Lead, Operations Research Scientist – Digital Manufacturing

  • All Posting Locations: Chicago, IL, US
  • Job Functions: Manufacturing
  • Date Published: July 15, 2025
  • Ref#: R-94675
  • Remote, Hybrid or Onsite: Hybrid

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a 4 pack of raspberry jell-o

About the Role

Job Description

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Lead Operations Research Scientist to join our Digital Manufacturing team. In this role, you will play a critical role in driving business growth and process improvements across our manufacturing sites. You will work closely with cross-functional teams to identify opportunities for improvement, develop and apply advanced analytical solutions, and drive the implementation of data-driven recommendations. Your expertise in operations research, data science, and AI will enable us to optimize our manufacturing processes, improve yield, throughput, and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE), and ensure processing and production lines are running within specification.

What's on the Menu:

  • Work closely with manufacturing sites to identify and understand opportunities to improve their processes through digital technology and design solutions that meet those needs
  • Convert identified opportunities into problem frameworks that can be solved using traditional and state-of-the-art mathematical, statistical, and AI-based techniques
  • Conduct proof-of-concept analyses to evaluate the opportunity impact and feasibility of proposed solutions
  • Develop prototype algorithms and models of these solutions that can be developed and implemented into production-grade applications by the Kraft Heinz Tech team
  • Provide direction and operations expertise throughout the development and implementation of advanced analytics and AI solutions to drive business outcomes
  • Develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including manufacturing site leaders, production planners, and quality assurance teams
  • Stay up-to-date with industry trends and emerging technologies in operations research, data science, and AI
  • Develop and maintain technical documentation of solutions and analyses
  • Lead and mentor junior team members to develop their skills and expertise in operations research and data science
  • Collaborate with the broader Digital Manufacturing team to drive strategic initiatives and projects

Recipe for Success:

  • Master's or Ph.D. degree in Operations Research, Industrial Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, or related field
  • 8+ years of experience in operations research, data science, or a related field, with a focus on manufacturing or supply chain optimization
  • Proven expertise in developing and applying advanced analytical solutions, including machine learning, optimization, and simulation
  • Experience working with large volumes of asset telemetry data from manufacturing equipment PLCs
  • Strong programming skills in languages such as Python or R
  • Experience with visualization and prototyping tools such as JMP, Streamlit or Shiny
  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams
  • Strong business acumen and understanding of manufacturing processes and operations
  • Experience with Agile development methodologies and version control systems such as Git
     

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with statistical modeling and analysis in a food manufacturing or consumer goods industry
  • Familiarity with manufacturing execution systems (MES) and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems
  • Experience with cloud-based technologies such as Azure or AWS
  • Certification in operations research, data science, or a related field (e.g. Certified Analytics Professional, Certified Data Scientist, Professional Engineer)

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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