Research & Development Product Assistant

Job Description

Job Purpose

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.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities

• 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)

Expected Experience & Required Skills

• 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

Work Environment & Schedule

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.

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., ingredient containers, lab apparatus, sample boxes).

• Frequent use of hands for fine…