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Entry Level Food Research Development Jobs in Chicago, IL

fairlife

Research Scientist

Chicago, IL · On-site

... Development and Operations, optimizing formulation and processing choices for fluid dairy beverages ... Dairy/Food Physical Chemistry: Deep understanding of the interactions between proteins, fats ...

fairlife

Research Scientist

Chicago, IL · On-site

... Development and Operations, optimizing formulation and processing choices for fluid dairy beverages ... Dairy/Food Physical Chemistry: Deep understanding of the interactions between proteins, fats ...

fairlife

Research Scientist

Chicago, IL

... Development and Operations, optimizing formulation and processing choices for fluid dairy beverages ... Dairy/Food Physical Chemistry: Deep understanding of the interactions between proteins, fats ...

Kraft Heinz Company

Packaging R&D Co-op

Glenview, IL · On-site

$24K/mo

With iconic and emerging food and beverage brands around the world, we deliver the best taste, fun ... This position and entry level positions candidates may be offered following this program are not ...

Kraft Heinz

Packaging R&D Co-op

Glenview, IL

$24K/mo

With iconic and emerging food and beverage brands around the world, we deliver the best taste, fun ... This position and entry level positions candidates may be offered following this programare not ...

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Entry Level Food Research Development information

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$13

$26

$41

How much do entry level food research development jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level food research development in Chicago, IL is $26.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.81 and $31.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level food research development professional?

To thrive as an Entry Level Food Research Development professional, you generally need a background in food science, chemistry, or a related field, often supported by a bachelor’s degree. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, sensory analysis tools, and food safety regulations such as HACCP is typically required. Curiosity, attention to detail, and effective team communication are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, innovative product development and successful collaboration with cross-functional teams in a regulated industry.

What is an entry level food research development job?

Entry level food research development jobs involve assisting in the creation and improvement of food products. People in these roles typically work in laboratories or test kitchens, supporting senior scientists with tasks like conducting experiments, collecting data, and analyzing ingredients. They help develop new recipes, enhance food safety, and improve the taste, texture, or nutritional value of foods. These positions often require a background in food science or a related field and offer opportunities to learn hands-on research and product development skills.

What is the difference between Entry Level Food Research Development vs Food Quality Assurance Technician?

AspectEntry Level Food Research DevelopmentFood Quality Assurance Technician
CredentialsBachelor's in Food Science, Nutrition, or related fieldBachelor's in Food Science, Microbiology, or related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, R&D facilities, product development settingsManufacturing plants, quality control labs, production lines
Employer & Industry UsageFood companies, R&D departments, product innovation teamsFood manufacturing, processing plants, quality assurance departments
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While both roles require a background in food science and involve working within the food industry, Entry Level Food Research Development focuses on creating and testing new products in labs, whereas Food Quality Assurance Technicians primarily ensure existing products meet quality and safety standards on production lines.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level food research development professionals, and how can they overcome them?

Entry-level professionals in Food Research and Development often face challenges such as adapting to fast-paced project timelines, balancing creativity with strict food safety regulations, and learning to work effectively within cross-functional teams. To overcome these challenges, it's important to stay organized, seek guidance from experienced colleagues, and proactively communicate any uncertainties. Embracing continuous learning, especially about new ingredients and technologies, also helps in building confidence and contributing more effectively to innovative product development.
What are the most commonly searched types of Food Research Development jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Food Research Development jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Food Research Development jobs in Chicago, IL? For Entry Level Food Research Development jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Food Research Development jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Food Research Development jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Entry Level Food Research Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Food Research Development job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 13% Internship, 62% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 87% In-person, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,826 per year, or $26.8 per hour.

Research & Development Product Assistant

Kraft Heinz Company

Glenview, IL • On-site

$24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Kraft Heinz rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 122 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

231st of 435 rated food and drinks producers

Job description


Job Purpose
As a Research & Development Product Assistant for Kraft Heinz, you will support product development and innovation activities by performing hands-on laboratory food preparation, sample handling, testing, and documentation. This role works closely with food scientists and product/packaging developers to ensure accurate execution of test formulas, data collection, and maintenance of a safe, organized lab environment. The technician contributes to the development and refinement of products through consistent application of protocols, quality standards, and operational excellence.
Essential Functions & Responsibilities
  • Prepare ingredients, formulas, and product samples per established procedures and specifications

  • Conduct routine laboratory tests, measurements, evaluations, and tastings; accurately record observations and data

  • Responsible for all operational tasks for shelf-life studies, including preparing samples, loading and retrieving samples from shelf-life chambers, analytical testing, and cleaning workspaces

  • Moderate weekly shelf-life showings; take notes and document results

  • Participate in taste evaluations for relevant product categories

  • Organize, label, and manage samples, materials, and test inventory

  • Operate, clean, and calibrate laboratory equipment (e.g., scales, ovens, pH meters, viscometers)

  • Ensure day-to-day laboratory operations run efficiently by maintaining cleanliness, organization, inventory level, and timely supply ordering in support of product development activities.

  • Assist with pilot plant preparation and small-scale pilot production runs

  • Package and ship R&D samples as needed

  • Document test results, specifications, and formulation notes in digital systems and/or lab notebooks

  • Collaborate with R&D scientists and cross-functional teams to support product development work

  • Adhere to safety policies, PPE requirements, and standard operating procedures (SOPs)

Expected Experience & Required Skills
  • High school diploma required, with prior experience working in a laboratory, pilot plant, food production, or technical environment is preferred.

  • Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office (Excel, Word) and data entry into lab or inventory systems

  • Familiarity with laboratory equipment such as scales, mixers, ovens, or testing instruments

  • Strong attention to detail, with the ability to accurately follow formulas, SOPs, safety procedures, and documentation requirements

  • Effective verbal and written communication skills, including proper sample labeling, data recording, and collaboration with scientists and team members

  • Demonstrated ability to work both independently and within a team in a fast-paced technical environment

Work Environment & Schedule
  • Relocation & Sponsorship: This role is based onsite at the Kraft Heinz R&D 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 full-time 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 project-based activities within standard operational hours.

Compensation & Benefits Overview
  • Hourly Pay: Starting at $24/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 pilot plant support.

  • Work may involve proximity to moving mechanical equipment and cleaning agents used in sanitation processes.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain all duties or responsibilities that are required of the role. Duties or responsibilities may change or be added with or without notice.
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, 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 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

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