Job Location: Hershey, PA
Summary:
Product and process optimization leadership including but not limited to ingredient and recipe changes, product quality improvements, supply continuity initiatives, manufacturing technical services, process improvements, and new technology applications as assigned.
Responsibilities:
•Project management for product optimization projects and cost savings initiatives
•Lead cross functional teams on undertaking projects of strategic importance and complexity from concept through implementation with responsibility for development, validation, and industrialization for sustainability. This work is usually performed in a laboratory, pilot plant and manufacturing environment utilizing equipment and scientific and analytical instrumentation.
•Possess full working technical knowledge of product and process development and optimization, including formula and process development, optimization, manufacturing validation and implementation.
•Demonstrated application of food science and process engineering principles in developing manufacturing solutions with a sound understanding of the interaction between process unit operations and product physical and sensory properties.
•Possess time management skills and the ability to prioritize and manage multiple priorities in an expedient manner, understanding the required business objectives, developing solutions and schedules, and efficient and expedient project executions.
•Working knowledge of Food Science and Engineering principles, Quality Assurance, Good Manufacturing Practices.
Qualifications:
•Excellent written and verbal communication skills
•Strong teamwork skills, including the ability to mentor and train others
•Strong interpersonal skills in communication, organization and problem solving
•Experience operating lab and pilot scale equipment/instrumentation and working in a manufacturing plant
•Demonstrated ability to work independently, exercising a moderate level of judgment in project execution.
•Demonstrate attention to details required to deliver results with sound project planning and project management skills.
•Proficient computer literacy, fluent with Microsoft Office Suite
•Ability to work in a team environment and independently in a flexible work environment with changing priorities
•Ability to accommodate unusual and extended work hours as required for project completion
•Ability to travel up to 25%
Experience & Education:
•Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Chemical, Food Process, or Mechanical Engineering, Chemistry, or Biology with minimum four years applicable work experience or a master’s degree with a minimum of 2 years of applicable work experience.
•Work experience should span from laboratory to manufacturing environment. Strong preference for confectionery or food manufacturing experience and dual degree candidates in Food Science and Chemical, Food Process or mechanical Engineering.