Senior Scientist, R&D - Packaging Development, Global Disruptive Innovation

Kraft Heinz • Glenview, IL

1d

About The Position

The Senior Scientist, Packaging Developer is part of Kraft Heinz’s Global Disruptive Innovation R&D team. The role works with one to three small, cross-functional teams (“pods”) using the Agile @ Scale framework to develop innovative packaging solutions informed by consumer needs. The Senior Scientist contributes to the Build and In-Market Validation phases, collaborating with the Core Pod Team to apply design principles and guardrails. Development proceeds through rapid prototypes and benchtop experiments, with promising solutions advancing to pilot-plant trials and factory scale-up.

Working with the R&D Technical Lead on sprint activities, the Package Developer owns specific technical workstreams and influences solution development. Success is measured by validating consumer behavior and quantitative objectives and key results across desirability, feasibility, and viability. The role also supports cross-functional work related to consumer insights, marketing, and financial viability.

The position is based at the Glenview R&D Center. The posted new-hire base salary range is $83,400–$104,200, and the position is eligible for a performance-based bonus. Compensation may vary based on factors including geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Packaging, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related scientific field and at least four years of relevant experience, or a master’s degree and at least three years of related experience.
• Proven proficiency across all aspects of package development and the commercialization process.
• Desire to learn and apply Agile ways of working.
• Strong drive for results and willingness to experiment, valuing progress over perfection.
• Comfort operating with high levels of autonomy and complexity.
• Willingness to think and do things differently.
• Growth mindset, with curiosity and commitment to lifelong learning.
• Excellent communication, influencing, and problem-solving skills.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with multiple packaging formats and technologies.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the R&D Technical Lead to prioritize package development tasks.
• Represent packaging on the cross-functional team.
• Improve the consumer experience through packaging.
• Lead all aspects of package development, including primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging.
• Explore and evaluate potential suppliers and development partners.
• Complete rapid prototyping and iterative solution development to achieve design principles.
• Innovate within Procurement, Legal, Food Safety, and Quality project guardrails.
• Scale promising solutions for plant trials and product launch.
• Design and execute packaging testing and qualifications.
• Adopt Agile ways of working and the Agile @ Scale playbook, and provide feedback on the developing process.
• Support cross-functional project workstreams as needed.
• Contribute to required technical documentation, including specifications.

Benefits

• Performance-based bonus eligibility.
• Healthcare coverage for employees and eligible dependents.
• Dental insurance.
• Vision insurance.
• Paid time off.
• Company holidays.
• Leave of absence.
• Flexible work arrangements.
• Recognition and training.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Wellbeing programs and family support programs.
• 401(k).
• Life insurance.
• Accidental Death & Dismemberment coverage.
• Disability coverage.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior