Manager, Package Engineer

Ocean Spray•Lakeville, MA

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

Ocean Spray is hiring for a(n) Manager, Package Engineer! We’re a team of farmers, thinkers, creators, and doers. Whatever your title, whatever your role — it always comes back to this: we’re a farmer-owned co-op where everyone rolls up their sleeves to get the job done. Three maverick farmers started it all — and we’ve been making our own way ever since. Position Location: We're all about flexibility! This will be a hybrid role based out of our corporate headquarters in Lakeville, MA with Mondays and Fridays remote. We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Manager, Package Engineering to lead our packaging innovation and development efforts within the food and beverage sector. This role is responsible for driving the design, development, and implementation of packaging solutions that align with brand strategy, sustainability goals, and operational efficiency. The ideal candidate will bring a strong technical background, leadership capabilities, and a passion for delivering high-quality, consumer-centric packaging in a fast-paced CPG environment.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Science, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
Minimum of 7 years of experience in packaging development within the food, beverage, or broader CPG industry.
At least 2 years of experience in a leadership or managerial role.
Strong knowledge of packaging materials (plastics, paperboard, glass, metal, flexible films) and manufacturing processes.
Experience with packaging testing protocols, shelf-life studies, and regulatory compliance (FDA, USDA, etc.).
Proficiency in CAD software and packaging design tools.
Familiarity with sustainability practices and life cycle analysis (LCA) in packaging.
Excellent project management, organizational, and communication skills.
Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
Ability to lead cross-functional teams and influence stakeholders at all levels.
Requires the ability to travel by plane on a frequent basis.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree preferred.
Beneficial certifications/application knowledge

Responsibilities

Lead and manage the Package Engineering team, providing technical direction, mentorship, and performance management.
Develop and execute packaging strategies that support product innovation, cost optimization, and sustainability initiatives.
Collaborate cross-functionally with Marketing, Operations, Quality, Procurement, and R&D to ensure packaging solutions meet business and regulatory requirements.
Oversee the design, testing, and validation of primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging for new and existing products.
Manage packaging development timelines and budgets, ensuring on-time and on-cost delivery of projects.
Evaluate and implement new packaging materials, technologies, and equipment to enhance product performance and shelf appeal.
Ensure compliance with food safety, regulatory, and environmental standards.
Partner with suppliers and co-manufacturers to drive continuous improvement and innovation in packaging.
Monitor industry trends and emerging technologies to maintain a competitive edge.

Benefits

Complete insurance package on Day-1 that includes a plethora of health and wellness programs
Health, Dental and Vision insurance
Health savings account
Flexible spending account
Life and accident insurance
Employee assistance program
Telehealth services
1:1 health coaching
Supportive benefits for all the stages of your life
401(k) with up to 6% Company matching; additional potential discretionary match at year-end
Short-Term Incentive/Performance bonuses
Flexible scheduling options
Vacation pay, up to three weeks of time (pro-rated for your first year of employment)
Holiday pay for 12 holidays
Career development and growth opportunities
Tuition/Education assistance programs
Access to LinkedIn Learning
Scholarship programs for children of employees
Parental leave
Bright Horizons Family Solutions – Back-up care, tutoring, etc.
Adoption assistance
Bereavement leave
Up to $300 fitness reimbursement
Up to $300 massage reimbursement
Employee appreciation events
Employee discounts
Charitable giving