Counsel - Global Patents and Innovation

Kraft Heinz•Chicago, IL

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

Here at Kraft Heinz, we believe that great people make great companies. When you join our table, you can expect access to an array of holistic wellness benefits and perks, including medical, dental and vision coverage, 7% 401(k) matching, Business Resource Groups (BRGs) to help foster diversity, inclusion, and belonging for all employees, an industry-leading total rewards package that emphasizes a high discretionary bonus. Benefits begin immediately upon hire for salaried employees. In joining our Global Patents and Innovation Team, you will provide legal counsel to the R&D organization to ensure current and future innovations are appropriately protected. You will be expected to bring expertise in patent preparation and prosecution, freedom‑to‑operate analysis, intellectual property protection strategy, trade secrets, and R&D agreements. This is a hybrid role requiring 3 days onsite weekly out of 1 of 4 primary locations: World HQ in downtown Chicago, IL; R&D Center in Glenview, IL; Kraft Heinz Innovation Center - Warrendale, PA; or Co-HQ in downtown Pittsburgh, PA.

Requirements

3+ years of patent experience (in-house experience preferred).
Juris Doctor from an accredited law school with strong academic credentials and specialized patent experience.
Registered to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
Science or technology background in chemistry, biology, engineering, or a related field.
Experience preparing and prosecuting chemical and packaging‑related patent applications.
Advise R&D on patent prosecution strategy, risks, and portfolio development.
Negotiate R&D agreements and advising on their appropriate use.
Expertise includes conducting freedom‑to‑operate analyses and assessing third‑party patent risk.

Responsibilities

Serve as the primary legal resource for designated business units and technology areas within R&D as part of our Global Patents and Innovation team.
Advise R&D on intellectual property protection strategies, including patent preparation, prosecution decisions, portfolio development, and risk assessment.
Drive strategic patent filing decisions aligned with innovation roadmaps and business priorities.
Draft, review, and negotiate R&D-related agreements, including non-disclosure, material transfer, joint development, and license agreements.
Advise on the appropriate structure and use of R&D agreements to protect IP ownership, exclusivity, and trade secrets.
Conduct and advise on freedom‑to‑operate reviews for new technologies and products entering the market.
Develop and deliver intellectual property–related training for R&D and other internal stakeholders.
Manage and oversee outside counsel to ensure quality and cost‑effective legal support.
Support compliance with company policies related to signatory authority, ethics, and trade secret protection.