Senior Scientist, R&D – Fermentation Scientist
The Senior Scientist, R&D – Fermentation Scientist is part of the central Research & Development organization on the Fermentation & Biotechnology team at the Kraft Heinz Innovation Center in Glenview, IL. This role leads microbiology and fermentation technology development through the design and execution of research projects. The role combines hands-on bench microbiology, bench- and pilot-scale fermentation, and understanding of commercial-scale processes.
This person will apply strong scientific judgment to solve technical challenges, translate findings into clear recommendations, and connect technical work to business and commercialization needs. Success in this role requires critical thinking, collaboration, project leadership, and comfort working with ambiguity.
This role partners closely with internal brand R&D teams and cross-functional stakeholders, including R&D, Procurement, Operations, Quality, Regulatory, and external scientific collaborators.
KEY COMPONENTS OF THE ROLE:
Diagnose microbial, process, and equipment-related deviations in culture production, and partner with Operations and R&D to resolve root causes
Perform bench microbiology, including plating, enumeration, isolation, strain verification, and media design and optimization for lactic and acetic acid bacteria
Design, support, and execute microbiology and fermentation research projects, then summarize results for technical and non-technical audiences
Identify and communicate the broader implications of proof-of-concept results, including financial impact , scale-up risks, and timeline considerations
Partner with cross-functional teams to lead and support projects from concept through commercialization, including Marketing, Operations, Quality, External Manufacturers, and Procurement
B.S. degree in Microbiology , Food Science and Technology, Fermentation Sciences, or related fields. M.S. or PhD preferred
Demonstrated proficiency in plating, enumeration, strain isolation, and general microbiological techniques
Familiarity with microbial genetics, strain characterization, molecular tools, and metagenomic analyses
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:
$89,800.00 - $112,200.00
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 [email protected] for assistance.
