Associate Research R&D Salty Pretzels
About The Position
The Research Assistant, Pretzels & Bold Snacking provides hands-on support for innovation, renovation, and process development activities across Dot's Pretzels and the broader Bold Snacking portfolio. Working closely with scientists and engineers, this role supports development across multiple snack platforms including pretzels, popcorn, extruded snacks, fried snacks, and baked crackers/snacks. The successful candidate will execute pilot plant and laboratory activities, assist with sample preparation and testing, maintain equipment and workspaces, and help generate technical data that supports the commercialization of new products and technologies. This position offers a unique opportunity to gain experience with food manufacturing processes while contributing to some of the most recognizable brands in snacking. This position is located at the Hershey Technical Center in Hershey, PA and reports to the Manager, Pretzels & Bold Snacking.
Requirements
- High School Diploma/GED with 3-4 years of related laboratory, manufacturing, food processing, technical, or pilot plant experience; OR Bachelor's degree in a scientific, technical, or related field with limited or no prior experience.
- Experience working with food processing equipment, manufacturing operations, or laboratory environments is preferred.
- Basic understanding of food processing operations and/or mechanical systems.
- Ability to safely operate laboratory and pilot plant equipment following established procedures.
- Strong attention to detail with accurate recordkeeping and data collection skills.
- Ability to learn new equipment, technologies, and food processing techniques.
- Effective verbal and written communication skills.
- Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities.
- Team-oriented with a positive, proactive, and adaptable approach.
- Comfortable working in laboratory, pilot plant, and manufacturing environments.
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to work around heat, noise, ingredients, and moving equipment.
Nice To Haves
- Technical or professional certifications are a plus.
- Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Engineering Technology, Biology, Chemistry, or a related field preferred.
Responsibilities
- Support pilot plant and laboratory trials by preparing ingredients, setting up equipment, collecting samples, and documenting observations.
- Operate pilot-scale food processing equipment under guidance, including extruders, fryers, ovens, mixers, sheeters, poppers, and seasoning systems.
- Monitor process conditions during trials and assist with adjustments to processing parameters such as temperature, moisture, airflow, and line speed.
- Prepare product samples for sensory evaluations, consumer testing, and internal reviews.
- Conduct basic analytical testing including moisture analysis, water activity measurement, texture evaluation, and color assessment.
- Maintain accurate technical records and organize laboratory data to support project teams.
- Assist with equipment setup, teardown, cleaning, sanitation, and basic maintenance activities.
- Maintain laboratory and pilot plant cleanliness, ingredient inventories, and compliance documentation.
- Partner effectively with R&D, Operations, Quality, and cross-functional stakeholders to support product development initiatives.
- Adhere to all safety, quality, and food safety requirements.
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage
- Wellness programs that support your physical and mental health
- Competitive pay
- Annual incentive opportunities
- 401(k) with company match
- Paid time off
- Company holidays
- Flexible ways of working where applicable
- Career development programs
- Learning opportunities
- Internal mobility
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
