R&D Sweetener & Salt Lab Assistant
Glenview, IL - USA
Job Summary
Job Description
Job Purpose
The R&D Sweetener & Salt Lab Assistant supports product development and innovation activities for the Global Sweetener & Salt Science & Technology team at Kraft Heinz. This role is responsible for hands-on laboratory preparation sample handling testing and documentation in support of research and development projects. Working closely with food scientists and product developers the technician ensures accurate execution of test formulas reliable data collection and maintenance of a safe organized and compliant laboratory environment. The role contributes to product development through consistent application of established protocols quality standards and operational best practices.
Essential Functions & Responsibilities
- Prepare ingredients formulas and product samples according to established procedures specifications and test plans
- Perform routine laboratory tests measurements and evaluations; accurately document observations and results
- Organize and support sensory evaluations including panel setup and sample preparation
- Conduct shelf-life studies including sample tracking and data recording
- Order receive label store and manage ingredients samples and laboratory supplies
- Coordinate shipping and receiving of materials and finished samples
- Operate clean maintain and assist with calibration of laboratory equipment (e.g. mixers scales ovens viscometers)
- Maintain laboratory cleanliness and organization in compliance with GMP food safety and safety standards
- Support pilot plant preparation small-scale production runs and product trials as needed
- Document test results formulations and specifications using electronic systems and/or lab notebooks
- Collaborate with R&D scientists technicians and cross-functional partners to support project execution
- Follow all safety policies PPE requirements and standard operating procedures (SOPs)
Expected Experience & Required Skills
- Associates degree in related technical or scientific field (Food Science Biology Chemistry) or related field or high school diploma with 2 years of relevant laboratory pilot plant or food production experience
- Prior experience in a laboratory pilot plant food manufacturing or technical environment preferred
- Basic computer proficiency including Microsoft Office (Excel Word PowerPoint) and data entry into laboratory or inventory systems
- Familiarity with common laboratory or food testing equipment with the ability to learn calibration and basic troubleshooting
- Strong attention to detail and ability to accurately follow formulas SOPs safety requirements and documentation standards
- Effective verbal and written communication skills including clear sample labeling and accurate data recording
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced hands-on technical environment
Work Environment & Schedule
- Relocation & Sponsorship: This role is based onsite at the Kraft Heinz Innovation Center in Glenview Illinois. 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 Kraft Heinz R&D Innovation Center in Glenview IL. 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 $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 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 pilot plant support.
- Work may involve proximity to moving mechanical equipment and cleaning agents used in sanitation processes.
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)
Glenview R&D CenterKraft 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 .
Required Experience:
Junior IC
About Company
For 150 years, we have produced some of the world's most beloved products at The Kraft Heinz Company (NASDAQ: KHC). Our Vision is To Be the Best Food Company, Growing a Better World. We are one of the largest global food and beverage companies, with 2018 net sales of approximately $26 ... View more