Sr Research Scientist Sensory Innovation

The Hershey Company•Lower Swatara Township, PA

4d•Onsite

About The Position

Reporting to the Sr. Manager, Sensory Innovation and based at The Hershey Company Technical Center, this role leads multiple medium-complexity sensory and consumer research initiatives and supports more complex projects. The position requires expertise in sensory science, consumer research, statistics, and data visualization, with the ability to translate research findings into actionable business recommendations. Success in this role requires strong problem-solving, critical thinking, stakeholder influence, and effective communication across technical and non-technical audiences.

Requirements

Proven success applying sensory and consumer research to support new product launches and product improvements.
Strong knowledge of quantitative and qualitative consumer research methods (e.g., CLTs, HUTs, focus groups, ethnography, online surveys).
Experience with analytical sensory methods, including descriptive and discrimination testing.
Expertise in research design, statistical analysis, and translating complex data into actionable business insights.
Experience with DOE, Drivers of Liking, product/process optimization, and category assessments.
Proficiency with statistical software such as JMP, R, SPSS, SAS, Minitab, or similar tools.
Experience with sensory data management systems, preferably EyeQuestion, Compusense, or RedJade.
Curiosity and adaptability in applying emerging technologies, including AI-enabled analytics, text generation, and predictive modeling.
Strong collaboration, communication, organizational, and stakeholder management skills.
Demonstrated leadership, business acumen, and conflict management capabilities.
Proficiency in Microsoft 365 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently with minimal supervision.
MS in Food Science, Psychology, Statistics, or a related field with an emphasis in Sensory and Consumer Research and 2–4 years of relevant experience; or BS with 4–6 years of relevant experience.

Nice To Haves

Experience with Copilot or similar AI tools is a plus.
A degree or certification in Market Research is a plus.

Responsibilities

Serve as the sensory research lead for assigned brands.
Design, execute, analyze, and communicate sensory and consumer research studies independently and collaboratively.
Lead sensory research supporting innovation, product improvements, and margin enhancement initiatives.
Apply analytical sensory methods alongside consumer testing to meet project objectives.
Contribute to the development and implementation of new sensory and consumer research capabilities.