Packaging Engineer

International Automotive Components•Troy, MI

About The Position

Ensures automotive components are protected during transit from the supplier to our IAC plant (RAW), within the plant (WIP), and to the customer (FG). This role involves working with suppliers and plant personnel to design, develop, and test packaging solutions that balance cost-effectiveness, sustainability, and the safe delivery of automotive parts. It's a cross-functional position requiring strong collaboration with internal teams, suppliers, and customers.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in packaging engineering, preferably in the automotive industry as a Tier 1 supplier.
Strong knowledge of various packaging materials (e.g., corrugate, plastics, foams, molded pulp, steel, aluminum).
Strong project management and organization skills.
Proficient in cost benefit analysis and continuous improvement.
Familiarity with CAD software and 3d Modeling (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, CATIA).
Familiarity with industry standards such as ASTM and ISTA.
Understanding of packaging testing and validation methodologies.
Knowledge of OEM automotive manufacturing processes and Packaging processes.
Excellent communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills.
Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities.
Ability to work effectively in a team environment and lead projects independently.
Detail-oriented with a focus on delivering high-quality results.

Nice To Haves

A Master's degree may be preferred.
Experience in purchasing, manufacturing engineering, supply chain, or warehousing operations is a plus.

Responsibilities

Establish and execute packaging concepts with optimal effectiveness.
Develops and specifies new and revised packaging.
Develops and implements process improvements.
Requires advanced knowledge of industry regulatory requirements for packaging components and their related testing and documentation.
Leads supplier and plant design and development of innovative and functional packaging solutions (returnable and expendable) that meet specific requirements for automotive components.
Considers factors such as product protection, material flow, logistics, and ergonomic handling within the automotive manufacturing environment.
Develops and approves package testing plans and interprets results.
Partners with external packaging suppliers to ensure packaging solutions meet design specifications and quality standards.
Leads in selecting and managing packaging vendors.
Analyzes current packaging processes and designs to identify opportunities for cost reduction and efficiency improvement.
Evaluates expendable vs. returnable container costs to improve quality and reduce costs.
Coordinates efforts to minimize material handling and optimize warehouse layouts.
Ensures packaging designs and processes adhere to relevant industry standards and regulations (e.g., IATF 16949, ISO 9001).
May develop and maintain Logistics Management Information (LMI) and Special Packaging Instructions (SPI) in accordance with customer and regulatory requirements.
Addresses supplier compliance issues and assists with quality-related investigations.
Manages multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring adherence to timelines and budgets.
Leads cross-functional project teams, providing technical guidance and expertise.