Sr Scientist, R&D - Packaging Lab

The Kraft Heinz Company • Glenview, IL

21h • Onsite

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. Kraft Heinz is a global food company with a delicious heritage. With iconic and emerging food and beverage brands around the world, we deliver the best taste, fun and quality to every meal table we touch. We’re on a mission to disrupt not only our own business, but the global food industry. A consumer obsession and unexpected partnerships fuel our progress as we drive innovation across every part of our company. Around the world, our people are connected by a culture of ownership, agility and endless curiosity. We also believe in being good humans, who are working to improve our company, communities, and planet. We’re proud of where we’ve been – and even more thrilled about where we’re headed – as we nourish the world and lead the future of food.

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

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

• Coverage for employees (and their eligible dependents) through affordable access to healthcare, protection, and saving for the future, we offer plans tailored to meet you and your family’s needs.
• 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

What This Job Offers

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