Packaging Engineer (I, II, Sr.)

Perfetti Van Melle•Rockford Township, IL

2d•$75,000 - $105,000

About The Position

Perfetti Van Melle (makers of Mentos, Airheads, Dentyne, Trident and Bubblicious!) is one of the world's largest manufacturers and distributors of confectionery and chewing gum with global brands that are being enjoyed in more than 150 countries worldwide. We’re currently seeking a passionate and enthusiastic Packaging Engineer to join our growing team.The Packaging Engineer II manages the full packaging lifecycle for Trident, Dentyne, Bubbalicious, and Mentos Gum across PVM North America, supporting packaging innovation, design, material specifications, and supplier-level artwork management. The role partners cross-functionally with marketing, sales, production, supply chain, finance, R&D, and customer service to deliver innovative, cost-effective packaging solutions and resolve packaging issues across manufacturing, logistics, and consumer use.

Requirements

3-5 year’s prior experience in each phase of the packaging development process, from concept to the consumer interaction. Proven involvement with the creation of innovative designs. Examples of collaborative team participation.
Bachelor’s degree with internship experience required. Packaging Engineer degree preferred.
MS Office Application experience is required
SAP experience preferred
Experience with artwork processes associated with printed packaging which includes:
Strong knowledge of color and ways to measure.
Understanding of Flexographic, Rotogravure, Digital and Offset print processes.
Strong interpersonal skills is a must as this person will communicate with internal and external stakeholders.
Technical expertise in materials traditionally used for CPG items.
Experience translating concept drawings to technical die lines.
Ability to communicate requirements for product design and a curiosity in applying new materials or structures to our industry.
Emphasis on materials of construction for various primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging used. Must have strong working knowledge of the production of materials and their use at the factory through to the retailer.
High attention to detail is required

Nice To Haves

Packaging Engineer degree preferred.
SAP experience preferred

Responsibilities

Manage supplier-level artwork to ensure packaging meets digital and print specifications for branded items
Develop detailed packaging specifications from dielines through finished printed materials to ensure quality and value
Evaluate and recommend innovative packaging materials, systems, and technologies for current and future applications
Specify new package designs supporting product launches, promotions, and performance enhancements
Provide technical support to plants, co-packers, and co-manufacturers, including quality testing and manufacturing troubleshooting
Collaborate with external packaging, merchandising, and design experts; lead packaging and in-store display design
Support retail execution and analyze consumer and purchasing trends
Travel 10–20% domestically and internationally to assess supplier capabilities, manage pre-press operations, and share best practices
Maintain timely communication with key internal stakeholders—marketing, sales, production, and supply chain—and translate business needs into technical specifications