Packaging R&D Manager: Foodservice Innovation

Kraft Heinz; Illinois; On-site; USD 104,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare coverage

401k and life insurance

Wellbeing programs

Flexible work arrangements

Job summary

Kraft Heinz in Glenview, IL seeks a Manager, R&D - Packaging Development to lead packaging innovation from concept to commercialization. You will manage a team of developers and contractors, shape packaging strategies, and drive cross-functional projects across lab and production environments.

Strong leadership and technical depth in packaging are essential. The role emphasizes translating research into practical business impact, collaborating with Operations, Marketing, and other partners, and

Qualifications

• BS or MS in Packaging, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
• 6+ years packaging development experience in CPG, food & beverage (or MS 5+; PhD 4+).
• Proven ability to lead, coach, and motivate others.
• Experience leading packaging testing, qualification, and commercialization.
• Willingness to travel up to 30%.

Responsibilities

• Directly lead a team of Packaging developers and contractors.
• Lead packaging development and commercialization of materials and systems.
• Manage timelines, communicate progress, and escalate risks.
• Identify and solve packaging challenges meeting operational and customer needs.
• Ensure feasible, manufacturable packaging, especially for foodservice formats.
• Lead/guide testing, qualification, and commercialization with cross-functional teams.
• Develop junior team members and balance workloads.
• Influence project direction with Operations, Marketing, and partners.
• Translate research findings into clear business implications.

Skills

People leadership

Project management

Communication

DoE & statistics

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Packaging/Engineering degree

Job description

Kraft Heinz in Glenview, IL seeks a Manager, R&D - Packaging Development to lead packaging innovation from concept to commercialization. You will manage a team of developers and contractors, shape packaging strategies, and drive cross-functional projects across lab and production environments.

Strong leadership and technical depth in packaging are essential. The role emphasizes translating research into practical business impact, collaborating with Operations, Marketing, and other partners, and