Associate Engineer, R&D - Mechatronics
Job Description
Job Description
Job Purpose
As the Mechatronics Associate Engineer, you will design, build, test, and support electromechanical prototypes and pilot-scale equipment used for new product development and packaging innovations. The technologist will collaborate with R&D Process and Packaging Engineers, Manufacturing Engineers, and external partners to deliver innovative and scalable solutions that meet scale-up and production requirements.
Essential Functions & Responsibilities
Build, assemble and debug electromechanical and automated prototypes (mechanical assemblies, sensors, actuators, PLCs, HMIs, robotics, pneumatic and servo systems).
Support concept-to-prototype development for processing and packaging equipment used in pilot trials and small-scale production runs.
Program, tune, and troubleshoot PLC and HMI implementations (e.g., Rockwell/Allen‑Bradley, Siemens, or equivalent).
Create and maintain detailed technical documentation: electrical schematics, ladder logic, wiring diagrams, BOMs, test protocols, procedures, and change logs.
Execute lab and pilot-line tests, collect and analyze mechanical, electrical, and process data, and summarize results to R&D and cross-functional stakeholders.
Design and implement test fixtures, jigs, and data-acquisition setups to validate performance, repeatability, and tolerances.
Support scale-up activities: transfer successful R&D designs to manufacturing and provide field support during commissioning.
Participate in root-cause analysis and continuous improvement initiatives focused on reliability, throughput, and safety.
Expected Experience & Required Skills
Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Mechatronics Engineering Technology, Mechatronics, Electromechanical Technology, or closely related technical diploma.
1–4 years of hands-on experience with electromechanical assembly, control systems, smart sensors, and troubleshooting.
Working knowledge of PLCs and HMIs; ability to read and modify ladder logic or equivalent control code.
Proficiency interpreting electrical schematics, pneumatic/hydraulic schematics, mechanical drawings, and basic CAD models.
Practical experience with sensors, servos, stepper motors, pneumatic systems, motor drives, and industrial networking.
Experience with data collection and basic analysis (Excel, basic scripting, or data-logger tools).
Experience with SolidWorks or other CAD tools for basic part modification and assembly review.
Experience with LabVIEW, Python, or other data-acquisition/programming tools.
Work Environment & Schedule
This position is considered a Normal office environment with moderate travel to customer locations, stores, manufacturing facilities, etc.; offices are open workspaces
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:
$68,900.00 - $86,100.00Bonus: 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 CenterKraft 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.