Job Description
Principal Sci, R&D - Packaging Development
Our Company
The Kraft Heinz Company is revolutionizing the food industry - we will be the most profitable food company powered by the most talented people with unwavering commitment to our communities, leading brands and highest product quality in every category in which we compete. As a global food and beverage powerhouse, Kraft Heinz represents over $25 billion in revenue and is the 3rd largest food and beverage company in North America and 5th largest in the world. At Kraft Heinz, to be the BEST food company, growing a BETTER world is more than a dream - it is our GLOBAL VISION. To be the best, we want the best - best brands, best practices and, most importantly, the best people.
Owners Only!
This is a role for someone who craves a global challenge balanced by the desire to be accountable for delivering against the model across the Kraft Heinz enterprise. It is both a strategic and tactical position. Those that do not want to get their hands dirty or build out a function against a blank slate without buying pre-packaged solutions should not apply.
Role / Title
This is a technical leadership role for providing direction and execution of strategic projects under the Hydration, Desserts, and Meals R&D platform . This candidate should have a proven record of developing as well as executing work plans and driving for results in a variety of challenging and complex settings. This includes understanding business needs, designing and executing tests, analyzing data, drawing conclusions, documenting, communicating results, and commercializing products. Proven communication and teamwork skills are essential in this role, which operates in a dynamic and cross-functional environment. The candidate must also have a technical background and be able to apply prior learning or scientific principles to new situations. This position requires an individual to manage multiple assignments/ tasks concurrently with a high de g ree of autonomy. Exhibiting a collaborative mindset and applying innovative solutions are a must .
Key Components of the role
• Work with cross-functional teams, acting as packaging lead to drive execution across multiple strategic projects across multiple product categories
• Manage multiple/large projects with complex scopes and/or cross category platforms concurrently
• Create robust technical project plans, including patent/literal reviews, tech documentation, prototyping, lab testing, consumer testing, qualification on pilot and/or production equipment, provide solutions to hurdles and provide next steps, with updates to leadership.
• Act as technical/commercialization expert for junior developers and flex onto projects requiring problem solving
• Lead and drive functional training and process improvements for the packaging organization
• Execute packaging testing, qualification and commercialization while working closely with cross-functional team members in laboratory and production environments
• Translate research findings into meaningful business opportunities and communicate to cross-functional teams
• Adapt and apply scientific principles to new situations/products Specification creation, improvement and updating, with attention to detail
• Have a high degree of autonomy
Qualifications:
• BS/MS/PhD in Packaging, Mechanical, Materials, Chemical Engineering or related field
• Minimum 6 years of experience in Packaging Development and commercialization (which can include internships)
• Expert understanding of packaging materials, functionality (strength and barrier properties) , standard test methods, qualification and commercialization of multiple packaging formats and ability to coach others in these areas
• Excellent, proven communication, influencing, project/platform management and problem-solving skills
• Strong ability to motivate others by providing technical coaching and mentorin g
Strong understanding of technical and business risks while providing solutions that address business needs • Manage multiple assignments/tasks concurrently with the ability to prioritize work for self and others.
• Willingness to travel 30%
Our Total Rewards philosophy is to provide a meaningful and flexible spectrum of programs that equitably support our diverse workforce and their families and complement Kraft Heinz' strategy and values.
New Hire Base Salary Range:
$102,100.00 - $127,600.00
Bonus: This position is eligible for a performance-based bonus as provided by the plan terms and governing documents.
The compensation offered will take into account internal equity and may vary depending on the candidate's geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors
Benefits: Coverage for employees (and their eligible dependents) through affordable access to healthcare, protection, and saving for the future, we offer plans tailored to meet you and your family's needs. Coverage for 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 a physical, social, emotional, and financial well-being lifestyle for our employees and their families.
You'll 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, Flexible Work Arrangements, Recognition, Training
- Emotional - Employee Assistance Program , Wellbeing Programs, Family Support Programs
- Financial - 401k, Life, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, Disability
Location(s)
Glenview R&D Center
Kraft Heinz is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Underrepresented Ethnic Minority Groups/Women/Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity and other protected classes. In order to ensure reasonable accommodation for protected individuals, applicants that require accommodation in the job application process may contact [email protected] for assistance.
Top Skills
Kraft Heinz Chicago, Illinois, USA Office

We're located in the Aon Center, steps from Millennium Park, the CTA, & great restaurants. Our office boasts 360-degree views of the Loop & the lake.
Similar Jobs at Kraft Heinz
What you need to know about the Chicago Tech Scene
Key Facts About Chicago Tech
- Number of Tech Workers: 245,800; 5.2% of overall workforce (2024 CompTIA survey)
- Major Tech Employers: McDonald’s, John Deere, Boeing, Morningstar
- Key Industries: Artificial intelligence, biotechnology, fintech, software, logistics technology
- Funding Landscape: $2.5 billion in venture capital funding in 2024 (Pitchbook)
- Notable Investors: Pritzker Group Venture Capital, Arch Venture Partners, MATH Venture Partners, Jump Capital, Hyde Park Venture Partners
- Research Centers and Universities: Northwestern University, University of Chicago, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Illinois Institute of Technology, Argonne National Laboratory, Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory