Sr Research Scientist

Job Overview

Job Location

The primary purpose of the Microbiological Lab Supervisor is to provide oversight and leadership for Micro lab services team at Technical Center site. The role ensures the timely and accurate flow of micro testing results to internal customers, supporting manufacturing quality systems, R&D, and CI.

Accountabilities

• Lead Advanced Analytical and Microbiological Testing Across Multiple Lines or Products
  Prompts and executes complex analytical and microbiological testing programs, including advanced environmental monitoring and high-risk product testing, across multiple lines or product families. Interprets data trends, identifies systemic issues, and recommends targeted follow-up investigations. Shares findings with cross-functional teams to support data-driven decisions on process and control adjustments.

• Manage QA Verification Programs and Refine Standards Across Area of Responsibility
  Coordinates QA verification activities—such as sampling plans, specifications checks, sensory programs, and stability monitoring—across a defined set of lines, products, or a site. Uses results to evaluate the effectiveness of current standards and identifies opportunities to refine specifications, sampling frequencies, or test methods. Works with leaders and peers to update procedures and ensure changes are implemented and monitored.

• Monitor Food Safety Programs and Lead Hazard Analysis at Area Level
  Executes food safety program monitoring—including sanitation verification, hygiene audits, allergen control validation, and environmental monitoring—across their area of responsibility. Uses monitoring outcomes and incident trends to support formal hazard analyses and to identify gaps in preventive and prerequisite controls. Recommends and supports implementation of improvements to food safety plans and associated verification steps.

• Support and Influence Incident Investigations and Systemic Corrective Actions
  Analyzes data from quality and food safety incidents, including test results, process flows, and operational records, to identify likely contributing factors and systemic issues. Partners with cross-functional teams to define investigation scopes and develop corrective and preventive actions that address root causes, not just symptoms. Tracks implementation and follow-up results to confirm that actions are effective and shares learnings with other teams or sites.

• Cook up Quality and Food Safety Reporting and Coach Junior SMEs
  Aggregates quality, food safety, and laboratory performance metrics across their area into reports or dashboards that highlight key risks and improvement opportunities. Presents insights to leaders and cross-functional partners and recommends prioritized actions to address recurring issues. Provides technical coaching to junior SMEs and technicians on best practices in testing, verification, and documentation.

Prior Experience

• B.S. in Food Microbiology, Food Science, or related science field.
• 3+ years of microbiology laboratory management experience.

Pay

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Schedule

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Benefits

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Benefits

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Company Information

The Hershey Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The policy of The Hershey Company is to extend opportunities to qualified applicants and employees on an equal basis regardless of an individual's race, color, gender, age, national origin, religion, citizenship status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, transgender status, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other categories protected by applicable federal, state or local laws.

The Hershey Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Minority/Female/Disabled/Protected Veterans.

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