Research Lead, R&D – Process Technology Enabler Group at The Kraft Heinz Company

Job DescriptionResearch Lead, R&D – Process Technology Enabler GroupOur Company· The Kraft Heinz Company is revolutionizing the food industry – we will be the most profitable food company powered by the most talented people with unwavering commitment to our communities, leading brands and highest product quality in every category in which we compete. As a global food and beverage powerhouse, Kraft Heinz represents over $29 billion in revenue and is the 3rd largest food and beverage company in North America and 5th largest in the world. At Kraft Heinz, to be the BEST food company, growing a BETTER world is more than a dream – it is our GLOBAL VISION. To be the best, we want the best – best brands, best practices and, most importantly, the best people.Owners Only!· This role is intended for someone who welcomes a global challenge and will be accountable for delivering the model across the Kraft Heinz enterprise. The role combines strategic planning with tactical execution. Applicants who are not willing to work hands-on or to develop functions from first principles—and who solely rely on turnkey solutions—are not a fit.Role / Title (Position Purpose)· This is a Research and Development (R&D) Lead role in the North American Process Technology organization responsible for identifying, researching, validating, and delivering technology enablers that unlock manufacturing network efficiencies and capability, resolve service and quality challenges, and enable growth & ESG initiatives.· This position requires an individual to manage, guide and lead a team of 3 to 6 individuals with direct and indirect reporting structure. Responsibilities include project management, project execution, professional development, career planning, performance appraisals, motivating, influencing, and inspiring others.· Individual will partner with cross-functional teams to support business case development and execute projects to deliver the organization’s strategic plan while providing coaching and guidance within the Process Technology organization and broadly across R&D.Key Components of the role (Essential Functions and Responsibilities)· Research and develop new systems and technology to deliver zone growth plan· Identify novel solutions to build process technology pipeline· Guide process equipment optimization at internal and external manufacturing facilities· Support equipment installation execution including factory acceptance tests, commissioning, and startups· Prepare equipment specifications and process design scopes to support detailed engineering and procurement sourcing actions· Participate in or lead technical commercialization excellence reviews and champion best practices and ways of working across the R&D function· Build relationships with, interface, and influence cross-functional teams, vendors, industry associations, external experts, non-government organizations, and academic institutions to deliver business results· Provide technical guidance and coaching to R&D teams and developers regarding process technology, capital management, process optimization, engineering design, new equipment designs, quality improvements, and pilot plant scalability· Support career development (skills, competencies) of direct and indirect reports· Drive pilot scale operations to enable test & learn and small scale test market capabilities· Concurrently, lead or manage multiple large initiatives with complex scopes or cross enterprise impact· Participate in technical and design reviews to assess internal and external proposals to support delivery of the zone strategic plan· Help develop organizational standards and leverage industry best practices· This role will serve as the critical linkage between Operations/Engineering/R&D to identify, design and implement modernization of our lines to unlock efficiencies, growth and ESG goals. Engagement with Plant Managers, Plant Quality Managers, Supply Chain Development Leads, Manufacturing Leads, Engineering, line operators & supervisors, maintenance & maintenance supervisors, financial analysts, R&D developers, R&D category leads, and R&D subject matter expertsExperience and Qualifications:· BS/MS/PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering or related engineering discipline· Minimum 10+ years of engineering and technical experience with significant time spent on food process engineering, new technologies research, and equipment optimization· Experience managing a team of engineering or R&D professionals within the food & beverage industry· Strong understanding of process and product interactions within food systems· Expert understanding of continuous improvement principles, process capability, and associated tools· Track record of implementing complex pilot and commercial scale processing solutions· Proven communication and influencing skills with cross-functional teams and external partners· Demonstrated project management capability with experience leading cross-functional initiatives from end-to-end· Expert understanding of equipment & process transformations used in food manufacturing· Experience in equipment research, data analysis and problem-solving· Ability to manage and prioritize multiple short and long-term technical projects· Strong background of coaching, mentoring and leading training programs· Willingness to travel up to 25%EEO StatementKraft Heinz Company, Inc. is an equal employment employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to minorities, females, veterans, and disabled individuals. As an equal opportunity employer, Kraft Heinz Company, Inc. is committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce. In order to ensure reasonable accommodation for individuals protected by Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Veterans Readjustment Act of 1974, and Title I of the American’s with Disabilities Act of 1990, applicants that require accommodation in the job application process may contact 847 646-6044 for assistance.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:$141,500.00 - $176,900.00Bonus: 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 factorsBenefits: 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/AssessmentsSocial - Paid Time Off, Company Holidays, Leave of Absence, Flexible Work Arrangements, Recognition, TrainingEmotional – Employee Assistance Program , Wellbeing Programs, Family Support ProgramsFinancial – 401k, Life, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, DisabilityLocation(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 [email protected] assistance.SummaryLocation: Glenview, ILType: Full time