Principal Sci, R&D – Transformation

  • All Posting Locations: Glenview, IL, US
  • Job Functions: Research & Development
  • Date Published: June 12, 2025
  • Ref#: R-93740

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About the Role

Job Description

Principal Scientist Digital R&D– Transformation 

 

We are seeking a future-thinking leader to join our North America R&D Transformation team, where you will play a pivotal role in shaping R&D’s digital transformation. As a leader and expert in this area, you will drive business impact, improve efficiency, and foster a culture of innovation.  

The primary responsibility of this position is to provide program and technical leadership in assessing, guiding, and rolling out digital solutions to advance R&D capabilities. This role contributes to Kraft Heinz growth ambitions by working to solve R&D pain points, create innovative ways of working, and imbed new capabilities through emerging technology solutions. The candidate will leverage digital tools to advance R&D’s innovation, development, and commercialization knowledge and skills  

This candidate should have a proven record of understanding business needs and championing digital approaches in an organization. Communication, drive for results, analytical thinking, and problem-solving skills are essential in this role. This position requires an individual to have a collaborative and change management-savvy mindset 

 

Key Responsibilities 

  • Assess, guide, test, and scale digital R&D solutions, focused on value-chain capabilities (e.g. innovation, development, commercialization) 

  • Provide knowledge and understanding of R&D and product development to ensure viability of solutions 

  • Establishing connectivity between new and existing systems (e.g. PLM, Innovation Tools, etc.) 

  • Collaborate with technology scouts, Information Technology, Digital Transformation, External Partners, and Functions such as Marketing, Innovation, and Manufacturing to identify opportunities and build and/or find solutions 

  • Further outcomes by scaling up solutions and providing change management through communication, releases, demos, and trainings 

  • Work with R&D teams to ensure user experience and solution meets needs  

  • Apply prior learning or scientific principles to new situations 

 

Qualifications 

  • BS/MS in Food Science, Chemical or Biological Engineering, or Computer Science or relevant fields 

  • Strong understanding of and experience of applying AI and Machine Learning concepts, with passion for exploring new technologies and methodologies 

  • Solid understanding of product development, ingredient functionality, interrelationship of ingredients, process, and packaging, and consumer insights 

  • Familiar with Agile ways of working and Design Thinking 

  • Strong collaborator with cross-functional teams from technology, design, and business 

  • Excellent communication, influencing, project management and problem-solving skills 

  • Proven ability to lead, coach, and collaborate with others, driving results through influence and expertise 

  • Adept at managing multiple assignments and deadlines concurrently and prioritize tasks with ease 

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Suite and Power Platform including Excel, Power Pivot, Power Apps, Power Automate, Power BI, SharePoint 

  • Willingness to travel 10%, may be higher depending on location 

 

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.

Digital at Kraft Heinz

The
Builders

Our Digital team empowers every aspect of our business.

Discovering what’s next in food using Python, Azure ML and Alteryx. Building and designing apps. Improving our supply chain.

We’re bringing agility to beloved brands across the globe — making life delicious for our customers and communities, today and tomorrow.

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HR at Kraft Heinz

The
Facilitators

People are what makes Kraft Heinz great. Today. And tomorrow.

In Human Resources, we’re finding and developing great talent to continue our legacy. We’re here for every colleague, for their performance and their wellbeing.

Together, we’re helping everyone to grow their own way.

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Manufacturing at Kraft Heinz

The
Makers

Our Manufacturing team is a fully-integrated end-to-end supply chain. We’re the backbone of Kraft Heinz. The people behind the products, delivering the highest quality and value.

Whether you’re a seasoned manufacturing veteran or new to the world of plants, there’s tons of opportunity for career growth and development.

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Marketing at Kraft Heinz

The
Strategizers

Our Marketing team are the voice of our consumers. Connecting the right people, to the right products, with the right messages and campaigns.

We’re the architects of category growth, making sure our brands are front and center — winning the battle for attention in the minds of people everywhere.

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R&D at Kraft Heinz

The
Creators

Our Research and Development team creates high-quality products that push the boundaries of what’s possible. Innovation is what gets us up in the morning!

Whether you want to develop your technical skills or grow as a people manager, there’s a place for you here to advance your career.

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Sales at Kraft Heinz

The
Connectors

Our Sales team drives multibillion dollar distribution strategies. And we do this across channels and across the whole world!

We thrive wherever consumers can meet iconic and innovative brands — in retail, on-trade, and B2B. We’re the closest people to our customers, getting our products to the right people, in the right places.

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Hear from
our people

“Kraft Heinz doesn’t just talk about their values, they live it every day.”

Traci
Senior Customer Sales Manager

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Hear from
our people

“The best is yet to come at Kraft Heinz. I’ve experienced the launch of a new purpose, new vision and values. Now I’m seeing all of those things truly take shape and that is very exciting.”

Michael
Associate Director Pension

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Hear from
our people

“The best thing about working at Kraft Heinz are the benefits and opportunities for growth and career development.”

Manetta
Talent acquisition Specialist

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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.

Why Us

We grow our people to grow our business. We champion great people who bring ambition, curiosity, and high performance to the table as the guardians of our iconic and nostalgic brands.

Good isn’t good enough. We choose greatness every day by making bold decisions and challenging what’s ordinary. All while celebrating our wins – and failures – as we work together to transform the future of food.

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