Packaging Engineer

About the role

Carex is partnering with a Biotechnology industry partner to hire a Packaging Engineer who will lead the development, design, and implementation of packaging solutions for new and existing products. This role serves as a technical resource across packaging design, materials, testing, quality, and manufacturing while managing projects from concept through implementation. The Packaging Engineer will collaborate cross-functionally to improve packaging performance, support regulatory compliance, advance sustainability initiatives, and identify opportunities for cost and process improvements. Must be onsite in the Madison, WI area.

Responsibilities

• Lead packaging design and development projects from concept through implementation, incorporating appropriate technologies, materials, and manufacturing considerations.
• Partner with R&D, Marketing, Operations, Quality, and other cross-functional stakeholders to develop effective packaging solutions for new and existing products.
• Develop, maintain, and improve packaging material and component specifications.
• Evaluate packaging materials and systems, including molded plastic containers, closure systems, laminate films, corrugated packaging, and insulated shipping solutions.
• Plan and execute packaging performance evaluations and distribution challenge testing using applicable ISTA and ASTM standards.
• Support packaging design control activities and ensure solutions meet applicable quality, regulatory, and business requirements.
• Troubleshoot complex packaging and manufacturing issues using root cause analysis, process capability studies, statistical methods, and other engineering tools.
• Identify and implement continuous improvement opportunities that enhance packaging performance, efficiency, quality, and manufacturability.
• Champion sustainable packaging initiatives and identify cost-reduction opportunities without compromising product quality or performance.
• Support automated packaging equipment and processes, including evaluation and implementation of improvements.
• Build productive relationships with suppliers and vendors, monitor supplier performance, and participate in vendor audits and technical evaluations.
• Stay current on emerging packaging technologies, materials, processes, and industry trends and evaluate opportunities for implementation.
• Contribute to the development and review of engineering standards and best practices.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior team members.
• Organize and communicate technical findings, recommendations, and project updates to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Travel occasionally to vendor locations, trade shows, and other sites as needed.
• Work safely across laboratory, manufacturing, and office environments while following applicable ethical, legal, quality, and regulatory requirements.

Requirements

• W2 only, no C2C; must be authorized to work in the US (both now and in the future).
• Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering.
• 4–8 years of packaging engineering experience within a manufacturing environment, ideally supporting biotech, pharmaceutical, diagnostics, OTC, food, beverage, or another regulated industry.
• Ability to work in laboratory, manufacturing, and office environments and adapt to changing project requirements.
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, gloves, and hearing protection.
• Ability to travel occasionally as business needs require.

Qualifications

• Experience with molded plastic containers and closure systems is preferred.
• Experience working within ISO 9000, FDA cGMP, USDA, or comparable regulated environments is preferred.
• Six Sigma knowledge and experience applying continuous improvement methods and tools