Research & Development Packaging Lab Assistant

Job Purpose

As a Research & Development Packaging Lab Assistant for Kraft Heinz you will support packaging development and innovation activities by performing hands-on laboratory preparation sample handling testing and documentation. 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

Be fully trained on package testing protocols both ASTM ISTA and internal test methods and safety protocols and certifications where needed

Conduct routine laboratory testing (including full ISTA 3E pallet testing E-Comm 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 reporting documentation

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 GMP 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 shipping of samples and post-processing of 3D prints

Train R&D Packaging Developers on Packaging Lab equipment use and equipment safety procedures

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

Associates degree in related technical or scientific field or high school diploma with 2 years of relevant laboratory manufacturing pilot plant mechanical or technical experience.

Basic computer proficiency including Microsoft Office (Excel Word) and data entry into lab or inventory systems

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 follow SOPs safety procedures and documentation requirements. Effective 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 or Warrendale PA. R&D Technicians are 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.

Compensation & Benefits Overview

Hourly Pay: Starting at $28/hour with final offer based on experience skills and internal equity.

Benefits: We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes but not limited to: Medical Dental and Vision Insurance Health Reimbursement Account/Health Savings Account (HSA) Pet Insurance Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Supplemental Life Insurance and so much more!

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 of time during shift.

Ability to walk and move frequently between lab benches storage areas and equipment stations.

Ability to sit for extended periods of time during shift.

Ability to frequently 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.

Benefits: Coverage for employees (and their eligible dependents) through affordable access to healthcare protection and savingfor the future we offer plans tailored to meet you and your familys needs. Coveragefor benefits will be in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans and associated governing plan documents.

Wellbeing: We offer events resources and learning opportunities that inspire aphysical social emotional and financial well-being lifestyle for our employees and their families.

Youll be able to participate in a variety of benefits and wellbeing programs that may vary by role country region union status and other employment status factors for example:

• Physical - Medical Prescription Drug Dental Vision Screenings/Assessments

• Social - Paid Time Off Company Holidays Leave of Absence Recognition Training

• Emotional Employee Assistance Program Wellbeing Programs Family Support Programs

• Financial 401kLife Accidental Death & Dismemberment Disability

Location(s)

Kraft Heinz is an Equal Opportunity Employer that prohibits discrimination or harassment of any type. All qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race color national origin age sex sexual orientation gender gender identity or expression disability status protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law. Applicants who require an accommodation to participate in the job application or hiring process should contact .