Biotech Process Development Jobs in Wheeling, IL

Job Purpose

The R&D Microbiology Lab Assistant supports microbiology laboratory operations for the Fermentation and Biotechnology Research and Development team at Kraft Heinz. This role is responsible for hands-on laboratory support, including sample preparation and testing, data collection, and laboratory organization. Working closely with scientists and technical staff, the assistant helps ensure accurate execution of laboratory methods while maintaining a safe, organized, and compliant lab environment.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities

• Collaborate with scientists to understand upcoming experimental needs and prepare microbiological media, glassware, and materials required for laboratory work
• Support experiment planning, setup, and teardown, including assistance with scientific equipment such as benchtop systems and bioreactors
• Operate and maintain analytical and laboratory equipment to support experimental analysis
• Accurately record, document, and report data generated from bench-scale and pilot-scale experiments
• Assist with bench and pilot plant trials to support formulation and process development activities
• Support procurement of laboratory supplies, including ordering, shipping, receiving, and inventory management
• Organize, label, and manage samples, laboratory materials, and consumables
• Maintain general laboratory organization and readiness
• Clean, calibrate, and perform routine maintenance on laboratory equipment and tools
• Maintain laboratory cleanliness and hygiene in compliance with GMP, food safety, and safety requirements
• Adhere to all safety policies, procedures, and PPE requirements

Expected Experience & Required Skills

• Associate's degree in related technical or scientific field, or high school diploma with 2+ years of relevant laboratory, manufacturing, pilot plant, mechanical, or technical experience.
• Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) and data entry into laboratory or inventory systems.
• Ability to perform technical mathematical calculations, including unit conversions, concentrations, percentages, and basic algebra, to support laboratory and process technical work.
• Familiarity with general laboratory equipment (e.g., scales, mixers, ovens, testing instruments); ability to learn microbiology laboratory techniques.
• Familiarity with aseptic techniques is a plus, but not required.
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to accurately follow SOPs, safety procedures, and documentation requirements.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills, including proper sample labeling, data recording, and collaboration with team members.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced technical environment.

Work Environment & Schedule

• Relocation & Sponsorship: This role ites 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 fulltime 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 projectbased 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.
• Work may involve driving to move equipment or samples between company sites.

Benefits: Coverage for employees (and their eligible dependents) through affordable access to healthcare, protection, and savingfor the future, we offer plans tailored to meet you and your family's needs. Coveragefor 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 aphysical, 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)

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.