Senior Beverage R&D Lead: Product Innovation

Kraft Heinz, Inc.; Glenview (IL); Hybrid; USD 142,000 - 177,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health coverage

401k plan

Job summary

Kraft Heinz, Inc. is seeking an R&D Lead for Hydration Beverages at the Glenview, IL Innovation Center. The role drives near-, mid-, and long-term product development across North America for Capri Sun, Kool-Aid, and Mio, with cross-functional leadership and strategic direction.

Flexible hybrid schedule requires three days on-site and travel about 20%. The ideal candidate has a strong technical background, learning mindset, and ability to apply scientific principles.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree with 11+ years of experience or Master’s with 10+ years in a related field.
• Experience in beverages or ready-to-drink products is preferred.
• Proven ability to lead R&D product development and commercialization in a cross-functional environment.
• Strong understanding of ingredient functionality and DOE.

Responsibilities

• Lead category strategy and guide projects from concept to commercialization.
• Manage category budget and resource planning.
• Translate research and insights into actionable recommendations.
• Coach developers in test design, data analysis, and product commercialization.
• Ensure regulatory compliance, food safety, and speed to market.

Skills

Project management

Leadership

Cross-functional collaboration

Communication

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Food Science/Chemistry/C.E. or related

Master’s degree (preferred)

Job description

Kraft Heinz, Inc. is seeking an R&D Lead for Hydration Beverages at the Glenview, IL Innovation Center. The role drives near-, mid-, and long-term product development across North America for Capri Sun, Kool-Aid, and Mio, with cross-functional leadership and strategic direction.

Flexible hybrid schedule requires three days on-site and travel about 20%. The ideal candidate has a strong technical background, learning mindset, and ability to apply scientific principles.