Group Lead, Manufacturing Engineering – Technical Platforms

  • All Posting Locations: Chicago, IL, US
  • Job Functions: Manufacturing
  • Date Published: September 17, 2025
  • Ref#: R-96459
  • Remote, Hybrid or Onsite: Hybrid

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a 4 pack of raspberry jell-o

About the Role

Job Description

This is a role for someone who craves a global challenge balanced by the desire to be accountable for delivering against the model in the largest business unit for Kraft Heinz.  It is both a strategic and a tactical position.  Those that do not want to get their hands dirty or build out a function against a blank slate without buying pre-packaged solutions should not apply. 

What's on the menu:

  • To define a manufacturing strategy as an intended direction which outlines the keys to attaining & retaining low-cost producer status and offers a competitive differentiation.
  • Alter the boundaries of the existing manufacturing capabilities to offer efficient/rapid new product development with focus on mechanical, electrical or process system design or Network Footprint
  • Team members will act as resident experts within their field of expertise and provide guidance to the broader team on the strategic fit within the Manufacturing Network. 
  • To define/direct stepwise cost reduction programs and/or projects across the Manufacturing Network within the respective focus areas.
  • To identify and prioritize opportunities based on the business segment cost needs. 
  • Guide/lead the execution teams through implementation to assure sustainable business results.
  • Liaison between Manufacturing and Business M&A activities
  • Monitor operations metrics and identify opportunities to redefine metrics that better align behaviors with desired Business results
  • Analysis of the Manufacturing Network leading to the creation, development, and implementation of strategic planning solidly anchored in achieving the low-cost leadership goal. 
  • Provide in-depth data analysis that involves compiling and analyzing large data sets using statistical methods and optimization modeling tools, and presenting the results in a detailed and usable format that drives management decision-making.
  • Lead the creation, development, implementation of strategic initiatives.
  • Conducts comparisons, and utilizes benchmarking data to identify areas of opportunity.
  • Understands KHC’s product cost drivers and utilizes available tools to identify productivity "drill sites"
  • Support the Manufacturing Leadership Team in prioritizing & resolving current technical Manufacturing issues impacting cost

Recipe for Growth:

  • A Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management, Engineering or related field/experience is required. 
  • +10 years of manufacturing experience is required with the ability to articulate & implement new technologies and process designs.
  • Possess a deep understanding of Manufacturing KPIs.
  • Able to lead a team (matrix relationship) of Process Managers & highly technical individuals.
  • Able to influence senior leaders within the Manufacturing Leadership Team.
  • Able to facilitate highly technical statistical approaches to problem solving; gathering and analyzing Network data. 
  • Able to provide mentoring and coaching to seasoned technical Leaders / professionals.
  • Act as the resident domain expert within their field.

This role can sit in Chicago or Plant 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:

$137,400.00 – $171,700.00

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)

Chicago/Aon 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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