Packaging Testing Lab Technician

SPECIALIZED PACKAGING SOLUTIONS INC•Newark, CA

17d•Onsite

About The Position

The Packaging Testing Lab Engineer is responsible for planning, performing, and analyzing packaging performance tests to ensure product protection, regulatory compliance, and supply-chain readiness. This role supports new product development, quality investigations, packaging validation, and continuous improvement initiatives within the packaging laboratory.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or related field.
2–3 years of experience in packaging testing, quality engineering, laboratory operations, or related fields (internship experience accepted).
Hands-on experience executing packaging testing protocols such as ISTA series (e.g., ISTA 1A/2A/3A/6A), ASTM standards (e.g., ASTM D4169, D642, D5276, D999), and other relevant industry methods.
Experience operating packaging test equipment (drop, vibration, compression, climate chambers).
Knowledge of packaging materials (corrugated, flexible films, rigid plastics, foams, pallets).
Proficiency with testing equipment and laboratory instrumentation.
Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and performance requirements.
Ability to read drawings, specifications, and test procedures.
Strong attention to detail and problem-solving ability.
Proficiency with MS Excel, Word, and data entry systems.
Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
Ability to manage projects, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines.
Self-motivated, organized, and safety conscious.

Nice To Haves

ISTA certification preferred.

Responsibilities

Conduct standardized tests including but not limited to: Drop testing (Free Fall) Vibration testing Compression testing Burst/ECT testing Climate chamber conditioning
Conduct standardized packaging performance tests (e.g., ISTA, ASTM, ISO, TAPPI) including transit simulation, environmental conditioning, seal strength, burst/leak, and material characterization.
Operate and maintain laboratory equipment such as drop testers, vibration tables, compression testers, climate chambers, and data acquisition systems.
Develop test protocols aligned with customer requirements, industry standards, and internal specifications.
Detailed test reports generation based on test protocols
Analyze test data, prepare detailed reports, and communicate results to engineering, quality, and operations teams.
Ensure safe laboratory practices and adherence to EHS standards.
Ensure all testing follows applicable regulatory, industry, and customer standards.
Support packaging validations for new product launches, packaging changes, and supplier qualifications.
Participate in root-cause analysis for packaging failures looking to improve packaging systems
Maintain documentation, test records, and equipment calibration schedules in accordance with QA and audit requirements.
Collaborate with packaging engineers, R&D, manufacturing, and supply-chain teams to optimize packaging design for performance, cost, and sustainability.
Assist in material selection, packaging design reviews, and prototype evaluations.
Provide technical support to resolve packaging issues occurring in production or distribution.