Principal Scientist, R&D – Packaging Development

  • All Posting Locations: Warrendale, PA, US
  • Job Functions: Research & Development
  • Date Published: May 5, 2025
  • Ref#: R-92282
  • Remote, Hybrid or Onsite: Hybrid

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a 4 pack of raspberry jell-o

About the Role

Job Description

Principal Scientist, R&D – Packaging Dev 

Job Overview: 

This position offers the candidate an excellent opportunity to identify, drive and lead innovative and disruptive packaging technology initiatives (for innovation and sustainability) that will be instrumental in delivering novel, competitively and cost advantaged solutions globally across the Kraft Heinz portfolio and enterprise, both strategically and tactically positioned. The role includes identifying research pathways, demonstrating proof of concept, technology scale-up, and commercialization or transition of technologies to the business unit, and data analytics for package sustainability tracking and reporting. This individual must have strong technical skills and ability to link technologies to applications, while demonstrating intellectual curiosity, problem solving, leadership, championing ideas, and project management skills.Exhibiting a collaborative approach and applying innovative solutions are a must. 

Job Duties: 

  • Work with internal teams and cross-functional partners to understand opportunities and build solid plans with defined timing and deliverables. 

  • Lead multiple/large initiatives with complex scopes and/or cross enterprise platforms concurrently. 

  • Act as technical/commercialization expert for junior developers and flex onto projects requiring problem solving. 

  • Execute research plans, including patent/literature reviews, tech documentation, prototyping, lab testing, consumer testing, qualification on pilot and/or production equipment, provide solutions to hurdles and provide next steps, with updates to leadership. 

  • Strong data analysis experience (understanding and processing of complex data systems) to lead tracking for Packaging Sustainability commitments reporting. 

  • Build and coordinate relationships with suppliers, technology, and industry partners to drive technology pathways. 

  • Represent KHC in external industry collaborations across the value chain to translate packaging into a positive End-of-Life. 

  • Ability to ideate novel ideas for new product solutions.   

  • Translate research findings into meaningful recommendations, communicating results and driving decisions and technology adoption. 

  • Lead and drive functional training and process improvements for the pkg organization. 

  • Have a high degree of autonomy. 

Qualifications: 

  • BS/MS/PhD in Packaging, Mechanical, Materials, Chemical Engineering or related field. 

  • Minimum 6 years of experience in Packaging Development or Research and commercialization (which can include graduate work and/or internships). 

  • Expert understanding of packaging materials, their barrier properties, functionality, standard test methods, qualification and commercialization of multiple packaging formats, design of experiments and ability to coach others in these areas. 

  • Excellent, proven communication (presentations to global teams, senior leadership, cross functional collaboration), influencing, project/platform management and problem-solving skills. 

  • Strong ability to lead, coach and motivate others. 

  • Understanding or risks as well as ability to provide multiple solutions to business as options for path forward.  

  • Manage multiple assignments/tasks concurrently with the ability to prioritize work for self and others. 

  • Influence across packaging value chain externally. 

  • Willingness to travel 30 

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)

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.

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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