Job Description

Job Purpose

As a Research & Development (R&D) Analytical Sciences Lab Assistant at Kraft Heinz, you will support analytical testing, method development, and innovation activities by performing hands-on laboratory preparation, sample handling, testing, and documentation. This role works closely with analytical scientists to ensure accurate execution of test methods, reliable data collection, and maintenance of a safe and organized laboratory environment. The Lab Assistant contributes to the development and modification of analytical methods through consistent application of established protocols, quality standards, and operational excellence.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities

• Prepare test samples according to established procedures
• Conduct routine laboratory tests, measurements, and evaluations; accurately record observations and data
• Support procurement of samples and laboratory supplies; coordinate shipping and receiving samples and equipment
• Organize, label, and manage samples, materials, and test inventory
• Operate, clean, and calibrate laboratory equipment and tools (e.g., mixers, scales, ovens, viscometers, colorimeters)
• Maintain laboratory cleanliness, hygiene, and compliance with GMP, food safety, and safety requirements
• Support analytical scientists with test execution, test report preparation, and uploading results into Lablynx
• Follow all safety policies, PPE requirements, and standard operating procedures (SOPs)
• Manage chemical inventory and dispose of expired chemicals in accordance with chemical hygiene policies
• Assist with movement of samples and instruments between internal and external laboratories as needed

Expected Experience & Required Skills

• Associate degree or completion of a two-year technical program in Food Science, Biology, Chemistry, or a related field, with 1 to 2 years of experience working in a laboratory, pilot plant, food production, or technical environment.
• Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) and data entry into laboratory or inventory systems.
• Familiarity with common laboratory equipment (e.g., scales, mixers, ovens, testing instruments), with the ability and willingness to learn calibration and basic troubleshooting
• Ability to follow standard operating procedures (SOPs), safety protocols, and good laboratory practices
• Strong attention to detail, organization skills, and ability to manage multiple routine tasks
• Effective communication skills and ability to work collaboratively in a team environment

Work Environment & Schedule

Relocation & Sponsorship: This role is based onsite at the Kraft Heinz Innovation Center in Glenview, Illinois. Relocation assistance and work authorization sponsorship are not available for this position.

Work hours: Occasional overtime may be required to support project timelines; however, regular overtime is expected to be minimal.

Onsite & reliable transportation: This is a full‑time onsite position at the Kraft Heinz R&D Innovation Center in Glenview, IL. Reliable attendance and dependable transportation are required. R&D Assistants work on campus Monday through Friday, following a standard daytime schedule to support daily lab operations, sample preparation, equipment setup/readiness, and collaboration with R&D teams. Occasional flexibility may be needed for pilot plant runs or other project‑based activities within standard operational hours.

Compensation & Benefits Overview

Hourly Pay: Starting at $28/hour, with final offer based on experience, skills, and internal equity.

Benefits: We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes, but not limited to: Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance, Health Reimbursement Account/Health Savings Account (HSA), Pet Insurance, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Supplemental Life Insurance, and so much more!

Physical Requirements

Physical demands include but are not limited to:

• Work is performed in an R&D Innovation Center laboratory, with occasional pilot plant exposure.
• Ability to stand and remain upright for extended periods during lab preparation, testing, and cleanup activities.
• Ability to walk and move frequently between lab benches, storage areas, and equipment stations.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull materials and equipment up to 50 lbs (e.g., ingredient containers, lab apparatus, sample boxes).
• Frequent use of hands for fine motor tasks such as measuring, weighing, labeling, and operating laboratory instruments.
• Frequent repetitive motion, including handling tools, containers, and data entry.
• Occasional bending, crouching, or stooping to access low storage, equipment, or sample placement.
• Occasional reaching below waist and at shoulder height to retrieve ingredients, supplies, or equipment.
• Must be able to wear and utilize required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including lab coats, gloves, hairnets, safety glasses, and hearing protection where applicable.
• Exposure to varying temperatures, including cold rooms, warm processing areas, or heated equipment during analytical testing support.
• Work may involve proximity to moving mechanical equipment.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain all duties or responsibilities that are required of the role. Duties or responsibilities may change or be added with or without notice.

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, 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 that prohibits discrimination or harassment of any type. All qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Applicants who require an accommodation to participate in the job application or hiring process should contact NAZTAOps@kraftheinz.com.