Principal Packaging Engineer

CONAGRA•Chicago, IL

3d•$109,000 - $159,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Reporting to the Senior Director, Packaging, you will lead the identification, development, and commercialization of new, improved, and cost‑reduced packaging solutions that meet business objectives, advance stewardship priorities, and comply with regulatory requirements. You will serve as the primary technical project leader for multiple business platforms and packaging stewardship initiatives while providing cross‑functional leadership on both large strategic initiatives and major base business projects. You will also act as a technical mentor and key resource for packaging engineering platforms.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Packaging, Engineering, or a related field with a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in the packaging industry, preferably within consumer packaged goods, or a Master’s or Doctorate degree in Packaging or a related field with a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience.
Experience with government regulatory requirements related to Extended Producer Responsibility and food processing.
Excellent understanding of packaging materials, equipment capabilities, and advanced testing methodologies.
Strong knowledge of food science and the impact of packaging on food quality.
Thorough understanding of end‑of‑life design requirements for recyclable packaging.
Strong knowledge of food safety principles, sanitary design, and equipment cleaning.
In‑depth knowledge of physical and structural package testing procedures.
Understanding of the current packaging regulatory landscape, including Extended Producer Responsibility laws.
Proven skill analyzing all aspects of new packaging systems.
Advanced written and verbal communication skills.
Strong collaboration skills with the capacity to maintain effective cross‑functional partnerships.
Effective negotiation skills for conflict resolution.
Experience supporting intellectual property development and exclusivity patents.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools.

Responsibilities

Champion ideas for technology improvements, compliance requirements, sustainability enhancements, cost savings, and innovation aligned with strategic business priorities.
Serve as a recognized subject matter expert and technical leader in packaging engineering.
Drive execution of complex, cross‑functional projects to deliver against platform and enterprise‑level objectives.
Maintain a strong awareness of technical trends, regulatory changes, compliance requirements, and advancements within the packaging industry.
Define and align technical objectives for assigned businesses and projects.
Lead multiple complex projects simultaneously while managing priorities effectively.
Collaborate closely with internal business partners and cross‑functional teams at a senior level.
Build and maintain strong relationships with external partners, suppliers, and technical resources.
Represent the company with professionalism and contribute positively to its reputation within the technical and packaging community.
Apply strong expertise in experimental design, performance specifications, and commissioning, qualification, and validation design.
Mentor and develop packaging engineers across platforms.