R&D Analytical Science Assistant

Kraft Heinz, Inc.; Glenview (IL); On-site; USD 52,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Kraft Heinz, Inc. is seeking a skilled lab technician to support our R&D Innovation Center in Illinois. The role involves preparing test samples, conducting routine tests, and ensuring accurate data recording, with a focus on GMP and food safety.

You will assist with sample and equipment logistics, calibrate instruments, and help maintain organized inventories while collaborating with analytical scientists to compile reports and upload results into Lablynx.

Qualifications

• Associate degree or completion of a two-year technical program in Food Science, Biology, Chemistry, or a related field.
• Basic computer proficiency including Microsoft Office and data entry into laboratory or inventory systems.
• Familiarity with common laboratory equipment and willingness to learn calibration and troubleshooting.
• Ability to follow SOPs, safety protocols, and good laboratory practices.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple routine tasks.

Responsibilities

• Prepare test samples according to established procedures.
• Conduct routine laboratory tests, measurements, and evaluations; accurately record observations and data.
• Support procurement of samples and laboratory supplies; coordinate shipping and receiving samples and equipment.
• Organize, label, and manage samples, materials, and test inventory.
• Operate, clean, and calibrate laboratory equipment and tools (e.g., mixers, scales, ovens, viscometers, colorimeters).
• Maintain laboratory cleanliness, hygiene, and compliance with GMP, food safety, and safety requirements.
• Support analytical scientists with test execution, test report preparation, and uploading results into Lablynx.
• Follow all safety policies, PPE requirements, and SOPs.
• Manage chemical inventory and dispose of expired chemicals in accordance with chemical hygiene policies.
• Assist with movement of samples and instruments between internal and external laboratories as needed.

Skills

Basic lab skills

Microsoft Office

Data entry

Attention to detail

Team collaboration

Education

Associate degree / 2-year technical program in Food Science, Biology, Chemistry

Tools

Scales

Mixers

Ovens

Testing instruments

Job description

Job Responsibilities

• Prepare test samples according to established procedures
• Conduct routine laboratory tests, measurements, and evaluations; accurately record observations and data
• Support procurement of samples and laboratory supplies; coordinate shipping and receiving samples and equipment
• Organize, label, and manage samples, materials, and test inventory
• Operate, clean, and calibrate laboratory equipment and tools (e.g., mixers, scales, ovens, viscometers, colorimeters)
• Maintain laboratory cleanliness, hygiene, and compliance with GMP, food safety, and safety requirements
• Support analytical scientists with test execution, test report preparation, and uploading results into Lablynx
• Follow all safety policies, PPE requirements, and standard operating procedures (SOPs)
• Manage chemical inventory and dispose of expired chemicals in accordance with chemical hygiene policies
• Assist with movement of samples and instruments between internal and external laboratories as needed

Work hours: Occasional overtime may be required to support project timelines; however, regular overtime is expected to be minimal.

Qualifications

• Associate degree or completion of a two-year technical program in Food Science, Biology, Chemistry, or a related field, with 1 to 2 years of experience working in a laboratory, pilot plant, food production, or technical environment.
• Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) and data entry into laboratory or inventory systems.
• Familiarity with common laboratory equipment (e.g., scales, mixers, ovens, testing instruments), with the ability and willingness to learn calibration and basic troubleshooting
• Ability to follow standard operating procedures (SOPs), safety protocols, and good laboratory practices
• Strong attention to detail, organization skills, and ability to manage multiple routine tasks
• Effective communication skills and ability to work collaboratively in a team environment

Physical Demands

• Work is performed in an R&D Innovation Center laboratory, with occasional pilot plant exposure.
• Ability to stand and remain upright for extended periods during lab preparation, testing, and cleanup activities.
• Ability to walk and move frequently between lab benches, storage areas, and equipment stations.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull materials and equipment up to 50 lbs (e.g., ingredient containers, lab apparatus, sample boxes).
• Frequent use of hands for fine motor tasks such as measuring, weighing, labeling, and operating laboratory instruments.
• Frequent repetitive motion, including handling tools, containers, and data entry.
• Occasional bending, crouching, or stooping to access low storage, equipment, or sample placement.
• Occasional reaching below waist and at shoulder height to retrieve ingredients, supplies, or equipment.
• Must be able to wear and utilize required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including lab coats, gloves, hairnets, safety glasses, and hearing protection where applicable.
• Exposure to varying temperatures, including cold rooms, warm processing areas, or heated equipment during analytical testing support.
• Work may involve proximity to moving mechanical equipment.