Supervisor R&D Production

The Hershey Company•Lower Swatara Township, PA

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The Supervisor, R&D Production is responsible for coordinating and executing product and process development activities that support innovation, scale-up, commercialization, and continuous improvement initiatives. This role oversees daily operations within the pilot plant and product development environment, ensuring projects are executed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with quality and regulatory standards. The position coordinates work assignments and schedules for Continuous Part Time (CPT) employees, manages resources and equipment readiness, and partners closely with scientists, engineers, and cross-functional stakeholders to advance development projects from concept through commercialization. Through strong technical knowledge, operational execution, and project coordination, this role helps deliver successful product and process innovations.

Requirements

1-3+ years of experience in research & development, product development, pilot plant operations, manufacturing, process development, or a related technical environment.
Experience supporting pilot plant, manufacturing, commercialization, or scale-up activities.
Experience coordinating project activities and managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Knowledge of GMP, food safety, sanitation, and quality systems.
Strong troubleshooting, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Biological Sciences, or a related technical field.
Relevant combination of education and directly related experience may be considered.

Nice To Haves

Experience scheduling and directing technical support resources or hourly personnel preferred.

Responsibilities

Coordinate and oversee daily pilot plant, laboratory, and development activities supporting product and process innovation, optimization, validation, and commercialization efforts.
Schedule, direct, and prioritize work assignments for Continuous Part Time (CPT) employees and other technical support resources to ensure projects are completed safely, efficiently, and according to project timelines.
Lead the execution of benchtop, pilot plant, plant trial, start-up, and validation activities, ensuring adherence to established procedures, product specifications, and quality standards.
Ensure laboratory and pilot plant equipment are properly prepared, maintained, cleaned, and operational to support development and production activities.
Support ingredient management, sample preparation, inventory control, lot tracking, documentation, and data collection required for product development projects.
Partner with scientists, engineers, manufacturing teams, and other cross-functional stakeholders to plan activities, troubleshoot issues, and advance projects through the development and commercialization process.
Identify technical, operational, or scheduling challenges and implement solutions to maintain project momentum and operational effectiveness.
Maintain compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), food safety requirements, sanitation standards, and workplace safety expectations.
Provide training, technical guidance, and day-to-day direction to CPT employees and technical support staff on equipment, processes, and operating procedures.
Support continuous improvement initiatives by identifying opportunities to improve efficiency, workflow reliability, equipment utilization, and technical execution.