Scientist, R&D - Imaging Lab

Kraft Heinz•Glenview, IL

7d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Imaging Lab Scientist supports the development and execution of digital and physical visualization solutions that enable packaging and product decisions across the Kraft Heinz North America portfolio. The role delivers mock-ups, 3D models, 3D-printed parts, printed packaging materials, photography, and product documentation while partnering with cross-functional teams to provide timely, reliable, and commercially relevant support. It also contributes creative problem-solving and innovative visualization approaches that help teams turn early ideas into actionable packaging decisions. The position involves hands-on Imaging Lab and production work, including operation of a Kongsberg cutting table, creation of print outputs for packaging materials, development of visual quality guides, photography, and support for 3D modeling and printing. The scientist manages multiple requests and projects, maintains organized files and production records, and supports safe and effective lab operations. The position is based at the Kraft Heinz Innovation Center in Glenview, Illinois. Employees may work virtually up to two days per week and are expected to work in person at least three days per work week. The role may require flexibility based on business and project needs.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Packaging, Graphic Communications, Design, or a related technical discipline.
At least 2 years of relevant experience.
Experience supporting digital and physical mock-up development, 3D modeling, 3D printing, package and label printing, photography, and product documentation in a lab, studio, or technical service environment.
Working knowledge of print production processes across film, carton, adhesive, and related packaging materials.
Experience developing or supporting visual quality standards such as color guides, defect guides, or comparable reference materials.
Ability to operate technical production equipment, including cutting and mock-up systems such as the Kongsberg cutting table.
Experience with 3D modeling and prototyping tools and ability to create practical models or printed outputs for packaging visualization and concept development.
Ability to train others on equipment use and support consistent lab workflows.
Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple requests, timelines, and priorities accurately and responsively.
Effective communication and interpersonal skills for working with cross-functional partners and external suppliers.
Ability to document work clearly, maintain execution consistency, and deliver quality outputs on time.
Experience translating early-stage concepts into practical digital or physical visualization outputs.
Creativity and innovation in solving visualization, mock-up, prototyping, or packaging-related challenges.
Willingness and ability to support hands-on lab and production activities as required.

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree.
Knowledge of packaging materials, visualization methods, mock-up production workflows, and 3D printing processes.
Familiarity with emerging digital tools or AI-enabled creative workflows.

Responsibilities

Deliver digital and physical mock-ups, 3D models, and 3D-printed outputs to help teams evaluate packaging and product concepts and communicate design intent.
Create package and label print outputs across film, carton, adhesive, and related materials.
Develop and maintain quality guides, including color and defect guides.
Lead photography and product documentation activities for project records and internal reference.
Operate the Kongsberg cutting table to produce physical mock-ups.
Train others in Kongsberg cutting table use as needed.
Support 3D modeling and 3D printing to create prototypes, concept models, and visualization tools.
Manage concurrent requests and projects across mock-ups, printing, guides, photography, and documentation while meeting timelines and quality expectations.
Partner with R&D, Marketing, Sales, Packaging Development, and external vendors to clarify needs and deliver suitable visualization solutions.
Help teams translate early-stage concepts into practical visual, digital, or physical outputs.
Apply creative problem-solving to improve mock-up approaches, workflows, and Imaging Lab support.
Support improvements to request intake, workflow coordination, and execution reliability.
Maintain organized files, production records, and documentation for continuity, traceability, and handoffs.
Support safe and organized lab operations through proper equipment use, adherence to lab procedures, and coordination of day-to-day work.