R&D Microbiology Lab Technician

Overview

Job Purpose

The R&D Microbiology Lab Technician supports microbiology laboratory operations for the Fermentation and Biotechnology Research and Development team at Kraft Heinz. This role is responsible for hands-on laboratory support, including sample preparation and testing, data collection, and laboratory organization. Working closely with scientists and technical staff, the technician helps ensure accurate execution of laboratory methods while maintaining a safe, organized, and compliant lab environment.

• Collaborate with scientists to understand upcoming experimental needs and prepare microbiological media, glassware, and materials required for laboratory work
• Support experiment planning, setup, and teardown, including assistance with scientific equipment such as benchtop systems and bioreactors
• Operate and maintain analytical and laboratory equipment to support experimental analysis
• Accurately record, document, and report data generated from bench-scale and pilot-scale experiments
• Assist with bench and pilot plant trials to support formulation and process development activities
• Support procurement of laboratory supplies, including ordering, shipping, receiving, and inventory management
• Organize, label, and manage samples, laboratory materials, and consumables
• Maintain general laboratory organization and readiness
• Clean, calibrate, and perform routine maintenance on laboratory equipment and tools
• Maintain laboratory cleanliness and hygiene in compliance with GMP, food safety, and safety requirements
• Adhere to all safety policies, procedures, and PPE requirements

• Associate's degree in related technical or scientific field, or high school diploma with 2+ years of relevant laboratory, manufacturing, pilot plant, mechanical, or technical experience
• Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) and data entry into laboratory or inventory systems
• Ability to perform technical mathematical calculations, including unit conversions, concentrations, percentages, and basic algebra, to support laboratory and process technical work
• Familiarity with general laboratory equipment (e.g., scales, mixers, ovens, testing instruments); ability to learn microbiology laboratory techniques
• Familiarity with aseptic techniques is a plus, but not required
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to accurately follow SOPs, safety procedures, and documentation requirements
• Effective verbal and written communication skills, including proper sample labeling, data recording, and collaboration with team members
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced technical environment

• 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 full‑time 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 project‑based activities within standard 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!

• 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…