Packaging Engineer

Bigelow Tea•Fairfield, CT

About The Position

Bigelow Tea is the number one specialty tea company in the United States. We are a family-owned and operated business and a Certified B Corporation. Being a certified B Corp officially recognizes a commitment that has been part of the company’s DNA since it was founded 80 years ago. Our purpose has always been about much more than making profits. We are committed to good citizenship, ethical business practices, accountability, transparency, protecting the environment, sustainability and supporting our communities. We pride ourselves in caring about each and every one of our employees. We have a long-term outlook and are constantly working to create an environment that inspires people to make positive contributions every day. Bigelow is currently looking for a select, talented individual, that shares our values, to join our growing team. SUMMARY Responsible for the innovation, value, and sustainable design of primary and secondary packaging from end-to-end of the materials lifecycle. Deep knowledge and understanding of the processes associated with the industrial, distribution, and business systems through the product lifecycle. Lead company-wide initiatives to establish, document and improve these processes. This individual will manage multiple projects and prioritize tasks based on timelines. The ability to communicate and collaborate effectively with technical and non-technical teams is essential.

Requirements

Bachelor of Science in Packaging Engineering or Material Science, or relevant experience; degree preferred.
Experience with material qualifications, including machine trials.
Understanding of industry standards of Regulatory Compliance and Food Safety
Strong administrative and computer skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, & PowerPoint
Excellent oral / written / interpersonal communication skills with the ability to influence others
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Demonstrated ability to identify and resolve issues in a timely manner, gather and analyze information skillfully to formulate action plans and follow through to completion.
Demonstrated Project Management experience as Project Leader and cross-functional team participant, with demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities
Package Engineering · Minimum of 3-7 years in Package design and development
Advanced knowledge of packaging development and end-to-end manufacturing and supply chain knowledge
In-depth knowledge of the flexible packaging industry, including materials, substrates, and printing technologies
Demonstrated body of knowledge on environmentally responsible packaging concepts
Development and management of specifications for packaging materials and components
Experience performing qualifications including machine trials
Knowledge of Food/CPG Manufacturing Processes, Food Safety, FSMA
Supplier Qualifications
Ability to understand consumer and business needs
Project Management
New Product Development Experience (Interface with R&D, Manufacturing, Procurement)
Integrity
Hands on, Self-Starter, Detail Oriented, Process driven
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
Strong communication, analytical and presentation skills
Ability to work up/down/across an organization
Travel required: 30 - 40%; based in Fairfield

Nice To Haves

Manufacturing Knowledge
Process Controls/Process Capabilities/ Production Efficiency
Supply Chain
Supplier auditing capability
Logistics Systems:
Advanced Excel, Power Point, MS Word, familiarity with ERP systems, Technical Drawing and CAD systems
Systems:
LX/Infor ERP System
Other Skills/Attributes – All Must haves

Responsibilities

Comprehensive full life cycle knowledge of all relevant packaging from raw material sourcing through Bigelow’s primary requirement for use to the post-consumer stream
Design, test and deliver new and revised packaging concepts focusing on innovation, sustainability, functionality, and value.
Focus on sustainable packaging throughout the product life cycle.
Serve as Technology Scout in breakthrough packaging and industry trends; bring concepts and ideas to the business for evaluation.
Bring Manufacturing expertise and deep understanding of machine capabilities and tolerances relative to compatibility with packaging materials.
Deliver results by working in a collaborative, cross-functional environment with Purchasing, Manufacturing, Quality/ R+D and Sales/Marketing to manage the Material Qualification process.
Keep abreast of developing technologies and trends in consumer preferences and share insights with the organization.
Develop detailed packaging specifications to ensure quality and manufacturability of materials for the best value.
Provide technical support to troubleshoot key quality or manufacturing issues.
Participate in Supplier audits and reviews, make recommendations for improvements, as necessary.
Assist Marketing in the development of displays, club packs, etc. to bring innovation, quality, and value to the market.
Develop pallet configurations of both finished goods and incoming packaging materials to optimize product quality and minimize costs.
Lead and support continuous improvement initiatives.