Job Purpose
AstheSenior Scientist for the R&DPackagingLabatKraft Heinz, you willcoordinate the scheduling and planningof 3 to 4 lab assistantsandmonthlydistribution testing, to meetweeklylab requests. In addition, you will trainteamandsupportpackagingdevelopment and innovation activities by performing hands-on laboratory preparation, sample handling, testing, and documentation.You willbe responsible formanaging thelabdaily activities, equipmentcalibrationand maintenance. This role works closely withfood scientists and product/packagingdevelopers to ensureaccurateexecution ofpackage testing, data collection, and maintenance of a safe, organized lab environment. The technician contributes to the development and refinement ofpackagesthrough consistent application of protocols, quality standards, and operational excellence.
EssentialFunctions &Responsibilities
Coordinate and schedule all lab assistant workflows andall distribution testing
Monitor Lab Assistants activities, testing and reporting, providing direction, coachingas needed, ensuring accuracy and executional excellence
Developpackage testingreportingtemplatesandStandard Operating Procedures (SOP’s)
Identifyopportunities for new/different/upgraded equipment to meet packaging community technical needs and customize protocols for Kraft Heinz
Maintain calibration schedule andcoordinate repairs of equipment with internal maintenance or external equipment vendors,writing and trackingPurchase Ordersand coordination of equipment shipping
Be fully trainedand trainlab assistants and developerson package testingequipment,referring toboth ASTM, ISTA and internal test methods and safety protocolsandcertifications where needed
Conduct routine laboratory testing (including full ISTA 3E pallet testing, materials testing)measurements, evaluations, package inspections; accurately recordingobservations,withpicturesand dataand outputs from packaging equipment(e.g.topload graphsand raw data)withdatareporting documentation
Support Lab Manager on Distribution Test scheduling and Incoming pallet and environmental chambers monitoring
Organize, label, and manage materials, and test inventory
Operate,inspect, and calibrate laboratory equipment and tools (e.g.,vacuum chambers,Instron, compression testers,etc)and coordinate external calibration as needed
Maintain lab cleanliness, hygiene, and compliance withGLP (Good Laboratory Practices), and safety requirements,organizing lab storage and cooler clean outs
Track/monitorequipment check outs and returnsand calibration documentation
Assistinpackaging material preparation for testing
Collaborate with R&Dpackaging developersand cross-functional teams to supportpackagingdevelopment work
Follow all safety policies, PPE requirements, andStandard Operating Procedures(SOPs), updating/creating/validatingprocedures where needed
Operate a forklift andelectricpallet mover (with on-site trainingand certification)
Expected Experience& Required Skills
Bachelor’sdegree in a Scienceor related field, emphasis on packaging, preferred
3-5years of laboratory,mechanical, pilot plant, or technical experience
Computerproficiency, including Microsoft Office (Excel, Word) and data entry into lab or inventory systemsand data analysis experience, Microsoft Word
Familiarity with laboratory equipment such as scales,calipers,andothertesting instruments, with the ability to learn calibration and basic troubleshooting
Strongorganizational skills andattention to detail, with the ability to accuratelydevelop andfollow, SOPs, safety procedures, and documentation requirements.
Strongverbal and written communication skills, including proper sample labeling, data recording, and collaboration with scientists and team members<
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