Sr Scientist, R&D - Packaging Lab

Job Purpose  

​​As the Senior Scientist for the R&D Packaging Lab at Kraft Heinz, you will coordinate the scheduling and planning of 3 to 4 lab assistants and monthly distribution testing, to meet weekly lab requests.  In addition, you will train team and support packaging development and innovation activities by performing hands-on laboratory preparation, sample handling, testing, and documentation. You will be responsible for managing the lab daily activities, equipment calibration and maintenance.  This role works closely with food scientists and product/packaging developers to ensure accurate execution of package testing, data collection, and maintenance of a safe, organized lab environment. The technician contributes to the development and refinement of packages through consistent application of protocols, quality standards, and operational excellence. ​  

Essential Functions & Responsibilities  

• ​​Coordinate and schedule all lab assistant workflows and all distribution testing 

• ​Monitor Lab Assistants activities, testing and reporting, providing direction, coaching as needed, ensuring accuracy and executional excellence 

• ​Develop package testing reporting templates and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP’s) 

• ​Identify opportunities for new/different/upgraded equipment to meet packaging community technical needs and customize protocols for Kraft Heinz 

• ​Maintain calibration schedule and coordinate repairs of equipment with internal maintenance or external equipment vendors, writing and tracking Purchase Orders and coordination of equipment shipping 

• ​Be fully trained and train lab assistants and developers on package testing equipment, referring to both ASTM, ISTA and internal test methods and safety protocols and certifications where needed 

• ​Conduct routine laboratory testing (including full ISTA 3E pallet testing, materials testing) measurements, evaluations, package inspections; accurately recording observations, with pictures and data and outputs from packaging equipment (e.g. top load graphs and raw data) with data reporting documentation 

• ​Support Lab Manager on Distribution Test scheduling and Incoming pallet and environmental chambers monitoring  

• ​Organize, label, and manage materials, and test inventory 

• ​Operate, inspect, and calibrate laboratory equipment and tools (e.g., vacuum chambers, Instron, compression testers, etc) and coordinate external calibration as needed 

• ​Maintain lab cleanliness, hygiene, and compliance with GLP (Good Laboratory Practices), and safety requirements, organizing lab storage and cooler clean outs 

• ​Track/monitor equipment check outs and returns and calibration documentation 

• ​Assist in packaging material preparation for testing  

• ​Collaborate with R&D packaging developers and cross-functional teams to support packaging development work 

• ​Follow all safety policies, PPE requirements, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), updating/creating/validating procedures where needed  

• ​Operate a forklift and electric pallet mover (with on-site training and certification) ​ 

Expected Experience & Required Skills 

• ​​Bachelor’s degree in a Science or related field, emphasis on packaging, preferred 

• ​3-5 years of laboratory, mechanical, pilot plant, or technical experience 

• ​Computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office (Excel, Word) and data entry into lab or inventory systems and data analysis experience, Microsoft Word 

• ​Familiarity with laboratory equipment such as scales, calipers, and other testing instruments, with the ability to learn calibration and basic troubleshooting 

• ​Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to accurately develop and follow, SOPs, safety procedures, and documentation requirements. 

• ​Strong verbal and written communication skills, including proper sample labeling, data recording, and collaboration with scientists and team members 

• ​Demonstrated ability to work both independently and within a team in a fast-paced technical environment​ 

Work Environment & Schedule 

This position is based onsite full-time at the Kraft Heinz R&D Innovation Center in Glenview, IL. This role is required to work on campus Monday through Friday, following a standard schedule, to support daily lab operations, sample preparation and testing, equipment readiness, and collaboration with the packaging development team. Work may occasionally require flexibility to accommodate multiple pallet tests or project-based support within operational hours. 

Physical Requirements   

Physical demands include but are not limited to: 

• ​​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., cases of materials and filled packages, containers, lab apparatus, sample boxes) and 25 lbs. overhead 

• ​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 packages/cases, 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, coolers, freezers, warm processing areas, or heated equipment during pilot plant support. 

• ​Work may involve proximity to moving mechanical equipment and cleaning agents used in sanitation processes.​ 

This job description is not designed to cover or contain all duties or responsibilities that are required of the role. Duties or responsibilities may change or be added with or without notice.