Research Assistant, Process Development — Snack Innovation

Pretzels, Inc; Hershey (PA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health & Wellbeing

401(k) with company match

Paid time off

Career development

Job summary

The Hershey Company seeks a Research Assistant, Process Development at the Hershey Technical Center in Hershey, PA, to support development and optimization of salty snacks manufacturing processes, including popcorn, pretzels, and crackers. You will work with Process Development Engineers and cross‑functional teams in pilot plant and laboratory settings.

You will conduct experiments, collect data, prepare samples, maintain equipment, and help day‑to‑day operations with safety and quality in focus.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma/GED; 3–4 years of related experience.
• Technical certification preferred.
• Experience in lab or pilot plant environments is a plus.
• Strong attention to detail and data recording.
• Ability to learn processing equipment and analytical tools.
• Strong communication and teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Support pilot plant and laboratory trials by preparing materials and documenting observations.
• Operate and maintain pilot-scale food processing equipment.
• Prepare product samples for sensory and internal evaluations.
• Conduct basic analytical testing and maintain technical records.
• Assist with inventory management and lot tracking.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and compliant work environment.
• Collaborate with engineers to support process development.

Skills

Communication

Teamwork

Organizational skills

Attention to detail

Adaptable mindset

Education

High School Diploma/GED

Associate's/Bachelor's preferred

Job description

The Hershey Company seeks a Research Assistant, Process Development at the Hershey Technical Center in Hershey, PA, to support development and optimization of salty snacks manufacturing processes, including popcorn, pretzels, and crackers. You will work with Process Development Engineers and cross‑functional teams in pilot plant and laboratory settings.

You will conduct experiments, collect data, prepare samples, maintain equipment, and help day‑to‑day operations with safety and quality in focus.