Packaging Engineer

Caterpillar Inc.•Griffin, GA

5d•$89,210 - $133,810•Onsite

About The Position

Our Product Support and Logistics Division (PSLD) is one of the most innovative divisions within Caterpillar. In PSLD, as within all of Caterpillar, our priority is our customers and helping them build a better world. PSLD is responsible for the worldwide distribution of Cat aftermarket parts, integrated logistics, and global service to develop and support our global dealer network and customers. As the Packaging Engineer, you will be responsible for the design and development of returnable and expendable packaging for individual piece parts and bulk shipping to ensure the timely and efficient receipt and delivery of material. The Packaging Engineer will also design packaging solutions for internal logistics processes to ensure part preservation is maintained at an optimum cost. Proper packaging design includes part containment, protection, and optimization of transportation and other supply chain functions. Process partner collaboration is required for this role to ensure packaging solutions provide quantifiable results to process owners and stakeholders. Opportunities for outbound packaging support in future years is also present.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Engineering/Science, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Analytical Thinking: Knowledge of techniques and tools that promote effective analysis; ability to determine the root cause of organizational problems and create alternative solutions that resolve these problems.
Collaborating: Knowledge of collaborative techniques; ability to work with a variety of individuals and groups in a constructive and collaborative manner.
Computer-Aided Design & Engineering: Knowledge of tools and techniques of specialized graphics programs; ability to produce, analyze, simulate and test product design drafts.
Effective Communications: Understanding of effective communication concepts, tools and techniques; ability to effectively transmit, receive, and accurately interpret ideas, information, and needs through the application of appropriate communication behaviors.
Packaging: Knowledge of packaging tools, approaches and practices; ability to package products and components safely and attractively.
Service Excellence: Knowledge of customer service concepts and techniques; ability to meet or exceed customer needs and expectations and provide excellent service in a direct or indirect manner.

Nice To Haves

Technical Excellence: Knowledge of a given technology and various application methods; ability to develop and provide solutions to significant technical challenges. Ability to interpret engineering and supply chain requirements to deliver adequate packaging solutions.
Manufacturing Application Systems: Knowledge of company and industry databases and applications used in a manufacturing environment; ability to operate, maintain and update these systems.
Manufacturing Safety: Knowledge of manufacturing safety; ability to identify work-related hazards and perform necessary activities to meet regulatory requirements for the safety and protection of workers, environment and site.
Troubleshooting Technical Problems: Knowledge of troubleshooting approaches, tools and techniques; ability to anticipate, detect and resolve technical problems in a manufacturing environment
Advanced analytical and data management skills, including proficiency with SAS, Business Objects, Microsoft Access, and advanced Microsoft Excel.
Experience using engineering and packaging design software, including Creo, SolidWorks, Pack Assist, and similar applications.
Demonstrated project management experience, including planning, execution, and cross-functional coordination.
Ability to develop and implement innovative solutions to complex technical and operational challenges.
Working knowledge of material handling equipment and distribution systems.
Proven ability to collaborate and communicate effectively with internal stakeholders, suppliers, and cross-functional teams.
Strong interpersonal, organizational, teamwork, and verbal and written communication skills.
Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification and/or practical continuous improvement experience preferred.
Experience in packaging engineering within a heavy industrial manufacturing environment, including collaboration with domestic and international teams.
Active membership in professional organizations such as the Institute for Supply Management (ISM), APICS/ASCM, or other relevant packaging, supply chain, or procurement associations preferred.
Knowledge of quality systems, Lean manufacturing methodologies, and continuous improvement principles.
Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and deliver results with minimal supervision.

Responsibilities

Establish packaging and processing specifications at the part number level for new product/sourcing introductions, cost savings, or other supply chain improvement.
Communicate with existing facilities on packaging issues related to receiving, warehousing, and/or line-side delivery.
Perform cost analysis on current packaging processes and recommend changes where appropriate.
Lead Green Belt projects.
Perform activities to ensure parts are protected, shipped, and delivered to the customer in a usable fashion, including: Develop packaging solutions to protect finished painted components.
Design for transport efficiency.
Perform containerization analysis, testing, and quoting.
Validate new package and containers during pilot phase.
Coordinate with operations for storage and ergonomic consideration.
Develop kitting packaging.
Validate returnable quantities through simulations.
Resolve safety and/or quality issues caused by current packaging.
Resolve issues reported by customers and process partners.
Develop, communicate and maintain supplier packaging requirements
Aduit conformance to packaging specification.
Joint process improvement with packaging vendors and purchasing.
Create packaging concepts using 3D modeling software (i.e., Pro-E).
Create business cases: Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) analyses.
Other duties as assigned by Caterpillar management from time-to-time.