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Product Development Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL

PureEdge Lighting

Product Development Buyer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$28 - $32/hr

Placing orders for tooling and pilot materials, and ensuring that development timelines are met * Assist with cost analysis with Product Development Sourcing Manager. * Works with Marketing ...

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Product Development Assistant information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$15

$25

$43

How much do product development assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for product development assistant in Chicago, IL is $25.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.06 and $27.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a product assistant do?

A product development assistant supports the creation and improvement of products by conducting research, coordinating with teams, and assisting in project management. They often use tools like spreadsheets and project management software and may help with testing prototypes and preparing documentation to ensure product quality and timely delivery.

What are the typical challenges a Product Development Assistant faces when coordinating between cross-functional teams?

Product Development Assistants often act as a bridge between departments such as design, marketing, and manufacturing. A common challenge in this role is ensuring clear communication and alignment on project timelines, specifications, and changes. Balancing multiple priorities while managing feedback from various stakeholders requires strong organizational skills and adaptability. Successful assistants are proactive in clarifying expectations and quickly addressing any issues that may arise, helping to keep projects on track.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Product Development Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Product Development Assistant, you need a solid understanding of product lifecycle management, strong organizational skills, and typically a degree in business, marketing, or a related field. Familiarity with project management tools (like Asana or Trello), Microsoft Office Suite, and sometimes basic knowledge of design software is important. Attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to collaborate cross-functionally are standout soft skills in this position. These abilities ensure smooth coordination of product activities, timely project execution, and effective support for product managers and development teams.

What Does a Product Development Assistant Do?

A product development assistant performs a wide range of duties to support product developers with the design and development of new products. As a product development assistant, your responsibilities may include creating customer product manuals, conducting research into product improvements, and testing prototypes of new products. The qualifications for a career as a product development assistant vary depending on the work environment and employer, but typically require a bachelor’s degree in business, engineering, or a related field and relevant experience. You may also find entry-level positions with a high school diploma and on-the-job training. Additional qualifications include project management and organizational skills, knowledge of manufacturing and production processes, and problem-solving abilities.

How much does a product development assistant make?

The average salary for a product development assistant in New York City is approximately $50,000 to $65,000 per year, depending on experience and industry. Entry-level roles may start lower, while experienced assistants or those with specialized skills can earn higher salaries. Compensation often includes benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.

How much do product developers get paid?

Product development assistants typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level roles may start lower, while experienced professionals or those in specialized fields can earn higher salaries. Skills in project management and familiarity with product lifecycle tools can influence compensation.

What does a product development assistant do?

A product development assistant supports the creation and improvement of products by coordinating research, assisting with design and testing, and managing project documentation. They often work closely with engineers, designers, and marketing teams, using tools like CAD software and project management systems to ensure timely progress. The role typically requires strong organizational skills and knowledge of product lifecycle processes.
More about Product Development Assistant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Product Development jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Product Development jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Product Development Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL? For Product Development Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Product Development Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Product Development Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Product Development Assistant jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Product Development Assistant job openings:
Product Development Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Product Development Assistant job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,460 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Research & Development Product Assistant

Kraft Heinz Company

Glenview, IL • On-site

$24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 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 434 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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