Packaging Scientist (Multiple Levels)

Hormel Foods • Austin, MN

2d • Onsite

About The Position

Hormel Foods Corporation is hiring at the Associate Packaging Scientist, Packaging Scientist, or Senior Packaging Scientist level, with the level determined by the candidate’s skills and experience. This role organizes, plans, directs, and conducts research into packaging technologies to develop improved and innovative packaging applications that support company goals. It also provides technical advice and assistance to professional and non-professional personnel.

The position researches and evaluates packaging technologies, develops packaging systems, investigates cost-saving opportunities, troubleshoots packaging problems, and improves packaging efficiencies. It works with teams across the company and with vendors and suppliers to apply and integrate packaging technology, and coordinates project work with Research Technicians.

The role is based in Austin, Minnesota, or at Hormel Foods’ R&D office in Northbrook, Illinois. The base hiring pay range is $64,400–$137,300 per year; actual pay depends on factors including job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and geographic market location.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Engineering or a related field.
• Project management skills and the ability to lead and run projects smoothly.
• Demonstrated self-motivation, initiative, and creativity.
• Ability to work independently and in a team setting.
• Understanding of basic scientific principles.
• Strong analytical, time management, and record-keeping skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and team-building skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present technical concepts effectively to a nontechnical audience.
• Must be a U.S. citizen or national, a lawful permanent resident, or otherwise authorized to work in the United States.
• Must not now or in the future require sponsorship for an employment visa.

Nice To Haves

• Packaging equipment and/or processing experience.
• Knowledge of package sustainability, including Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR).

Responsibilities

• Identify, facilitate, devise, and conduct packaging research leading to the development and implementation of new packaging systems.
• Maintain competency in emerging packaging technologies and broad packaging theory, and research their feasibility for use with company products.
• Investigate, recommend, and implement packaging cost-saving programs by evaluating material enhancements and design considerations.
• Provide technical service and troubleshooting for packaging problems at company facilities that exceed the scope of plant or corporate personnel.
• Serve as a resource and advisor to other Packaging Scientists and company personnel.
• Develop and plan systems to improve packaging efficiencies across the corporation.
• Enter and manage packaging specifications for company products and, where applicable, develop software and catalogue systems for packaging data.
• Work directly with Engineering, Operations, Marketing, Purchasing, and other company functions to apply packaging technology.
• Oversee development and integration of packaging technologies with vendors and suppliers.
• Coordinate and plan project work with Research Technicians on a daily basis.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical coverage.
• Dental coverage.
• Vision coverage.
• Discretionary annual merit increases.
• Bonuses and profit sharing.
• 401(k) with employer match.
• Stock purchase plan.
• Paid time off.
• Free two-year community or technical college tuition for employees’ children.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level