Packaging Development Engineer

Staffmark Group • Phoenix, AZ

53d

About The Position

The client is a specialty a contract packaging (copacker) /OEM food manufacturer known for developing and producing custom specialized dry goods (seasonings/mixes) to liquid/viscous products (sauces/dressings) for a diverse customer base spanning retail, wholesale, foodservice, and industrial needs. They are seeking an experienced Packaging Engineer to join their R&D team. This critical role involves the end-to-end development and design of packaging materials and containers for both new and existing food products. The engineer will evaluate materials for high-volume production, ensure quality standards are met, and lead key cost reduction and sustainability initiatives.

Requirements

• A minimum of 3 years of professional packaging design or material development experience within the food, beverage, or Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industries.
• Demonstrated knowledge of a variety of packaging materials, including but not limited to plastics, laminated films, paper containers, and bottles.
• Solid understanding of packaging machinery and filling equipment, including the ability to conduct compatibility assessments.
• Proven experience in negotiation with packaging suppliers and/or purchasing packaging materials.

Nice To Haves

• Direct experience with packaging materials for dry goods (seasonings/mixes) and/or liquid/viscous products (sauces/dressings).
• Direct experience working within a contract packaging (copacker) or OEM manufacturing environment.
• Prior experience working directly within Food Manufacturing environments, particularly those dealing with seasonings, sauces, or confectionery.
• Experience gained at a Packaging Material Manufacturer (e.g., plastic, laminate, paperboard).
• A Bachelor's degree in Packaging Science, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.

Responsibilities

• Develop, select, and design appropriate containers, films, and packaging materials for all new food products, specifically focusing on the unique requirements for sauces, seasonings, and dry mixes.
• Propose, champion, and implement sustainable packaging solutions, such as paper conversion and the increased use of recycled and biodegradable materials.
• Act as the primary technical liaison, collaborating and negotiating with external packaging material suppliers, printing companies, and filling machine manufacturers.
• Evaluate and confirm the suitability of packaging on mass production and filling lines, while providing expert technical support to troubleshoot and resolve packaging-related production issues in a copacking/contract manufacturing environment.
• Establish comprehensive packaging specifications and define quality and durability testing standards to ensure product integrity and shelf-life.
• Partner closely with cross-functional teams, including Marketing, Product Development, and Manufacturing, to deliver optimal packaging solutions throughout the entire product lifecycle.
• Lead efforts to identify and implement cost reduction measures related to packaging and materials procurement.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Administrative and Support Services
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees