R&D Pilot Plant Materials Technician

The Kraft Heinz Company•Glenview, IL

1d•$24•Onsite

About The Position

The R&D Pilot Plant Materials Technician is responsible for the ordering, receipt, storage, handling, and distribution of raw ingredients, packaging materials, and finished goods supporting Pilot Plant operations. This role ensures accurate inventory management, timely material flow, and compliance with safety, quality, and regulatory requirements. Working closely with R&D Developers, Quality, Pilot Plant Operations, and SBM teams, the Materials Technician plays a role in enabling efficient pilot-scale production, testing, and shipment of finished goods to distribution centers. The position also supports inventory systems, documentation, and special projects as assigned.

Requirements

Associate's degree in related field, or high school diploma with 2+ years of relevant manufacturing or pilot plant experience.
1–2 years of experience in materials coordination, logistics, warehousing, supply chain, or manufacturing support (food or regulated environment preferred).
Experience using inventory management or ERP systems (SAP preferred).
Basic understanding of inventory control, FIFO, and material handling practices.
Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment and manage multiple priorities.
Strong problem-solving, troubleshooting, and critical-thinking skills.
Effective written and verbal communication skills for internal and external interactions.
General understanding of applicable regulations (OSHA, FDA, USDA, EPA).
Proficiency with basic computer applications, including spreadsheets and databases (e.g., Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint).
Willingness and ability to learn new systems and processes as tools and applications evolve.

Nice To Haves

Working knowledge of HACCP, sanitation, and quality systems preferred.

Responsibilities

Submit, track, and manage purchase orders for common Pilot Plant materials.
Receive, store, issue, and ship raw materials, packaging supplies, and finished goods.
Maintain accurate inventory records, including FIFO rotation and compliance with KHMS policies.
Coordinate shipping and receiving activities with third-party dock and logistics partners.
Ensure accurate and timely data entry and transaction processing in SAP and other inventory systems.
Maintain complete and accurate shipping, receiving, and production documentation.
Support material holds, releases, and recall procedures in partnership with Quality.
Coordinate and expedite material flow to support planned Pilot Plant production schedules.
Partner closely with R&D developers, Pilot Plant technicians, engineers, maintenance, and leadership to support operational needs.
Provide troubleshooting and problem-solving support related to materials, inventory, and logistics.
Adhere to all safety, quality, GMP, sanitation, and regulatory requirements.
Maintain required safety training, lift truck certification, and PPE compliance.
Support Kraft Heinz Safety Process initiatives, including hazard identification, corrective actions, inspections, and safety meetings.
Participate in internal and external audits and assist with corrective action development as needed.
Maintain housekeeping and sanitation standards in all assigned areas.
Demonstrate sound judgment when ordering materials to meet budgetary expectations.
Support accurate financial recordkeeping and timely supplier payments.
Perform duties in alignment with company policies and guidelines.