Research & Development Product Assistant

This role is also open to Warrendale, PA

As a Research & Development Product Assistant for Kraft Heinz, you will support product development and innovation activities by performing hands‑on laboratory food preparation, sample handling, testing, and documentation. This role works closely with food scientists and product/packaging developers to ensure accurate execution of test formulas, data collection, and maintenance of a safe, organized lab environment. The technician contributes to the development and refinement of products through consistent application of protocols, quality standards, and operational excellence.

• Prepare ingredients, formulas, and product samples per established procedures and specifications
• Conduct routine laboratory tests, measurements, evaluations, and tastings; accurately record observations and data
• Responsible for all operational tasks for shelf‑life studies, including preparing samples, loading and retrieving samples from shelf‑life chambers, analytical testing, and cleaning work spaces
• Moderate weekly shelf‑life showings; take notes and document results
• Participate in taste evaluations for relevant product categories
• Organize, label, and manage samples, materials, and test inventory
• Operate, clean, and calibrate laboratory equipment (e.g., scales, ovens, pH meters, viscometers)
• Ensure day‑to‑day laboratory operations run efficiently by maintaining cleanliness, organization, inventory level, and timely supply ordering in support of product development activities.
• Assist with pilot plant preparation and small‑scale pilot production runs
• Package and ship R&D samples as needed
• Document test results, specifications, and formulation notes in digital systems and/or lab notebooks
• Collaborate with R&D scientists and cross‑functional teams to support product development work
• Adhere to safety policies, PPE requirements, and standard operating procedures (SOPs)

• High school diploma required, with prior experience working in a laboratory, pilot plant, food production, or technical environment is preferred.
• Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office (Excel, Word) and data entry into lab or inventory systems
• Familiarity with laboratory equipment such as scales, mixers, ovens, or testing instruments
• Strong attention to detail, with the ability to accurately follow formulas, 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

This position is based onsite full-time at the Kraft Heinz R&D Innovation Center in Glenview, IL. R&D Technicians are required to work on campus Monday through Friday, following a standard schedule to support daily lab operations, sample preparation, equipment readiness, and collaboration with the product development team. Work may occasionally require flexibility for pilot plant runs or project‑based support within operational hours.

• 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!

• 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…