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Senior Process Development, Engineer Salty R&D
Hershey, PAPosted 4 weeks ago
Full-timeonsitesenior
Job Description
Summary of major duties:
Process Development & Optimization Across Multiple Platforms
• Develop, optimize, and validate processes for multiple snack platforms including:
• Popcorn: oil popping, air popping, seasoning application, moisture management
• Extruded Snacks: expanded/pressed expansion, dough systems, thermal profiles, cutting/forming
• Pretzels: dough mixing, sheeting, proofing, caustic dip, baking, drying
• Fried Snacks: slicing/extrusion, blanching (if applicable), frying, oil turnover, filtration, de oiling
• Baked Snacks: lamination, sheeting, bake profile, moisture distribution, textural development
• Design and conduct experiments to optimize throughput, yield, energy use, texture, color, and product consistency.
• Develop robust engineering standards for key operations such as oil management, airflow, heat distribution, and hydration systems.
Scale Up, Commercialization & Factory Support
• Lead pilot-scale and full-scale trials for new processes, equipment modifications, and technology introductions.
• Partner with Operations and Engineering on equipment commissioning, FAT/SAT, and process validation.
• Troubleshoot complex manufacturing challenges (e.g., texture variability, oil degradation, seasoning adhesion, expansion inconsistency, heat distribution issues).
• Establish detailed process guides, operating windows, and critical control parameters for manufacturing teams.
• Support multiple sites and travel as required for technical troubleshooting and startup support.
Process Validation, Data Analysis & Technical Documentation
• Develop process validation plans, including DOE, statistical analysis, and capability assessments.
• Analyze process data (temperature, pressure, moisture, airflow, oil quality metrics) to identify trends and opportunities.
• Document technical findings, process learnings, scale up recommendations, and engineering SOPs.
• Ensure all processes meet regulatory, quality, and food safety requirements.
Cross-Functional Collaboration & Project Leadership
• Serve as the engineering lead on cross-functional innovation teams.
• Partner with R&D Product Developers to ensure alignment between formulation and process design.
• Partner with Procurement and suppliers on new ingredient impacts, equipment innovations, or new technology exploration.
• Present technical risks, feasibility assessments, and recommendations to leadership.
Technical Capability Growth & Continuous Improvement
• Contribute to long-term platform capability roadmaps in areas such as frying technology, extrusion capability, airflow/baking systems, and seasoning application.
• Identify and implement productivity improvements, energy reduction opportunities, and process simplification strategies.
• Stay current on emerging snack processing technologies and equipment advancements.
Process Development & Optimization Across Multiple Platforms
• Develop, optimize, and validate processes for multiple snack platforms including:
• Popcorn: oil popping, air popping, seasoning application, moisture management
• Extruded Snacks: expanded/pressed expansion, dough systems, thermal profiles, cutting/forming
• Pretzels: dough mixing, sheeting, proofing, caustic dip, baking, drying
• Fried Snacks: slicing/extrusion, blanching (if applicable), frying, oil turnover, filtration, de oiling
• Baked Snacks: lamination, sheeting, bake profile, moisture distribution, textural development
• Design and conduct experiments to optimize throughput, yield, energy use, texture, color, and product consistency.
• Develop robust engineering standards for key operations such as oil management, airflow, heat distribution, and hydration systems.
Scale Up, Commercialization & Factory Support
• Lead pilot-scale and full-scale trials for new processes, equipment modifications, and technology introductions.
• Partner with Operations and Engineering on equipment commissioning, FAT/SAT, and process validation.
• Troubleshoot complex manufacturing challenges (e.g., texture variability, oil degradation, seasoning adhesion, expansion inconsistency, heat distribution issues).
• Establish detailed process guides, operating windows, and critical control parameters for manufacturing teams.
• Support multiple sites and travel as required for technical troubleshooting and startup support.
Process Validation, Data Analysis & Technical Documentation
• Develop process validation plans, including DOE, statistical analysis, and capability assessments.
• Analyze process data (temperature, pressure, moisture, airflow, oil quality metrics) to identify trends and opportunities.
• Document technical findings, process learnings, scale up recommendations, and engineering SOPs.
• Ensure all processes meet regulatory, quality, and food safety requirements.
Cross-Functional Collaboration & Project Leadership
• Serve as the engineering lead on cross-functional innovation teams.
• Partner with R&D Product Developers to ensure alignment between formulation and process design.
• Partner with Procurement and suppliers on new ingredient impacts, equipment innovations, or new technology exploration.
• Present technical risks, feasibility assessments, and recommendations to leadership.
Technical Capability Growth & Continuous Improvement
• Contribute to long-term platform capability roadmaps in areas such as frying technology, extrusion capability, airflow/baking systems, and seasoning application.
• Identify and implement productivity improvements, energy reduction opportunities, and process simplification strategies.
• Stay current on emerging snack processing technologies and equipment advancements.