Packaging Engineer

Northrop Grumman • Plymouth, MN

26d

About The Position

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work — and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history. Northrop Grumman is currently seeking an experienced Packaging Engineer that supports our ammunition business segment at Armament Systems Division in our Plymouth, MN offices. The Packaging Engineer will be responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing packaging solutions that support our production processes. The successful candidate will collaborate with cross-functional teams - including production engineering, quality assurance, and supply chain - to ensure efficient, cost-effective packaging that protects our products throughout their lifecycle. This career opportunity is a great fit for a self-motivated, proactive individual who will support a variety of projects for the Northrop Grumman Armament Systems Division. The candidate will apply strong engineering fundamentals, demonstrate clear communication with those they interact with, and must be able to support up to 25% of domestic travel. If you thrive on attention to detail and want different challenges each day, this is the place for you. Put your skills to the test by pushing the boundaries of what's possible. From global defense to sustainment and modernization to mission readiness, your experience and ability will make it a reality. Our programs are built on equal parts of curiosity and collaboration. Our combined effort means our customers can connect and defend millions of people around the world. With Northrop Grumman, you'll have the opportunity to be an essential part of projects that will define your career, now and in the future. Position Description Report to the Large Caliber Ammunition Engineering Manager and provide packaging engineering oversight for Northrop Grumman's ammunition programs. Coordinate with internal/external production teams and serve as the primary interface for Program, Design, Quality, and Operations Engineering to ensure packaging solutions meet customer requirements and program objectives. Own end‑to‑end delivery of high‑quality, regulatory-compliant packaging— from design and supplier quality audits to First Article Acceptance Testing—ensuring fire‑safe, functional packaging that prioritizes soldier safety. Develop innovative packaging designs and production process details, including marking instructions, while continuously evaluating materials and methods to enhance manufacturability, reduce costs, and minimize environmental impact. Conduct testing and validation of packaging methods, documenting results and recommending corrective actions as needed. Collaborate closely with production engineering to evaluate packaging designs, ensure manufacturability, and implement process improvements. Work with suppliers and vendors to source and qualify packaging materials that meet quality and performance standards. Develop and maintain technical documentation, including drawings, specifications, and process instructions. Actively participate in cross-functional meetings to share insights, report progress, and propose packaging innovations. Act as the packaging subject matter expert and coordinate testing with external vendors to meet deadlines, with approximately 25% travel required to support customers and suppliers.

Requirements

• This position emphasizes skills and requires a minimum of 6 years of experience. Will consider a Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field with 2 years of experience.
• 2+ years of experience in packaging engineering, preferably with production support responsibilities.
• Strong understanding of packaging design principles, materials, and manufacturing processes.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and an ability to analyze complex issues related to packaging performance and production integration.
• Effective communication skills and a proven track record of collaborating successfully with cross-functional teams.
• Knowledge of hazardous material packaging and compliance.
• Ability to travel up to 25% of the time.
• Must be U.S. Citizen and be able to acquire a Secret Security Clearance.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with CAD and packaging design software is a plus.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Experience with POP certified packaging.
• Familiarity with military standards/specifications.
• Experience with the department of defense in package development.
• Familiarity with sustainability initiatives and environmentally friendly packaging solutions.
• Knowledge of Lean manufacturing/Poka-Yoke principles.

Responsibilities

• Report to the Large Caliber Ammunition Engineering Manager and provide packaging engineering oversight for Northrop Grumman's ammunition programs.
• Coordinate with internal/external production teams and serve as the primary interface for Program, Design, Quality, and Operations Engineering to ensure packaging solutions meet customer requirements and program objectives.
• Own end‑to‑end delivery of high‑quality, regulatory-compliant packaging— from design and supplier quality audits to First Article Acceptance Testing—ensuring fire‑safe, functional packaging that prioritizes soldier safety.
• Develop innovative packaging designs and production process details, including marking instructions, while continuously evaluating materials and methods to enhance manufacturability, reduce costs, and minimize environmental impact.
• Conduct testing and validation of packaging methods, documenting results and recommending corrective actions as needed.
• Collaborate closely with production engineering to evaluate packaging designs, ensure manufacturability, and implement process improvements.
• Work with suppliers and vendors to source and qualify packaging materials that meet quality and performance standards.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, including drawings, specifications, and process instructions.
• Actively participate in cross-functional meetings to share insights, report progress, and propose packaging innovations.
• Act as the packaging subject matter expert and coordinate testing with external vendors to meet deadlines, with approximately 25% travel required to support customers and suppliers.

Benefits

• Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.
• Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results.
• Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives.
• In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees