Associate Packaging Engineer

WHO WE ARE

We’re Talking Rain Beverage Company, we create better-for-you beverages featuring great flavors and colors from natural sources. We live life in full flavor and believe the world should too. We create connections with every sip of our iconic Sparkling Ice, Sparkling Ice Caffeine, Sparkling Ice Energy, Popwell and MIXT. When it comes to success, we know we’re only as strong as our team. That’s why we’re an equal‑opportunity employer. We value diversity and practice inclusivity, hiring great people who enhance our company. Our Rain Makers are our most important asset. That’s why we invest in them with benefits and development opportunities that reflect just how much we value them.

WHAT YOU’LL DO

As an Associate Packaging Engineer, you will play a crucial role in the research, development and implementation of sustainable packaging solutions for products within the organization. We are passionate about sustainability, creativity, and excellence in everything we do. We are currently seeking a motivated and talented Associate Packaging Engineer to join our dynamic team and contribute to our packaging development and improvement efforts. Here, you’ll drive, leveraging your technical knowledge of packaging material and packaging process, to commercialize products across our co‑pack network. Reports to: Sr. Manager, Quality Design Direct Reports: N/A Location: On‑Site at our Preston, WA office 4+ days a week While we strive to offer flexibility, this role also requires it. There may be times when you’re expected to come onsite outside your typical in‑office days to support special projects, team events, or other business needs. Annual Bonus Potential: 7% – Eligibility is based on the company hitting annual financial targets. Base Salary: $92,000 – $110,000 (depending on experience) Note : New hires typically receive between minimum and midpoint, however, we may go slightly higher based on experience, internal equity and market. Maintain and update packaging specifications for all package formats (cans, PET, cartons, corrugate trays, wraps, multi‑packs, etc.), including dimensions, materials, tolerances, and performance requirements. Review and approve engineering drawings, material dielines, and specification sheets in alignment with brand, regulatory, and co‑manufacturer requirements. Support new product development (NPD) and packaging renovation projects by translating design intent into manufacturable specifications. Maintain active technical relationships with packaging material suppliers, facilitating specification alignment and problem resolution. Serve as the day‑to‑day technical point of contact for packaging‑related inquiries from internal and external parties, including co‑manufacturers, providing guidance on specification interpretation and issue resolution. Conduct on‑site line assessments and trials at co‑manufacturer facilities to evaluate packaging runability, identify sources of downtime or defects, and develop improvement plans. Contribute to the development and revision of internal standards, SOPs, work instructions, and test methods related to packaging quality. Identify and champion cost‑reduction and sustainability improvement opportunities within the packaging portfolio without compromising quality or performance. Ensure food safety, quality, and SQF practices are always followed, notifying immediate manager of any food safety and/or quality issues. Complete other responsibilities as assigned.

WHAT YOU BRING

2+ years of packaging engineering experience, ideally in Consumer‑Packaged Goods. Familiarity with beverage packaging formats and filling/sealing technologies (e.g., canning lines, PET filling, secondary and tertiary packaging) is a plus. Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Engineering, Packaging Technology, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or equivalent experience. This role is safety‑sensitive; you’ll be regularly responsible for your own safety and/or the safety of others (e.g., driving on behalf of the company, working in a warehouse or plant environment). Ability to read and generate insights from engineering drawings and raw material documentation. Proficiency with the Microsoft Office suite (e.g., Outlook, PowerPoint, Excel). Proficiency in using software tools for packaging design and analysis. Excellent written and verbal communication skills; able to translate technical findings for both engineering and non‑technical audiences. Effective communication and interpersonal abilities for collaboration with cross‑functional teams and external suppliers. Passion for sustainability practices and trends in packaging is advantageous. Knowledge of relevant regulations and standards in packaging and labeling. Ability to work in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment and manage multiple projects simultaneously. Self‑motivated with a continuous‑improvement mindset and attention to detail. Ability to travel up to 40% occasionally, working evenings and weekends as needed for special assignments.

WHAT WE OFFER

All regular, full‑time Rain Makers are equipped with everything they need to maintain their health and well‑being. That means things like… Three Weeks of Vacation per calendar year. Additional weeks accrue over time depending on exempt status. FMLA qualifying Rain Makers receive six weeks of paid parental leave. Parents can spend time at home bonding with their new addition (birth, fostering, or adoption). Additional medical leave may be provided as allowed by state law. Flexibility Stipend. For eligible Rain Makers, this monthly stipend may cover phone, internet, or other business uses while working remotely or beyond normal hours. Relocation: Relocation available when offered. On‑site and Hybrid Rain Makers: Get paid to carpool! Drive to work with another Rain Maker at least twice a week and receive mileage reimbursement. 401(k) with immediate vesting, matched contributions, and investment customization. Fitness reimbursements for community events and competitions. On‑site gym in Preston with a personal trainer available two days per week. Medical/Dental/Vision plans, with at least one plan free for all Rain Makers. Vehicle program details for various sales roles (not applicable to this position). Eligibility for the full benefits package requires an average of 30+ hours per week in a regular permanent position. #J-18808-Ljbffr Talking Rain Beverage