Sr Research Scientist Sensory Innovation

The Hershey Company•Lower Swatara Township, PA

2d•$95,280 - $119,100•Onsite

About The Position

As a Sr Research Scientist, Sensory Innovation, you will serve as the sensory liaison to assigned brands, primarily supporting new product innovation. Reporting to the Senior Manager, Sensory Innovation, this role partners across Sensory & Product Insights, R&D and cross-functional teams to shape learning agendas, guide research strategies, and turn sensory and consumer data into clear, actionable recommendations.

Requirements

At least 3 years of relevant experience.
Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD degree in Food Science, Psychology, Statistics, or a related technical discipline with an emphasis in Sensory and Consumer Research
Experience should include research design, advanced statistical analysis, and communication of complex findings.
Proficiency with statistical analysis or programming software such as JMP, R, SPSS, SAS, Minitab, or similar is required.

Nice To Haves

Experience with sensory data collection systems such as EyeQuestion, Compusense, or RedJade is preferred.

Responsibilities

Independently and collaboratively design, collect, analyze, interpret, and report sensory and consumer research, delivering actionable recommendations.
Lead research primarily for innovation, while also supporting product improvements and margin enhancement initiatives for existing products.
Apply analytical sensory methods strategically alongside consumer testing to ensure project objectives are met.
Serve as a technical thought partner to cross-functional teams, helping shape learning agendas and research strategies.
Contribute to the development and implementation of new or improved sensory and consumer research capabilities that expand the department’s toolbox.
Build effective partnerships with cross-functional teams and internal stakeholders.