Packaging Engineer

Key Responsibilities:

• Packaging Design & Development: Design and develop packaging solutions that meet product specifications, reduce costs, and ensure protection during transportation and storage.

• Material Selection & Testing: Select appropriate packaging materials (e.g., cardboard, plastics, glass, etc.) based on product requirements, durability, and environmental impact. Conduct material testing to assess performance.

• Sustainability Initiatives: Identify opportunities to reduce waste and improve the environmental footprint by incorporating sustainable packaging materials and optimizing packaging design to reduce excess.

• Packaging Optimization: Analyze and recommend improvements to existing packaging processes and materials to improve cost efficiency, functionality, and environmental impact.

• Cost Management: Evaluate packaging costs, conduct cost-benefit analyses, and identify ways to reduce packaging expenses while maintaining product safety and integrity.

• Prototyping & Testing: Develop prototypes and test packaging designs to ensure that they meet performance criteria, including durability, shelf-life, and compliance with industry regulations (e.g., FDA, ISO, etc.).

• Supply Chain Collaboration: Work closely with suppliers, manufacturers, and logistics teams to ensure packaging designs are optimized for the entire supply chain, from production to distribution.

• Packaging Innovation: Stay up to date with the latest trends and technologies in packaging design and materials. Explore innovative packaging solutions to improve functionality, user experience, and environmental impact.

• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure all packaging designs comply with relevant regulatory standards (e.g., safety, environmental regulations) and industry guidelines.

• Project Management: Manage multiple packaging projects from concept to implementation, ensuring deadlines are met and the final product meets performance standards.

• Documentation & Reporting: Create detailed packaging specifications, test reports, and design documentation. Communicate packaging performance, issues, and solutions to management.

• Cross-Department Collaboration: Collaborate with product development, quality control, and marketing teams to align packaging designs with product needs and branding guidelines.

Requirements:

• Bachelors degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Design, or a related field.

• Proven experience in packaging design and engineering (typically 3-5 years).

• Strong knowledge of packaging materials, design principles, and manufacturing processes.

• Familiarity with packaging testing methods, such as ISTA, ASTM, or ISO standards.

• Proficiency with packaging design software (e.g., ArtiosCAD, SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or similar).

• Strong understanding of supply chain processes and the role packaging plays in logistics and product protection.

• Ability to perform cost analyses and manage packaging budgets effectively.

• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present findings and recommendations to senior management.

• Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams, including product development, marketing, and logistics.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with sustainable packaging and knowledge of environmentally-friendly materials.

• Certification in packaging, such as Certified Packaging Professional (CPP).

• Familiarity with automation in packaging (e.g., robotic packaging lines, automated cartonization).

• Experience working with packaging suppliers and manufacturers.

• Knowledge of international packaging regulations for global product distribution.

Working Conditions:

• Full-time position, with occasional travel required to visit suppliers, manufacturing sites, or conduct testing.

• Work in an office and/or manufacturing environment, with access to design and testing tools.

• Ability to work under pressure to meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.