Packaging Engineer

We are seeking an experienced Packaging Engineer to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for the design, development, optimization, and commercialization of packaging solutions across the company's product portfolio. You will also ensure packaging meets functional, regulatory, cost, sustainability, and brand requirements while supporting operational efficiency across manufacturing and distribution. This role operates cross-functionally with R D, Operations, Procurement, Marketing, and Quality to drive speed-to-market, cost optimization, and supply chain resilience.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Packaging Development & Commercialization Lead end-to-end packaging development for new product launches, renovations, and line extensions Translate product and brand requirements into packaging specifications (materials, formats, dimensions) Manage packaging trials, line testing, and validation (IQ/OQ/PQ where applicable) Ensure packaging performs across manufacturing, storage, and distribution environments Cost Optimization & Value Engineering Identify and execute cost savings initiatives across packaging materials, formats, and suppliers Analyze total landed cost (materials, freight, damage, labor impact) Drive material reductions, format simplification, and standardization across SKUs Partner with Procurement on supplier negotiations and alternate sourcing Manufacturing & Operational Support Optimize packaging for production efficiency (line speeds, changeovers, downtime reduction) Troubleshoot packaging-related issues on production lines Support automation initiatives (case packing, palletization, robotics, etc.) Ensure compatibility with existing equipment and future automation roadmap Quality, Compliance & Testing Establish and maintain packaging specifications and standards Ensure compliance with FDA, labeling, food safety, and relevant regulatory requirements Conduct/oversee performance testing (drop tests, compression, seal integrity, shelf life) Partner with Quality on non-conformance investigations and corrective actions Sustainability & ESG Initiatives Lead initiatives to reduce packaging environmental impact (material reduction, recyclability, PCR content) Evaluate trade-offs between sustainability, cost, and performance Support company sustainability goals and reporting Supplier & Material Management Qualify new packaging materials and suppliers Maintain strong relationships with key packaging vendors (films, bottles, corrugate, labels, closures) Monitor supplier performance and drive continuous improvement Manage packaging change control and risk mitigation (dual sourcing, substitutions) Cross-Functional Collaboration Work closely with:

Marketing:

branding, claims, consumer usability

R D:

product-pack compatibility

Operations:

manufacturability and throughput

Supply Chain:

cube optimization, freight efficiency Act as the technical packaging expert in stage-gate or commercialization processes Documentation & Systems Develop and maintain packaging specifications, BOMs, and documentation in ERP/PLM systems Support UPC/label changes and dimensional updates Ensure accurate master data for packaging materials

QUALIFICATIONS

Strong knowledge of packaging materials: flexible films, rigid plastics, glass, corrugate Experience with manufacturing environments and packaging equipment Familiarity with regulatory requirements (FDA, labeling, food safety) Proficiency with testing methods and packaging validation Experience with ERP/PLM systemsExperience managing high SKU counts (500-1,500+) Exposure to co-manufacturing and multiple production sites Background in cost reduction programs tied to margin expansion Experience with automation/robotics integration in packaging lines Sustainability program leadershipStrong analytical and problem-solving skills Ability to balance cost, quality, and speed Cross-functional leadership without direct authority Detail-oriented with systems discipline Commercial mindset (not just technical) EDUCATION and/or

EXPERIENCE

Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field 5-10+ years of experience in CPG packaging (food, beverage, personal care preferred)

LANGUAGE SKILLS

Ability to read, analyze and interpret such items as general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, mechanical drawings, or simple governmental regulations. Ability to write reports, business correspondence, or procedure manuals. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions where a certain degree of tact and discretion is needed.

QUANTITATIVE SKILLS

Ability to comprehend the most complex mathematical and financial principles. Ability to use a computer to create highly customized spreadsheets, charts and reports, and interpret data.

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Good communication, interpersonal and leadership skillsAbility to prioritize multiple projects and work independentlyGood organizational skills, problem-solving skills and attention to detailAbility to work within a team environmentProficiency with MS Word, Excel, AutoCAD and database softwareProficiency in CAD and packaging design softwareExcellent project management and communication skills

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands and/or fingers to type, handle, or feel. The employee frequently is required to stand, sit, and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to walk; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and talk or hear. The employee must view a computer monitor or video display. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 100 pounds.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to airborne particles or strong fumes, notably fumes from alcohol and essential oils. The employee is occasionally exposed to moving mechanical parts. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.