Sr Scientist, R&D - Packaging Lab
About The Position
As the Senior Scientist for the R&D Packaging Lab at Kraft Heinz, you will coordinate the scheduling and planning of 3 to 4 lab assistants and monthly distribution testing, to meet weekly lab requests. In addition, you will train team and support packaging development and innovation activities by performing hands-on laboratory preparation, sample handling, testing, and documentation. You will be responsible for managing the lab daily activities, equipment calibration and maintenance. This role works closely with food scientists and product / packaging developers to ensure accurate execution of package testing, data collection, and maintenance of a safe, organized lab environment. The technician contributes to the development and refinement of packages through consistent application of protocols, quality standards, and operational excellence.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in a Science or related field
- 3-5 years of laboratory, mechanical, pilot plant, or technical experience
- Computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office (Excel, Word) and data entry into lab or inventory systems and data analysis experience, Microsoft Word
- Familiarity with laboratory equipment such as scales, calipers, and other testing instruments, with the ability to learn calibration and basic troubleshooting
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to accurately develop and follow, SOPs, safety procedures, and documentation requirements.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills, including proper sample labeling, data recording, and collaboration with scientists and team members
- Demonstrated ability to work both independently and within a team in a fast-paced technical environment
Nice To Haves
- Emphasis on packaging in Bachelor's degree
Responsibilities
- Coordinate and schedule all lab assistant workflows and all distribution testing
- Monitor Lab Assistants activities, testing and reporting, providing direction, coaching as needed, ensuring accuracy and executional excellence
- Develop package testing reporting templates and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP’s)
- Identify opportunities for new/different/upgraded equipment to meet packaging community technical needs and customize protocols for Kraft Heinz
- Maintain calibration schedule and coordinate repairs of equipment with internal maintenance or external equipment vendors, writing and tracking Purchase Orders and coordination of equipment shipping
- Be fully trained and train lab assistants and developers on package testing equipment, referring to both ASTM, ISTA and internal test methods and safety protocols and certifications where needed
- Conduct routine laboratory testing (including full ISTA 3E pallet testing, materials testing) measurements, evaluations, package inspections; accurately recording observations, with pictures and data and outputs from packaging equipment (e.g. top load graphs and raw data) with data reporting documentation
- Support Lab Manager on Distribution Test scheduling and Incoming pallet and environmental chambers monitoring
- Organize, label, and manage materials, and test inventory
- Operate, inspect, and calibrate laboratory equipment and tools (e.g., vacuum chambers, Instron, compression testers, etc) and coordinate external calibration as needed
- Maintain lab cleanliness, hygiene, and compliance with GLP (Good Laboratory Practices), and safety requirements, organizing lab storage and cooler clean outs
- Track /monitor equipment check outs and returns and calibration documentation
- Assist in packaging material preparation for testing
- Collaborate with R&D packaging developers and cross-functional teams to support packaging development work
- Follow all safety policies, PPE requirements, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), updating/creating/validating procedures where needed
- Operate a forklift and electric pallet mover (with on-site training and certification)
Benefits
- Meaningful and flexible spectrum of programs that equitably support our diverse workforce and their families
- Coverage for employees (and their eligible dependents) through affordable access to healthcare, protection, and saving for the future
- Plans tailored to meet you and your family’s needs
- Events, resources, and learning opportunities that inspire a physical, social, emotional, and financial well-being lifestyle
- Medical
- Prescription Drug
- Dental
- Vision
- Screenings/Assessments
- Paid Time Off
- Company Holidays
- Leave of Absence
- Flexible Work Arrangements
- Recognition
- Training
- Employee Assistance Program
- Wellbeing Programs
- Family Support Programs
- 401k
- Life
- Accidental Death & Dismemberment
- Disability
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
