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Glenview, Illinois, United States
Onsite
Manager, R&D – Packaging Development
Job Description
This role leads packaging development for the Away From Home business, shaping practical, effective packaging solutions that balance technical rigor, business needs, and operational feasibility. It is a managerial and technical role within Research & Development Packaging, with direct leadership responsibility for packaging developers and potential oversight of contractors.
The person in this role will be responsible for developing and executing work plans, driving results across a range of initiatives, and leading packaging development from concept through commercialization. Success requires strong technical depth, sound judgment, and the ability to translate scientific learning and statistical analysis into practical business solutions.
This role operates in a dynamic, cross-functional environment and calls for strong communication, teamwork, and people leadership. The candidate must be able to manage multiple priorities with minimal guidance, solve technical packaging challenges, and lead with a collaborative, results-oriented mindset.
Key Components of the role
Directly lead a team of Packaging developers and potentially contractors
Lead packaging development and commercialization of materials and packaging systems to deliver short- and long-term business objectives
Manage technical timelines, communicate progress clearly, escalate risks, and develop contingency plans using strong project management discipline
Identify, define, and solve technical packaging challenges that meet both operational and customer requirements
Ensure packaging solutions are feasible, manufacturable, and fit for purpose, particularly in foodservice formats
Lead and/or support developers who are leading packaging testing, qualification, and commercialization in partnership with cross-functional teams across lab and production environments
Manage and develop junior team members through development plans, workload balancing, and team effectiveness
Influence project direction in collaboration with Operations, Marketing, and other cross-functional partners
Understand and be fluent in day-to-day commercialization systems, routines and ways of working
Translate research findings and test results into clear business implications, including the “why” behind recommendations and the expected impact
Qualifications
BS or MS in Packaging, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field
Bachelor’s degree plus a minimum of 6 years of relevant packaging development experience within CPG, food and beverage, or related industry; or master’s degree plus a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience, or PhD plus a minimum of 4 years of relevant experience
Demonstrated ability to lead, coach and motivate others
Prior people management experience preferred
Proven ability to lead and execute technically complex packaging projects
Strong knowledge of packaging materials, equipment, material interactions, and packaging laboratory test methods
Excellent communication, influencing, critical thinking, project management, and problem-solving skills
Proven ability to independently manage multiple projects concurrently with the ability to prioritize effectively
Strong understanding of Design of Experiments and statistical analysis
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 - $130,200.00Bonus: 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 CenterKraft 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.