Jobs › Kraft Heinz

Associate Scientist, R&D - Packaging Dev

Kraft Heinz · Glenview, IL · $68,900–$86,100 a year · Full time

Posted Aug 17, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Oct 6, 2026

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Likely interview questions for this role

Written from this job description, not a generic list. Each one notes what the interviewer is really checking.

About your past

Tell me about a packaging project you've worked on. What part did you lead yourself?

What they are checking: Whether they have taken ownership of at least small projects, which this role expects.

Tell me about a time you worked with a cross-functional team. What was your role?

What they are checking: Whether they can collaborate and communicate well with people outside R&D.

How do you keep track of details when you're supporting several projects at once?

What they are checking: Whether they have organization habits that prevent missed steps.

What would you do

A trial shows mixed results, with some packages passing and some failing. What do you do next?

What they are checking: Whether they dig into variation and root causes rather than averaging away the problem.

You notice an error on a technical drawing that's already gone to the supplier. What do you do?

What they are checking: Whether they own mistakes and fix them quickly before they become costly.

About the work

What's involved in commercializing a new package, from specs and drawings to artwork and startup?

What they are checking: Whether they understand the full set of steps that bring a package to market.

How would packaging for foodservice operators differ from packaging for grocery shoppers?

What they are checking: Whether they understand Away From Home needs like bulk sizes, durability and ease of use in kitchens.

How would you design a plant trial to test a new packaging material?

What they are checking: Whether they know how to plan trials with clear goals and measurements.

How do you assess the risks of a packaging change before you start?

What they are checking: Whether they think ahead about quality, cost, supply and line performance risks.

What do you know about packaging sustainability, and how would you factor it into a project?

What they are checking: Whether they understand recyclability and material reduction basics.

Practice this interview out loud.

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The full job description

As published by Kraft Heinz.

Job Description Associate Scientist, R&D - Packaging Development The Kraft Heinz Away from Home R&D team is seeking an Associate Scientist, R&D – Packaging Development . This role supports development initiatives across innovation, renovation, and brand maintenance within our North American Away from Home business , while also leading lower-complexity projects . The position offers the opportunity to build technical packaging capability and leadership through close partnership with cross-functional teams and hands-on work that brings packaging solutions to market . Job Duties: • Support and lead packaging commercialization activities for new and renovated package launches from concept through implementation, including material specifications, trials and testing, technical drawings, artwork and graphics development, start-up procedures • Serve as a proactive technical resource by leading lower-complexity initiatives and supporting more complex project s • Partner with cross-functional teams to execute projects across innovation, renovation, sustainability, brand maintenance, cost optimization, and other strategic priorities • Assess project risks and feasibility to support sound technical decision-making • Design and execute plant trials across a range of products and packaging materials to advance project objectives • Develop and lead packaging performance testing and evaluations to ensure robust analysis of packaging variables • Write detailed technical trial plans, testing protocols, and summary reports • Create and maintain packaging specifications, manufacturing procedures, finished product specifications, and related database documentation • Manage multiple assignments simultaneously with supervisor guidance and possess the ability to prioritize between a variety of business initiatives • Apply scientific learning to new situations while demonstrating critical thinking and problem-solving skills Minimum Qualifications: • B achelor’s degree in Packaging, Engineering, Material Science, or an adjacent technical discipline • Experience or strong interest in the food or consumer packaged goods industry • Foundational knowledge of packaging science, materials, and testing protocols, with hands-on application through academic or industry experience • Understanding of packaging functionality and the interaction between packaging, product, and processing • Ability to work effectively in office, lab oratory , and manufacturing environments • Strong verbal and written communication skills • Self-motivated approach, strong attention to detail, sense of urgency, and eagerness to learn • Willingness to travel 30% based on business needs, including visits to internal plants , co-manufacturers, suppliers, or other R&D sites 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: $68,900.00 - $86,100.00 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, Heinz Innovation 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.

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