About the Role
Job Description
Scientist, R&D – Tomato Technology
Kraft Heinz is hiring a Scientist for our Tomato Technology R&D Team. This is an exciting opportunity to lead technical projects, assess our tomato crop, and become a scientific expert for our iconic Heinz Tomatoes & Ketchup. The Senior Scientist will identify and drive innovation initiatives to ensure we maintain a high–quality tomato supply for our North America business. The candidate will conduct data analysis on the annual tomato crop to make approval decisions. This position will be based in Los Banos, CA.
What's on the menu?
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Lead and conduct research on tomato science and technology that is critical for tomato variety development, processing, and finished products. Become an expert in these areas.
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Identify and explore new science and technology ideas that create consumer benefits and/or process efficiencies.
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Perform data analysis and make approval decisions on the annual tomato crop to ensure it meets our high standards.
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This role will cross-functionally work with Procurement, Global Agriculture, Product R&D, Food Safety & Quality, Operations, Materials teams and External suppliers.
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Provide tomato technical expertise and leadership for cross-functional teams across the organization. This can include activities such as tomato sauce formulation, factory production qualification, and troubleshooting activities.
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Responsible for technical leadership during tomato season. This includes travel to internal tomato sites and supplier facilities in California. Monitor tomato production, provide technical input to production/quality topics, and provide internal updates as needed.
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Share in the seasonal management of the Tomato Technology Research facility. This includes: technical support for research projects, monitoring seasonal personnel, and assisting with the manufacture of both routine and research samples.
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Manage tomato ingredient technical specifications for North America. Responsible for monitoring tomato inventory and traceability in software program.
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Proactively gather data, analyze and provide recommendations for product/process improvements for tactical as well as strategic long-term projects.
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Analyze tomato demand forecasts, consumption reports, available supply and changing business needs to predict future tomato demand.
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Provide clear and concise tomato technical updates to cross-functional partners across the organization.
Recipe for Success – apply now if this sounds like you!
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Minimum of MS in Food Science or related field. PhD is a plus.
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2-4 years of relevant experience is ideal.
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Experience in tomato/fruit/vegetable Research & Development or Quality is preferred.
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Strong knowledge of food science and processing principles.
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Technical project management and critical thinking experience is required.
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Able to lead projects independently.
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Manage multiple assignments/projects concurrently to meet timelines.
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Available to travel and be onsite at our California Tomato Pilot Plant for extended periods during tomato season (July to October)
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Ability to effectively cross-functionally collaborate and update internal/external stakeholders.
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Hands-on leader, for both primary research and training purposes.
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Fluent in speaking and writing in English required, conversational Spanish a plus.
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Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and statistical analysis software.
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Willingness to travel domestically approximately 20% of the time as needed.
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:
$77,800.00 – $97,300.00
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:
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Physical – Medical, Prescription Drug, Dental, Vision, Screenings/Assessments
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Social – Paid Time Off, Company Holidays, Leave of Absence, Flexible Work Arrangements, Recognition, Training
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Emotional – Employee Assistance Program , Wellbeing Programs, Family Support Programs
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Financial – 401k, Life, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, Disability
Location(s)
Los Banos – Tomato Pilot Plant
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.
About Us
Kraft Heinz is a global food company with a delicious heritage. Our emerging and iconic food and beverage brands deliver the best taste, fun, and quality to every table we touch. Worldwide.
We’re on a mission to disrupt not only our own business, but the global food industry. Consumer obsession and unexpected partnerships fuel our progress. As we drive innovation company-wide.
Our people are connected by a culture of ownership, agility and endless curiosity. We believe in being good humans — working to improve our company, communities, and planet.
We’re proud of where we’ve been and even more thrilled about where we’re headed as we nourish the world and lead the future of food.
