Sr. Scientist, R&D – Process Development

Job Description

This is a Center Research & Development technical role providing leadership for the identification of process technology driven projects, and the feasibility evaluation & scale-up of said technology across our North American businesses.  The candidate will be identifying, scoping, and driving technical projects to meet strategic business initiatives, as well as coaching junior developers.  The candidate should have process development experience and a proven record of executing work plans and driving results in a variety of settings.  This includes understanding business needs, experimental design, operational linkages, data analysis, research documentation, and commercialization processes.  Proven communication, leadership and teamwork skills are essential in this role, which operates in a cross-functional environment with global connectivity. The candidate must also have a strong technical background and be able to apply prior learning or scientific principles to new situations. This position requires an individual to manage multiple assignments/ tasks concurrently and demonstrate a high degree of autonomy. Exhibiting a collaborative mindset and applying innovative solutions are a must.  They must use their technical knowledge to develop and coach others through product and process development projects.

Key Components of the role

• Working with cross functional teams and external partners, seek and navigate ambiguous data sets to find areas of opportunity and then lead the identification, assessment, and development of process technology solutions.
• Experience in processing across multiple product categories or have technical depth in a key process technology area.
• Identify meaningful business opportunities through operations connections and engage cross-functional leaders and teams to drive project execution.
• Drive feasibility and scale-up of process advancements or novel technology with cross-functional team members in R&D and operations team.  Project scopes can include cost savings, renovations, innovations, capacity, quality, or business continuity.
• Adapt and apply scientific principles to new situations/products and have a high degree of autonomy.
• Manage multiple assignments/research projects concurrently and possess the ability to prioritize between a variety of business initiatives.
• Create process design scopes, process operation guides, manufacturing procedures, and specifications.
• Navigating capital approval and execution processes

Qualifications:

• BS/MS/PhD in Engineering, Food, Dairy, Meat, or Animal Science
• Minimum 4-5 years in a Technical Function (which can include all graduate and/or internship work)
• Strong understanding of food (can be specific to Meat, Dairy, Beverages, Confections, Coffee, Ketchup, Sauces, Potatoes, Frozen Meals, etc.) chemistry, analytical testing, formulations used in food manufacturing.
• Strong understanding of food operations and equipment used in food manufacturing.
• Strong understanding of key subject matter in areas such as ingredient functionality, packaging materials, product processing and interrelationship of ingredients, process, and packaging
• Proven communication, influencing, project/platform management and problem-solving skills.
• Basic understanding of Six Sigma and Continuous Improvement principles & tools
• Manage multiple assignments/tasks concurrently with the ability to prioritize work for self and others.
• Willingness to travel 30%

Location(s)

Glenview R&D Center

Kraft Heinz is an Equal Opportunity Employer that prohibits discrimination or harassment of any type. All qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Applicants who require an accommodation to participate in the job application or hiring process should contact NAZTAOps@kraftheinz.com.