Packaging Engineer - Columbus, OH

Abbott • Columbus, OH

2d • $61,300 - $122,700 • Onsite

About The Position

The Packaging Engineer works within Abbott Nutrition’s Global Packaging Operations group and reports directly to the Packaging Technical Services Manager. The role implements and supports test method validation and instrument qualification programs that meet quality and regulatory requirements. It requires in-depth knowledge of validation activities in a laboratory setting, including expectations and success criteria, and supports validation administration, development of a Validation Master Plan, project execution, and tracking validation progress among the group and cross-functional partners.

The role performs primary and secondary packaging testing as part of daily operations and provides technical knowledge and leadership to identify and implement packaging programs for Abbott Nutrition. Packaging applications include bottles, closures, adhesive labels, shrink sleeves, corrugated shippers, paper cartons, and printing technologies. The engineer applies advanced methods and techniques to design and execute new packaging materials and structures, develop and validate test methods, develop packaging concepts, and optimize existing packaging for nutritional products.

The position collaborates across divisions and regions with Packaging Operations, Labeling, Procurement, and Quality Assurance. It requires domestic and international travel, sometimes at short notice and for extended durations; the listing specifies travel of 10% of the time.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science degree in Packaging, Engineering, or a related technical field.
• At least 1 year of packaging technical experience.
• Experience in validation activities such as test method validation and equipment/instrument qualification.
• Ability to understand and follow internal and external validation requirements.
• Ability to understand and follow industry standard guidelines and test methods, such as ISO, ASTM, and ISTA.
• Experience with packaging test equipment and packaging software programs such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and Cape Pack.
• Thorough technical knowledge of a wide range of packaging materials, structures, and printed material manufacturing processes.
• Experience resolving supply chain challenges.
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects.
• Demonstrated leadership skills.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Ability to effectively interface with broad global cross-functional teams.
• Demonstrated ability to make decisions independently.
• Effective critical-thinking skills.
• Willingness to travel 10% of the time, including domestic and international travel.

Nice To Haves

• ISTA certification.

Responsibilities

• Implement and support test method validation and instrument qualification programs that meet quality and regulatory requirements.
• Support instrument qualification, test method development, and test method validation.
• Become a subject matter expert in test method validation and instrument qualification.
• Perform validation administration, including planning, project management, and reporting.
• Execute primary and secondary packaging tests supporting R&D and Operations.
• Identify and develop new packaging structures from concept through commercialization.
• Develop and produce packaging mock-up samples for design review.
• Support and lead package function and distribution testing in the Packaging Lab.
• Implement project work for Abbott sites and third-party co-packaging manufacturers.
• Identify and implement cost-optimized opportunities with existing packaging.
• Provide technical expertise on packaging issues.
• Provide detailed validation and technical input to organizations working on major capital projects.
• Provide technical input to manufacturing sites on instrument qualification and test method transfer.
• Collaborate with Packaging Operations, Labeling, Procurement, Quality Assurance, and cross-functional partners across divisions and regions.

Benefits

• Employees may qualify for free medical coverage in the Health Investment Plan (HIP) PPO medical plan in the next calendar year.
• Retirement savings plan with a high employer contribution.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Freedom 2 Save student debt program.
• FreeU education benefit, providing an affordable and convenient path to a bachelor’s degree.
• Career development opportunities with an international company.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level