Packaging R&D Associate Scientist – Innovation & Trials

The Kraft Heinz Company; Glenview (IL); On-site; USD 69,000 - 86,000; Full time

Job summary

The Kraft Heinz Company in Glenview, IL is seeking an Associate Scientist in R&D - Packaging Development. You will support packaging commercialization from concept to implementation, lead lower-complexity initiatives, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive innovation, renovation, sustainability, and cost optimization.

The role emphasizes developing packaging performance testing, creating specifications, and managing multiple projects with hands-on lab and plant work.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Packaging, Engineering, Material Science, or an adjacent technical discipline.
• Experience or strong interest in the food or consumer packaged goods industry.
• Foundational knowledge of packaging science, materials, and testing protocols.
• Understanding of packaging functionality and the interaction between packaging, product, and processing.
• Ability to work effectively in office, laboratory, and manufacturing environments.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Self-motivated approach, strong attention to detail, sense of urgency, and eagerness to learn.
• Willingness to travel 30% based on business needs.

Responsibilities

• Support and lead packaging commercialization activities for new and renovated package launches from concept through implementation.
• Serve as a proactive technical resource by leading lower-complexity initiatives and supporting more complex projects.
• Partner with cross-functional teams to execute projects across innovation, renovation, sustainability, brand maintenance, cost optimization, and other strategic priorities.
• Assess project risks and feasibility to support sound technical decision-making.
• Design and execute plant trials across a range of products and packaging materials to advance project objectives.
• Develop and lead packaging performance testing and evaluations to ensure robust analysis of packaging variables.
• Write detailed technical trial plans, testing protocols, and summary reports.
• Create and maintain packaging specifications, manufacturing procedures, finished product specifications, and related database documentation.
• Manage multiple assignments simultaneously with supervisor guidance and possess the ability to prioritize between a variety of business initiatives.
• Apply scientific learning to new situations while demonstrating critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Skills

Packaging knowledge

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Time management

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Packaging, Engineering, or Materials Science

Job description

The Kraft Heinz Company in Glenview, IL is seeking an Associate Scientist in R&D - Packaging Development. You will support packaging commercialization from concept to implementation, lead lower-complexity initiatives, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive innovation, renovation, sustainability, and cost optimization.

The role emphasizes developing packaging performance testing, creating specifications, and managing multiple projects with hands-on lab and plant work.