Principal Scientist, R&D - Packaging Development

Job Description

Principal Scientist, R&D – Packaging Development 

Job Overview:

This is a technical leadership role providing direction for and execution of projects under the Hydration, Desserts, and Meals (HDM) R&D platform. The candidate will be identifying, scoping, and driving Transformational Productivity projects that align with the strategic vision of HDM brands. The candidate will be leading and influencing the evolution of HDM’s Packaging Portfolio strategically protecting supply assurance and regulatory compliance in the current rapidly changing packaging environment.

Proven communication and teamwork skills are essential in this role, which operates in a cross-functional environment. This candidate should have a proven record of creating and executing work plans as well as driving for results.  strategically and tactically positioned. The role includes demonstrating proof of concept, technology scale-up, and commercialization or transition of technologies to other HDM developers. This position requires an individual to manage multiple assignments/ tasks concurrently and demonstrate the ability to complete work with minimal guidance; exhibiting a collaborative mindset and applying innovative solutions are a must have.

The candidate must have exhibited a creative mindset and displayed critical thinking to solve complex problems. A strong technical background and ability to apply prior learning or scientific principles to new situations. This includes understanding the business need, designing, and executing tests, analyzing data, drawing conclusions, documenting, communicating results, and commercializing products.

Key Components Of The Role:

• Working with multiple HDM marketing teams and packaging leads to understand the 10-year plan and gain alignment on packaging “Jobs to be done”.
• Partnering with Procurement to identify packaging components with single sourcing, limited capacity or volatile markets and develop a strategy to address.
• Stay appraised of packaging materials, equipment, market changes, and design innovations that may be applicable to HDM Productivity, Supply Security and Brand Strategy.
• Develop a thorough understanding of KHC and EM packaging operations including sources of downtime and material waste for HDM products. Use this knowledge to inform productivity and supply assurance priorities.
• Translate research findings into relevant business opportunities and communicate effectively to cross-functional teams. – Simplify findings/results from either scoping or testing into a language that is clear to the business team on the WHY & articulate the impact to the packaging/business.
• Developing strong relationships with all members of the HDM packaging and leadership team to collaborate on potential solutions, idea scoping executional excellence.
• Complete packaging testing, qualification and commercialization while working closely with cross-functional team members in laboratory and production environments.
• Adapt and apply scientific principles to new situations/products.
• Specification creation and updates with detail and accuracy.
• Ability to lead, coach and motivate others on the HDM team.
• Function as a liaison between the central margin enhancement team to drive Cost Engineering projects.

Qualifications:

• BS/MS in Packaging, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
• 5 - 10 years of experience in Packaging Development and commercialization (which can include internships)
• Strong understanding of key subject matter in areas such as packaging materials, pkg equipment/materials interaction, and packaging laboratory test methods.
• Willingness to travel 30%.
• Excellent communication, influencing, and critical thinking skills.
• Ability to lead, coach and motivate others.

Eeo Policy:

Kraft Heinz is an EO employer – Minorities/Women/Vets/Disabled and other protected categories.

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 NAZTAOps@kraftheinz.com for assistance.