R&D Sensory and Consumer Assistant

Job Purpose

The R&D Sensory and Consumer Assistant supports sensory and consumer testing activities through hands-on laboratory and kitchen-based work including sample preparation test execution data entry and documentation. Working closely with sensory and consumer scientists this role ensures accurate consistent execution of testing protocols while maintaining a safe clean and organized lab environment. The technician contributes to product development by reliably following standard operating procedures (SOPs) quality standards and food safety requirements.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities

Assist in the execution of routine sensory and consumer tests including sample preparation labeling serving samples to participants operating testing software recording observations taking photos and maintaining a clean and organized workspace.

Interact with descriptive panelists to foster an inclusive and positive testing environment; ensure samples palate cleansers utensils and supplies are available as needed.

Organize label and manage samples materials groceries and test inventory

Operate clean inspect and maintain laboratory and kitchen equipment and tools

Maintain lab cleanliness hygiene and compliance with GMP food safety and safety requirements including organization of storage areas and cooler clean-outs

Support documentation of test activities and results using digital systems and/or lab notebooks

Utilize sensory data management software (e.g. RedJade) to create start run and stop tests troubleshoot basic errors and set up studies

Collaborate with sensory and consumer scientists and cross-functional partners to support product development activities

Follow all safety policies PPE requirements and SOPs; support updates creation and validation of procedures as needed.

Expected Experience & Required Skills

High school diploma or equivalent

23 years of laboratory or kitchen experience required; experience in a sensory evaluation kitchen or consumer testing environment preferred

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

Experience with RedJade or other sensory data collection software preferred

Familiarity with kitchen and laboratory equipment (e.g. ovens microwaves air fryers scales and testing instruments) with the ability to learn calibration and basic troubleshooting

Working knowledge of kitchen GMPs and food safety practices

Intermediate cooking or culinary skills

Strong organizational skills and attention to detail with the ability to consistently follow SOPs safety requirements and documentation standards

Effective verbal and written communication skills including accurate sample labeling data recording and collaboration with team members

Self-motivated with strong interpersonal skills; ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment

Ability to balance multiple priorities and multitask

Experience processing data (e.g. compiling coding categorizing) is a plus

Work Environment & Schedule

.Relocation & Sponsorship: This role is based onsite at the Heinz Innovation Center in Warrendale PA. Relocation assistance and work authorization sponsorship are not available for this position.

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

.Onsite & reliable transportation: This is a fulltime onsite position at the Heinz Innovation Center in Warrendale PA. Reliable attendance and dependable transportation are required. R&D Assistants work on campus Monday through Friday following a standard daytime schedule to support daily lab operations sample preparation equipment setup/readiness and collaboration with R&D teams. Occasional flexibility may be needed for pilot plant runs or other projectbased activities within standard operational hours.

Compensation & Benefits Overview

Hourly Pay: Starting at $24/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 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.

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 .