Associate Engineer, Packaging Systems

Job Location:  Hershey, PA

Pay Level: 1B

Job Summary:

Reporting to the Sr Mgr Engineering, Packaging Systems based in Hershey, PA and working at the Tech Center, Manufacturing Locations, and Remote, the Associate Packaging Systems Engineer with direction participates in the development, execution, and implementation of low complexity projects requiring functional & industry expertise, functional knowledge, & advocacy while developing business relationships to help deliver business results. A successful candidate is expected to be Learning how to demonstrate and apply technical knowledge. Learning how to develop and share technical expertise within functional area and cross functionally within the organization. Learning problem solving skills & ability to think critically. Learning how to communicate technical subject matter written and verbally cross functionally and with manager. Learning how to influence cross functional team members and to build personal networks.

Specific Role Focus Area:

This position utilizes all aspects of conceptual Packaging Systems Engineering design, cost estimation techniques, system and project proposal development, supplier evaluations, equipment and system installation and start up, and successful transition of the system to the plant operations and maintenance staff.

This role will interact and partner with:

• Technical and professional employees within Global R&D and Tech Center Operations
• Plant Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations, and Quality Assurance
• Other Corporate Engineering functions (Project Management, Electrical, Packaging, Civil, Utilities)
• Quality and Regulatory Compliance
• Procurement
• Marketing
• Operations Business Development
• Manufacturing Alliances
• External Vendors

Role Responsibilities:

Assist in delivering Capital Projects:

• Assist Senior Level Project Managers in providing leadership for the execution of all phases of a capital project from project development thru project close out.
• Learn & develop how to leverage engineering knowledge, judgment, creativity, and experience to lead multiple disciplined engineering initiatives of high complexity and long duration.
• Thru application & development with Senior PM, learn how to provide technical direction to project teams that leads to the development of sound engineering alternatives and recommendations.

Capital Project Development and Execution:

• Provide technical analyses, develop alternatives (cost estimates, feasibility, specifications, and interpretation of requirements) and prepare recommendations.
• Design and provide the optimal packaging solution for a given project. These solutions will include packaging and control support for all phases of the capital projects including development of system concepts, design, cost estimating, system installation, check-out, commissioning, training, and successful transition of deliverables, including system operation manuals, maintenance documents, and technical knowledge to the plant staff as defined in Hershey’s Project Management process.
• Demonstrate a willingness to identify process and manufacturing alternatives that meet new business requirements or establish functional excellence. Evaluate and participate in cross-functional processes to diagnose root cause issues and provide options for resolution.
• Ensures all packaging systems project implementation activities are in full compliance with all corporate capital control policies and procedures. 

Collaboration and Networking:

• Network and build relationships with external equipment manufacturers and suppliers to identify/develop new technologies to help grow the Hershey Company’s technical capabilities.
• Provides packaging systems technical development, schedule, and budgeting recommendations during project development assessments.
• Collaborate with Sr Engineering peers to develop the skills required to provide packaging systems engineering functional evaluations, comprehensive project scopes, equipment schedules, and capital budgets.

Growth and Development:

• Develop understanding of role and business impact while identifying personal development gaps and develop action plans for growth in role and responsibility.
• Work with internal mentor to refine and implement development action plans and increase opportunities for exposure to Hershey functions external to engineering.
• Seek feedback from Sr level peers on increasing communication effectiveness and gain influence amongst project teams.

Qualifications:

• BS in Engineering or Engineering Technology (Mechanical / Electrical / Mechatronics / Engineering Technology majors preferred).
• 1-2 years of experience, Related Co-op/ Internship experience  preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities Required:

• Hands-on problem solver, focusing on detailed problem resolution and documentation
• Must possess the ability to understand and apply sound engineering solutions keeping in mind costs, schedules and operational performance
• Exhibit sound judgment, understanding and proficiency in the development of engineering solutions and have the ability to effectively evaluate, communicate and build consensus cross-functionality associated with recommendations on increasingly complex and fast paced projects
• Strong oral and written communication skills are critical Must have strong PC skills
• Ability and willingness to work effectively in a diverse, disciplined team environment and work with limited supervision Must have the demonstrated potential to accept new and challenging work assignments
• Must possess demonstrated basic technical knowledge in the packaging controls arena
• When directing and managing non-THC persons contracted to support the project implementation commitments, represents the Company in a manner as outlined in the Corporate Code of Business Ethics, and ensures all contractors and suppliers adhere to applicable Company safety, security, and contractual requirements.