POSITION SUMMARY: We are seeking a detail-oriented and innovative Packaging Specialist to design, test, and implement packaging solutions that ensure product safety, quality, and sustainability while optimizing cost and efficiency. The ideal candidate will work cross-functionally with product development, manufacturing, supply chain, and marketing teams to develop packaging that meets both technical and branding requirements. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Design and develop packaging for new and existing products, including primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging.
- Collaborate with R&D, Marketing, and Operations teams to understand product requirements and translate them into effective packaging designs.
- Conduct packaging tests (e.g., ISTA, drop, compression, shelf-life) to ensure performance under various conditions.
- Evaluate and select materials and vendors, ensuring compliance with regulations, sustainability goals, and cost targets.
- Ensure packaging designs support food safety, quality, and regulatory compliance (e.g., FDA, FSMA, USDA).
- Lead packaging development projects from concept through production launch.
- Document all packaging specifications and contribute to technical dossiers for quality and regulatory audits.
- Generate technical drawings, specifications, and documentation for packaging components.
- Analyze packaging-related issues in production or the supply chain and recommend improvements.
- Stay up to date with packaging trends, technologies, and regulations (e.g., FDA, ISO, sustainability guidelines).
- Support continuous improvement initiatives to reduce packaging waste, costs, and environmental impact.
Requirements REQUIRED EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, AND SKILLS:
- Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science or related field
- 3-5 years of experience in packaging design and development
PREFERRED EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, AND SKILLS:
- Knowledge of packaging materials (plastics, paperboard, corrugate, foams, etc.) and manufacturing processes.
- Proficiency in design and packaging simulation tools.
- Familiarity with ISTA testing protocols and regulatory compliance.
- Strong project management, problem-solving, and communication skills.
- Experience working in food & beverage, pharmaceuticals, consumer goods is a plus
- Understanding of sustainability and recyclable/compostable packaging design.
- Knowledge of automation and packaging equipment.
- Lean Six Sigma or similar continuous improvement certification is a plus.
- Position will be based out of our PA facility with some travel required as needed