Research & Development Product Assistant

Job Description

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

• Relocation & Sponsorship:
  This role is based onsite at the Kraft Heinz R&D 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 and…