Principal Scientist, Packaging Development
Are you passionate about packaging innovation and excited to work on iconic brands?We’relooking for a Principal Scientist, PackagingDevelopmentto lead packaging development for the entertainment partnership within our AwayFromHome(AFH)business.
In this role, you will drive packaging innovation across the Kraft Heinz AwayFromHome portfolio, with a special focus on a growing entertainment partnership.You’llcombine technicalexpertise, creative problem-solving, and strategic thinking to deliver packaging solutions that meet customerand business needs whileperformingwithin real-world operational constraints.
You will lead work from concept through commercialization byidentifyingbusiness needs,designingand executing tests, analyzing data, drawing conclusions, and translating insights intoviablepackaging solutions. This role requires strong scientificthinking,sound technical judgment,andthe ability to apply priorlearningto new challenges, including right-sizing, material simplification, and cost-optimized pack formats
Success in this role also depends onstrong communication, cross-functional collaboration, and the ability tooperateeffectively in a fast-paced, test-and-learn environment.You’llwork closely with agile, cross-functional teams to move projects forward quickly, adapt to changingcustomerneeds, and deliver practical, manufacturable solutions.
We’relooking for someone with a proventrack recordof building clear work plans, driving results, managing multiple priorities, and working autonomously.
Role Impact
This role helps shape packaging solutions thatenable keycustomer partnerships,drive growth, and deliver practical business impact across the AFH portfolio.
Key Responsibilities
Serve as the packaging lead across multiple cross-functional projects and product categories, with an emphasis on solutions that meet customer requirements
Manage multiple assignments and research projectssimultaneouslywhile prioritizing across business needs, short timelines, and lean development cycles
Lead packaging testing, qualification, and commercialization in partnership with cross-functional teams across laboratory and production environments
Ensure packaging solutions arefeasibleand manufacturable, particularly for foodservice formats
Translate research findings and test results into clear business implications, including the“why”behind recommendations and the expected impact to the business
Apply scientific principles and prior learning to new products, formats, and technical challenges
Create andmaintainspecifications with strong attention to detail and accuracy
Lead, coach, and motivate others on the AFH Packaging team
Qualifications
BS or MS in Packaging, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field
Bachelor’s degreeplusa minimum of 6 years of relevant experience, or master’s degreeplusa minimum of 5 years of relevant experience, or PhDplusa minimum of 4 years of relevant experience
Proven experience in packaging development and commercialization
Strong knowledge of packaging materials, equipment and material interactions, and packaging laboratory test methods
Excellent communication, influencing, and critical thinking skills
Demonstrated ability to lead, coach, and motivate others
Strong ability to manage multiple assignments concurrently and prioritize effectively
Willingness to travel up to 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:
$104,200.00 - $130,200.00
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.
The Kraft Heinz Company is one of the largest food and beverage companies in the world, with eight $1 billion+ brands and global sales of approximately $25 billion. We’re a globally trusted producer of high-quality, great-tasting, and nutritious foods for over 150 years. While Kraft Heinz is co-headquartered in Chicago and Pittsburgh, our brands are truly global, with products produced and marketed in over 40 countries. These beloved products include condiments and sauces, cheese and dairy, meals, meats, refreshment beverages, coffee, infant and nutrition products, and numerous other grocery products in a portfolio of more than 200 legacy and emerging brands.
We spark joy around mealtime with our iconic brands, including Kraft, Oscar Mayer, Heinz, Philadelphia, Lunchables, Velveeta, Maxwell House, Capri Sun, Ore-Ida, Kool-Aid, Jell-O, Primal Kitchen, and Classico, among others.
No matter the brand, we’re united under one vision: To sustainably grow by delighting more consumers globally. Bringing this vision to life is our team of 37,000+ food lovers, creative thinkers, and high performers worldwide. Together, we help provide meals to those in need through our global partnership with Rise Against Hunger. We also stand committed to responsible, sustainable practices that extend to every facet of our business, our consumers, and our communities. Every day, we’re transforming the food industry with bold thinking and unprecedented results. If you share our passion – and are ready to create the future, build a legacy, and lead as a global citizen – there’s only one thing to do: join our table and let’s make life delicious!
