We grow our people to grow our business, because we believe that great people make great companies. When you join our table, you can expect access to an array of holistic wellness benefits* and perks, including medical, dental and vision coverage, 7% 401(k) matching, Business Resource Groups (BRGs) to help foster diversity, inclusion, and belonging for all employees, an industry-leading total rewards package that emphasizes a high discretionary bonus.
*Benefits begin immediately upon hire for salaried employees.
In joining our Global Patents and Innovation Team, you will provide legal counsel to the R&D organization to ensure current and future innovations are appropriately protected. You will be expected to bring expertise in patent preparation and prosecution, freedom‑to‑operate analysis, intellectual property protection strategy, trade secrets, and R&D agreements. This is a hybrid role requiring 3 days onsite weekly out of 1 of 4 primary locations (See below):
- World HQ in downtown Chicago, IL
- R&D Center in Glenview, IL
- Kraft Heinz Innovation Center - Warrendale, PA
- Co-HQ in downtown Pittsburgh, PA
Serve as the primary legal resource for designated business units and technology areas within R&D as part of our Global Patents and Innovation team.
Advise R&D on intellectual property protection strategies, including patent preparation, prosecution decisions, portfolio development, and risk assessment.
Drive strategic patent filing decisions aligned with innovation roadmaps and business priorities.
Draft, review, and negotiate R&D-related agreements, including non-disclosure, material transfer, joint development, and license agreements.
Advise on the appropriate structure and use of R&D agreements to protect IP ownership, exclusivity, and trade secrets.
Conduct and advise on freedom‑to‑operate reviews for new technologies and products entering the market.
Develop and deliver intellectual property–related training for R&D and other internal stakeholders.
Manage and oversee outside counsel to ensure quality and cost‑effective legal support.
Support compliance with company policies related to signatory authority, ethics, and trade secret protection.
I bring 3+ years of patent experience (in-house experience preferred).
I achieved a Juris Doctor from an accredited law school with strong academic credentials and specialized patent experience.
I am registered to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
I obtained a science or technology background in chemistry, biology, engineering, or a related field.
I have experience preparing and prosecuting chemical and packaging‑related patent applications.
I advise R&D on patent prosecution strategy, risks, and portfolio development.
I negotiate R&D agreements and advising on their appropriate use.
My expertise includes conducting freedom‑to‑operate analyses and assessing third‑party patent risk.
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:
$141,500.00 - $176,900.00Bonus: 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)
Chicago/Aon Center, Glenview R&D Center, Heinz Innovation Center, Pittsburgh/PPGKraft 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.
Skills Required
- 3+ years of patent experience
- Juris Doctor from an accredited law school
- Registered to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
- Science or technology background in chemistry, biology, engineering, or a related field
- Experience preparing and prosecuting chemical and packaging-related patent applications
- Advising R&D on patent prosecution strategy, risks, and portfolio development
- Negotiating R&D agreements
- Conducting freedom-to-operate analyses
What We Do
The Kraft Heinz Company is one of the largest food and beverage companies in the world, with eight $1 billion+ brands and global sales of approximately $25 billion. We’re a globally trusted producer of high-quality, great-tasting, and nutritious foods for over 150 years.
