Sr Scientist, R&D Packaging Lab

Job Purpose

AstheSenior Scientist for the R&DPackagingLabatKraft Heinz you willcoordinate the scheduling and planningof 3 to 4 lab assistantsandmonthlydistribution testing to meetweeklylab requests.In addition you will trainteamandsupportpackagingdevelopment and innovation activities by performing hands-on laboratory preparation sample handling testing and documentation.You willbe responsible formanaging thelabdaily activities equipmentcalibrationand maintenance.This role works closely withfood scientists and product/packagingdevelopers to ensureaccurateexecution ofpackage testing data collection and maintenance of a safe organized lab environment. The technician contributes to the development and refinement ofpackagesthrough consistent application of protocols quality standards and operational excellence.

EssentialFunctions &Responsibilities

• Coordinate and schedule all lab assistant workflows andall distribution testing

• Monitor Lab Assistants activities testing and reporting providing direction coachingas needed ensuring accuracy and executional excellence

• Developpackage testingreportingtemplatesandStandard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

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

• Maintain calibration schedule andcoordinate repairs of equipment with internal maintenance or external equipment vendorswriting and trackingPurchase Ordersand coordination of equipment shipping

• Be fully trainedand trainlab assistants and developerson package testingequipmentreferring toboth ASTM ISTA and internal test methods and safety protocolsandcertifications where needed

• Conduct routine laboratory testing (including full ISTA 3E pallet testing materials testing)measurements evaluations package inspections; accurately recordingobservationswithpicturesand dataand outputs from packaging equipment(e.g.topload graphsand raw data)withdatareporting documentation

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

• Organize label and manage materials and test inventory

• Operateinspect and calibrate laboratory equipment and tools (e.g.vacuum chambersInstron compression testersetc)and coordinate external calibration as needed

• Maintain lab cleanliness hygiene and compliance withGLP (Good Laboratory Practices) and safety requirementsorganizing lab storage and cooler clean outs

• Track/monitorequipment check outs and returnsand calibration documentation

• Assistinpackaging material preparation for testing

• Collaborate with R&Dpackaging developersand cross-functional teams to supportpackagingdevelopment work

• Follow all safety policies PPE requirements andStandard Operating Procedures(SOPs) updating/creating/validatingprocedures where needed

• Operate a forklift andelectricpallet mover (with on-site trainingand certification)

Expected Experience& Required Skills

• Bachelorsdegree in a Scienceor related field emphasis on packaging preferred

• 3-5years of laboratorymechanical pilot plant or technical experience

• Computerproficiency including Microsoft Office (Excel Word) and data entry into lab or inventory systemsand data analysis experience Microsoft Word

• Familiarity with laboratory equipment such as scalescalipersandothertesting instruments with the ability to learn calibration and basic troubleshooting

• Strongorganizational skills andattention to detail with the ability to accuratelydevelop andfollow SOPs safety procedures and documentation requirements.

• Strongverbal 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 basedonsitefull-time at the Kraft Heinz R&D Innovation Centerin Glenview IL.This role isto work on campus Monday through Friday following a standard schedule to support daily lab operations sample preparationand testing equipment readiness and collaboration with thepackagingdevelopment team. Work may occasionally require flexibilityto accommodate multiple pallet testsor project-based support within operational hours.

Physical Requirements

Physicaldemandsinclude butare notlimited 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 movefrequentlybetween lab benches storage areas and equipment stations.

• Ability to lift carry push or pull materials and equipment up to 50lbs(e.g.cases of materials and filled packagescontainers 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.

• Occasionalreaching below waistand atshoulder height to retrievepackages/cases supplies or equipment.

• Must be able to wear andutilizerequired Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including lab coats gloves hairnets safety glasses and hearing protection where applicable.

• Exposure to varying temperatures including cold roomscoolers freezerswarm processing areas or heated equipment during pilot plant support.

• Work may involve proximity to movingmechanical equipment and cleaning agents used in sanitation processes.

This job description is not designed to cover orcontainall duties or responsibilities that are requiredofthe role. Duties or responsibilities may change or be added with or without notice.