Primary Packaging Design Specialist

Ferrero•Chicago, IL

1d•Onsite

About The Position

We have a current opening for a Primary Packaging Design Specialist and are actively reviewing applications. As a Primary Packaging Design Specialist, you’ll lead the design and development of food-contact primary packaging materials, support analytical laboratory testing and conduct hands-on validation trials within manufacturing facilities across Ferrero’s North American portfolio — including iconic brands like Nutella, Ferrero Rocher, Butterfinger, Baby Ruth, and Keebler Cookies. Reporting to the North American Primary Packaging Design Manager, this role integrates technical expertise, regulatory compliance, and consumer safety. This role partners closely with internal and external stakeholders across Ferrero’s global network to assess risks, ensure regulatory alignment, and support sustainable packaging solutions. The ideal candidate demonstrates strong attention to detail and the ability to communicate effectively with internal teams and external partners, including suppliers, laboratories, and regulatory and legal bodies.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Packaging, Materials Science, Chemistry, Engineering, or a related field.
3-5 years of experience in packaging development, preferably within the food industry.
Solid understanding of structural packaging design, materials, and manufacturing processes.
Working knowledge of food‑contact packaging regulations and testing methodologies (e.g., FDA, EFSA); familiarity with EU or international standards is a plus.
Excellent project management, problem-solving, and communication skills; capable of influencing cross-functional teams without direct authority.
Collaborative, adaptable, and detail‑oriented mindset, suited to a fast‑paced, global, matrixed organization.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.

Responsibilities

Support the end‑to‑end development of food‑contact primary packaging solutions from concept through validation, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and internal company policies related to food safety and sustainability.
Perform hands‑on laboratory testing of packaging materials, assess results, and communicate findings and risks clearly to technical and non‑technical audiences.
Organize, review, and maintain compliance documentation and technical data from new suppliers or packaging solutions, including Declarations of Compliance, certifications, migration test reports, technical datasheets and other specifications.
Communicate effectively with cross‑functional stakeholders regarding food safety risks, compliance to global regulations, and adherence to internal policies.
Coordinate with internal and external laboratories to support material and compliance testing, including sample management, timeline tracking, and results interpretation and reporting.
Travel to manufacturing facilities to support packaging trials, on‑site testing, and validation activities (up to 30% travel).
Collaborate globally with R&D, Quality, Operations, Procurement, and Central Primary Packaging and Laboratory teams to ensure technical alignment and consistent knowledge sharing.