Associate Scientist, R&D - Product

Kraft Heinz; Glenview (IL); On-site; USD 68,000 - 87,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player seeks an Associate Scientist in R&D to innovate in the Snacking sector. This role emphasizes collaboration across various departments to drive product development and quality improvement. You will engage in hands-on testing, data analysis, and commercialization efforts, ensuring high-quality outcomes for new and reformulated products. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, a critical thinker, and passionate about food science. Join a dynamic team that values creativity and collaboration while enjoying a comprehensive benefits package and a supportive work environment.

Benefits

Healthcare Coverage

Savings Plans

Wellbeing Resources

Paid Time Off

Flexible Work Arrangements

Recognition Programs

Qualifications

• BSc/MS in Food Science or related field required.
• Practical knowledge of food chemistry and processing in food manufacturing.

Responsibilities

• Support commercialization of new and reformulated products.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to achieve project goals.
• Conduct risk and feasibility assessments for projects.

Skills

Food Chemistry

Analytical Testing

Formulations

Critical Thinking

Problem-Solving

Education

BSc/MS in Food Science

BSc/MS in Chemical Engineering

BSc/MS in Microbiology

BSc/MS in Biochemistry

Job description

Job Description

Assoc Scientist, R&D – Product Dev, Snacking

This is a Research and Development (R&D) role focusing on project initiatives within our NA MCCS (Meats, Cheese, Coffee, and Snacking) Platform, with an emphasis on Snacking, particularly the Lunchables brand. The candidate will serve as an R&D resource for technical projects aimed at new product development, portfolio renovation, quality improvement, and brand maintenance. The role requires experience in developing and executing work plans, driving results across various settings, and involves designing and executing product testing, analyzing data, drawing conclusions, communicating results, and supporting product commercialization. Strong communication and teamwork skills are essential, as the role operates within a dynamic cross-functional environment. The candidate must manage multiple tasks and timelines concurrently.

Responsibilities

• Support and lead the commercialization of new and reformulated products and facilitate the transition from development to production.
• Collaborate with Operations, Business Units, Vendors, Quality, Regulatory, Finance, and Marketing to achieve results.
• Conduct risk and feasibility assessments for all projects.
• Create and modify formulas, processing procedures, and finished product specifications to ensure high-quality, consistent products.
• Engage with technical experts and category scientists to understand technologies and applications.
• Perform benchtop, pilot plant, and plant trials to support project objectives.
• Coordinate product tastings and sensory evaluations with cross-functional teams.
• Manage multiple research projects simultaneously, prioritizing tasks with supervisor guidance.
• Apply scientific principles to new situations and products, demonstrating critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Qualifications

• BSc/MS degree in Food Science, Food Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Microbiology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Life Sciences, or related fields.
• Practical knowledge of consumer goods, food chemistry, analytical testing, formulations, and processing in food manufacturing.
• Understanding of ingredient functionality and the interplay between ingredients, processes, and packaging.
• Excellent communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Detail-oriented self-starter with a passion for learning.
• Motivated to drive projects forward.
• Willingness to travel up to 30% based on business needs.

Our Total Rewards philosophy offers a broad spectrum of programs to support our diverse workforce and align with Kraft Heinz’s values and strategy.

Compensation and Benefits

Base Salary Range: $68,900 - $86,100

This role is eligible for a performance-based bonus as per plan terms and governing documents. Compensation may vary based on geographic location, experience, skills, and other factors.

Benefits include: Healthcare coverage, savings plans, wellbeing resources, paid time off, holidays, flexible work arrangements, recognition programs, and more. Specific offerings may vary by role, country, and employment status.

Location

Glenview R&D Center

Equal Opportunity Statement

Kraft Heinz is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity and inclusion. Applicants requiring accommodation may contact [e-mail] for assistance.