Assoc Sci, R&D - Product Dev

The Kraft Heinz Company•Glenview, IL

3d•$68,900 - $86,100

About The Position

This Research and Development role leads project initiatives across the Core Snacking categories (Lunchables, P3, and OM Bites) within the Meat, Cheese, Coffee & Snacking Business Unit. The Associate Scientist executes and/or drives technical projects focused on quality improvements, renovation, supply resiliency, value engineering, and brand maintenance. The role requires a technical background, strong written and verbal communication, and the ability to apply prior learning and scientific principles to new situations. The successful candidate manages concurrent assignments with manager guidance, collaborates effectively, and applies creative solutions. The position is responsible for developing and commercializing products, renovating existing products, reviewing and evaluating ingredients, and delivering cost savings across the Snacking Category. It works with Packaging R&D, Consumer Experience, Quality, Operations, Manufacturing, Project Management, Marketing, and Sales to scope and execute projects. Technical project work includes prototype development, cost evaluations, factory trials, product specifications and factory documents, recipe and label development, and shelf-life assessment. Other activities include risk and feasibility assessments, coordinating product tastings and sensory evaluations, and setting up systems for new ingredients and finished goods. The role is located at the Glenview R&D Center and requires willingness to travel 30%. The position offers a base salary range of $68,900 to $86,100 and is eligible for a performance-based bonus. Kraft Heinz describes benefits and wellbeing programs that may vary by role and other factors, including healthcare coverage, paid time off, company holidays, leave of absence, flexible work arrangements, training, employee assistance and wellbeing programs, family support programs, a 401(k), life insurance, accidental death and dismemberment coverage, and disability coverage.

Requirements

Bachelor of Science in Food Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
Solid understanding of food chemistry, analytical testing, formulations, and processing used in food manufacturing.
Understanding of ingredient functionality and the interrelationship of ingredients, process, and packaging.
Good communication, critical-thinking, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to manage and prioritize multiple assignments and tasks concurrently.
Willingness to travel 30%.

Nice To Haves

Internship or co-op experience in the food or consumer products industry.

Responsibilities

Develop and commercialize products across the Snacking Category.
Renovate existing products and evaluate ingredients.
Deliver cost savings across the Snacking Category.
Collaborate with Packaging R&D, Consumer Experience, Quality, Operations, Manufacturing, Project Management, Marketing, and Sales to scope and execute projects aligned with business objectives.
Lead technical project activities, including prototype development, cost evaluations, factory trials, product specification development, factory document generation, recipe and label development, and shelf-life assessment.
Conduct risk and feasibility assessments.
Coordinate with cross-functional teammates to organize product tastings and sensory evaluations.
Set up systems for new ingredients and finished goods.
Manage multiple assignments and tasks concurrently, prioritizing work with manager guidance.