Research Scientist

Overview: TekWissen is a global workforce management provider headquartered in Ann Arbor, Michigan that offers strategic talent solutions to our clients world-wide. Our client is an American multinational company and one of the largest chocolate manufacturers in the world. It also manufactures baked products, beverages and many more that are produced globally. Position: Research Scientist Location: Hershey, PA, 17033 Duration: 12 Months Job Type: Temporary Assignment Work Type: Onsite Role Overview The Research Scientist (Contract) supports high-complexity initiatives, leads workstreams within broader projects, and independently manages low-complexity initiatives. The role requires a low to moderate level of autonomy depending on project scope. This position focuses on developing technical expertise, strengthening problem-solving and critical thinking skills, and effectively communicating technical concepts across cross-functional teams. The candidate will progressively build influence, collaboration skills, and internal networks within the organization. Key Responsibilities 1. Project Leadership (90%) Lead product development projects focused on innovative chocolate products, including: Formulation development Ingredient development Product transformation interactions Execute product development across all stages: Bench-top prototyping Pilot plant trials Full-scale manufacturing Collaborate with cross-functional teams: RandD, Manufacturing, Engineering, Marketing, Quality, and Regulatory Assess and communicate the business and financial impact of projects Apply scientific principles and technical rigor in all development work Provide technical feasibility input for new product concepts Support supply chain initiatives to improve product quality and cost efficiency Lead ingredient shortage mitigation efforts to reduce business impact 2. Product and Process Improvement (10%) Support continuous improvement programs for product quality and manufacturing processes Contribute to cost optimization and process efficiency initiatives Cross-Functional Collaboration This role partners closely with: Marketing Manufacturing Engineering Quality and Regulatory Project Management Technology Development Typical Day / Core Activities Developing and testing chocolate formulations Conducting analytical testing on samples Supporting pilot plant production runs Performing competitive product assessments (sourcing, benchmarking, analysis) Required Skills and Competencies Technical Skills Experience in product development, innovation, or process optimization Ability to learn and apply new technical knowledge in development and commercialization Understanding of process platforms and scaling methodologies Familiarity with multidisciplinary domains: Sensory science Engineering Packaging Research Core Competencies Strong problem-solving and analytical thinking Excellent troubleshooting capability Effective decision-making and administrative skills Business and financial acumen Ability to influence cross-functional teams Strong written and verbal communication skills Adaptability and openness to change Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment Education and Experience Bachelor's degree in, Food Science, Chemistry, Biology, Chemical Engineering, Food Process Engineering, Bioengineering or related field 2 4 years of relevant experience required Experience in chocolate production, product innovation, or CPG industry is a plus Top Technical Skills Chocolate sample formulation and development Analytical testing techniques Pilot plant operation support Competitive product benchmarking and analysis TekWissen Group is an equal opportunity employer supporting workforce diversity. TekWissen is an emerging global human capital, recruitment and IT services organization. Operating since 2009, we draw upon more than a decade of staffing experience to deliver critical talent acquisition solutions and IT engagements for our clients. We're founded on a culture that is passionate about delivering tailored solutions, that create lasting partnerships. Our global footprint covers six countries: United States, Canada, Australia, India, United Kingdom and the Philippines. This allows us to work in close partnership with organizations and manage everything from global talent needs with demanding resourcing strategies, to single sites with lower recruitment volumes. TekWissen is an equal opportunity employer supporting workplace diversity.