Packaging Lab Lead

Kenvue•Summit, NJ

5d•Onsite

About The Position

Kenvue is seeking a Packaging Lab Lead to guide packaging lab analysts and support agile, consumer-focused testing, simplicity, and continuous improvement. The role promotes scientifically rigorous lab practices through risk assessments, hands-on test execution, investigations, and analyst training and development. The lead collaborates with partners across Kenvue to enhance consumer value and packaging performance. Based fully onsite in Summit, New Jersey, the role reports to the Associate Director, Global Packaging Labs. It coordinates weekly testing, monitors laboratory performance, supports robust test plans, conducts packaging evaluations and design verification, and helps develop packaging solutions and new products. The lead also oversees lab equipment calibration and maintenance, supports investigations and root-cause analysis, maintains test records, and develops technical documentation and training materials. Kenvue describes its workplace as a global team of approximately 22,000 people focused on science, care, innovation, and collaboration. The annual base salary range for new hires is $72,675–$102,600, with the specific offer depending on factors including location, skills, experience, and education. The listed rewards include paid company holidays, paid vacation, volunteer time, learning and development opportunities, and Kenvuer Impact Networks. Total rewards may also include a bonus, if applicable, and other benefits; offerings may vary by location or region.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
At least 4 years of experience in packaging testing or a related role.
Experience leading and supervising a team.
Experience in product testing and design verification.
Experience managing the function of a laboratory in a GxP environment.
Experience owning tasks and driving them to completion in partnership with team members.

Nice To Haves

Proactive approach to leading continuous improvement.
Proficiency using laboratory equipment and software.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Excellent communication and collaboration abilities.
Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Familiarity with industry standards and regulations for packaging materials and products.
Ability to conduct basic scientific research on new products and technology concepts.

Responsibilities

Coordinate weekly test planning with the lab team.
Monitor laboratory KPIs, maintain zero test backlog, and identify improvement areas with the lab team.
Support creation of robust test plans with the lab team and packaging engineering, capturing risks and applying technical rigor while reducing complexity for packaging materials and products in accordance with industry standards and regulations.
Evaluate packaging performance under conditions such as temperature, humidity, and pressure.
Analyze and interpret test results, identify potential issues, and recommend improvements.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop and implement packaging solutions that meet customer needs and specifications.
Keep up to date with packaging technology trends and advancements to improve testing methods and processes.
Maintain accurate records of testing procedures and results.
Assist in developing new products and technologies.
Conduct hands-on testing for design verification and test method development.
Draft technical reports, work instructions, and method and process validations.
Lead and support lab-team defect investigations and root-cause analysis.
Manage and schedule equipment calibrations and maintenance.
Draft onboarding training materials for lab analysts.
Train and coach lab analysts.
Test prototypes, tools, and fixtures after fabrication to ensure they meet specifications.
Collaborate with manufacturing and production engineering groups to provide engineering and design services.
Ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.