Package Test Lab Manager

The Package Test Lab Manager oversees all operations within the packaging test laboratory, ensuring accurate, timely, and compliant testing of packaging materials, components, and finished goods. This role will lead technicians, manage testing protocols, maintains lab accreditation, and partners with cross‑functional teams to support quality, regulatory compliance, and continuous improvement. This position requires a high level of both verbal and written communication skills as interactions with customers, both internal and external will be expected daily.

Responsibilities Lab Operations & Testing Execution Lab Operations Management:

Lead daily lab workflow, scheduling, sample intake, and resource allocation to meet testing timelines and customer commitments

Testing & Validation:

Execute and oversee packaging tests (drop, vibration, compression, environmental) ensuring alignment with ISTA, ASTM, and customer specifications

Test Quality & Reporting:

Review, validate, and communicate test results; ensure accuracy, consistency, and proper documentation/traceability

Cross-Functional Support:

Partner with sales, packaging design, and suppliers to support product development, customer requests, and root cause analysis

Customer & Internal Enablement:

Provide recommendations and insights based on testing outcomes to improve packaging performance and reduce risk

Equipment, Quality & Compliance Equipment Oversight:

Ensure proper calibration, maintenance, and validation of all lab equipment (drop testers, vibration tables, compression testers, environmental chambers)

Quality & Compliance:

Maintain adherence to safety standards, testing protocols, and applicable certifications (ISTA/ASTM); support audits and resolve discrepancies

People Leadership & Lab Development Team Leadership:

Hire, coach, and develop lab technicians; set expectations and ensure adherence to safety and quality standards

Process & SOP Development:

Establish and standardize testing protocols, workflows, and documentation to support scalability and consistency Requirements Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or related field Minimum of 5+ years of packaging testing experience including team leadership responsibilities. Prior experience leading a lab or technical team strongly preferred Experience with packaging materials (corrugate, plastics, films, protective packaging) Familiarity with lab equipment such as compression testers, vibration tables, and environmental chambers Strong knowledge of ISTA, ASTM, Hazmat and TAPPI regulatory packaging standards. Proven people leadership and team development experience