Counsel – Global Patents and Innovation

The Kraft Heinz Company

Legal Counsel providing support for R&D innovations at Kraft Heinz. Ensuring patent protection and managing intellectual property for the R&D organization.

Posted 6/2/2026full-timeChicago • Illinois, Pennsylvania • 🇺🇸 United StatesMid-LevelSenior💰 $141,500 - $176,900 per yearWebsite

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Provide legal counsel to the R&D organization to ensure innovations are appropriately protected
Serve as the primary legal resource for designated business units and technology areas within R&D
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
Conduct 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

Requirements

What you’ll need

3+ years of patent experience (in-house experience preferred)
Juris Doctor from an accredited law school with strong academic credentials and specialized patent experience
Registered to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)
Science or technology background in chemistry, biology, engineering, or a related field
Experience preparing and prosecuting chemical and packaging-related patent applications
Advise R&D on patent prosecution strategy, risks, and portfolio development
Negotiate R&D agreements and advising on their appropriate use
Expertise includes conducting freedom-to-operate analyses and assessing third-party patent risk

Benefits

Comp & perks

medical, dental and vision coverage
7% 401(k) matching
Business Resource Groups (BRGs) to help foster diversity, inclusion, and belonging for all employees
industry-leading total rewards package that emphasizes a high discretionary bonus
Wellness events, resources, and learning opportunities

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills & Tools

patent preparationpatent prosecutionportfolio developmentrisk assessmentfreedom-to-operate reviewsnegotiation of agreementsintellectual property trainingchemical patent applicationspackaging patent applicationsadvising on patent strategy

Soft Skills

legal counselcommunicationstrategic thinkingcollaborationnegotiation

Certifications

Juris Doctorregistered to practice before USPTO