Packaging Engineering Manager

ARTHUR SCHUMAN MASTER•Elgin, IL

76d•$115,000 - $135,000•Onsite

About The Position

Primary Purpose: The Packaging Engineering Manager will lead a team to design, develop, and optimize packaging solutions, balance product protection, user experience, cost, and sustainability. Key responsibilities for this position include managing packaging projects from concept to commercialization, collaborating with cross-functional teams, sourcing materials and suppliers, ensuring regulatory compliance, supporting sustainability initiatives and fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Engineering, Packaging Science or other related field
6-10+ years of experience in packaging engineering
Demonstrated experience of packaging development process (materials knowledge, performance testing, critical factors to consider in design, specification determination, etc.)
Strong knowledge of materials science, including plastics, film, PET, corrugated and paper
TOPS or other software solutions for packaging, palletization and loading of trucks/containers
Proficiency with CAD drawings and programs
Demonstrated leadership skills with the ability to motivate, guide, and develop a team.
Experience managing vendor relationships
Strong collaboration, problem solving and analytical skills, in addition to a innovate, creative thinker
Project management skills – able to move projects forward, manage timelines/deadlines, engage the right resources, etc.
Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

Nice To Haves

Food industry experience preferred
CAPES certification is a plus

Responsibilities

Manage and mentor a packaging engineer, providing guidance, performance feedback, and fostering a collaborative environment.
Develop strategic plans and execute innovative packaging solutions that meet product requirements, considering factors like cost, safety, and environmental impact.
Lead and conduct tests/line trials on packaging concepts to ensure packaging can withstand various conditions such as temperature changes, transportation, and storage.
Oversee the design and development of primary, secondary and tertiary packaging for new and existing products, considering factors like product integrity, sustainability, user experience, and brand alignment.
Conduct packaging performance tests and identify areas of improvements for packaging solutions.
Analyze and select appropriate materials for packaging based on durability, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability.
Work closely with project management, sustainability, innovation, engineering, marketing, regulatory and operation teams to understand and meet packaging needs.
Ensure integrity of packaging is maintained through production, transportation, storage, and end users.
Partner with purchasing and production departments to determine costs and feasibility of producing proposed packaging.
Develop and maintain strong relationships with key packaging suppliers to leverage their knowledge, capabilities, and stay updated on industry developments.