Technician Sensory (CPT)

About the role

Reporting to the Associate Manager, Sensory Cocoa Science, the Sensory Technician supports project execution for the Sensory and Product Insights (SPI) team at The Hershey Company's Technical Center and 19 East facilities. This role plays a critical part in delivering high-quality sensory testing by preparing samples, managing test logistics, maintaining laboratories and inventories, and supporting both professional panel and consumer research activities. At Hershey, we are committed to making a meaningful difference in the communities where we live, work, and do business, guided by our founder Milton Hershey’s vision and our employee value proposition, Lead Today. Create Tomorrow.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and execute sensory testing projects, including sample preparation, ballot programming, test setup, and test execution across Technical Center and 19 East facilities.
• Support descriptive analysis, consensus profiling, progressive profiling, discrimination testing, and routine product approval testing.
• Coordinate project schedules and maintain testing calendars to ensure project timelines are met.
• Receive, store, track, and manage sensory project samples across various temperature-controlled environments.
• Maintain sensory laboratories, storage areas, equipment, supplies, references, and inventories.
• Conduct online and in-store shopping for testing supplies, references, and panel support materials.
• Support consumer testing activities through sample preparation, packaging, and shipping.
• Assist with onboarding and training activities for panelists, employees, and external suppliers.
• Collaborate with sensory professionals, product development teams, lab operations, facilities teams, and employees across the organization.

Requirements

• No prior professional experience required.
• Experience in a laboratory, food manufacturing, food service, retail, or consumer packaged goods environment preferred.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
• Strong organizational, communication, and time management skills.
• Ability to work independently while partnering effectively with diverse teams.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to bend, climb step stools or ladders, and lift up to 50 pounds.
• Valid driver's license required.
• Education: High School Diploma or GED required.
• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a scientific discipline preferred.
• ServSafe certification preferred.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus wellness programs that support your physical and mental health
• Competitive pay, annual incentive opportunities, and a 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off, company holidays, and flexible ways of working where applicable
• Career development programs, learning opportunities, and internal mobility

Benefits may vary based on role, location, and eligibility.

Pay

The anticipated base salary range for this role is $58,080 to $72,600 per year. The actual base salary offered will depend on a variety of job‑related factors, including, but not limited to, experience, skill set, education, and training. In addition to a market‑competitive base salary, our Total Rewards package includes performance‑based incentives and a comprehensive, competitive benefits package designed to support overall physical, mental, and financial well‑being (as applicable).

Schedule

This is a continuous part-time position averaging approximately 20 hours per week. Work schedules may vary based on project needs, testing schedules, and business priorities.