Packaging Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

Summary

Leads end-to-end execution of packaging and product implementation projects from concept through launch and closeout. Ensures all work is technically sound, compliant, operationally ready, fully documented, and successfully stabilized in production. This is a senior, hands-on role requiring strong technical expertise, ownership, and project discipline.

Key Responsibilities

• Project Ownership: Lead packaging and new product launches through design, supplier alignment, trials, startup, and closure. Manage timelines, risks, and deliverables across multiple projects while ensuring plant readiness and no unresolved technical gaps.
• Technical Specifications: Create and control detailed packaging specs for materials and components (bottles, labels, films, corrugate, etc.). Ensure accuracy, completeness, and revision control to support operations, suppliers, and compliance.
• Packaging Expertise: Evaluate materials for manufacturability, performance, and quality. Identify risks (e.g., leaks, defects, inefficiencies) and lead root cause analysis and corrective actions.
• Compliance & Documentation: Ensure adherence to regulatory, customer, and food safety requirements. Maintain fully documented, audit-ready records and prevent release of incomplete specs.
• OEM & Equipment Integration: Partner with OEMs and suppliers to ensure equipment capability and readiness. Support FAT/SAT, commissioning, and confirm availability of change parts, settings, and technical support.
• Plant Execution: Lead trials, validation runs, and startup activities. Track issues and drive resolution until stable, repeatable production is achieved.
• Systems & Coordination: Ensure accurate BOMs, ERP setup, and controlled documents. Lead cross-functional teams (Operations, Quality, Maintenance, Procurement) and enforce accountability.
• Continuous Improvement: Strengthen stage-gate processes, standardize execution, and reduce launch delays and packaging-related failures.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Packaging, Engineering, Materials, Food Science, or similar (preferred)
• 7+ years in packaging, manufacturing, or technical project roles
• 5+ years leading product/packaging implementations end-to-end
• Experience with suppliers, OEMs, and regulated manufacturing environments
• CPG, food, pharma, or similar industry experience preferred

Skills

• Deep knowledge of packaging materials, specs, tolerances, and failure modes
• Strong project management, troubleshooting, and root cause analysis skills
• Experience with equipment integration, line trials, and startup execution
• Proficient in ERP systems, Excel, and technical documentation
• Strong communication across plant, leadership, and external partners

Work Environment

• Manufacturing setting with regular plant-floor involvement
• Requires flexibility for trials, startups, and project demands