeking a Research Assistant, Process Development at the Hershey Technical Center in Hershey, PA to support the development and optimization of salty snacks processing. You will participate in pilot plant and lab trials, collect data, prepare samples, and help bring innovative products to market.

Working with engineers and cross-functional teams, you will execute experiments, maintain equipment, document observations, and help ensure safety and quality in fast-paced