Packaging Engineer

About the role

The Packaging Engineer will take ownership of the packaging engineering function at IFAB Corp., driving innovative and practical packaging solutions from concept through production. The role involves leading the packaging development process, solving technical problems, and working cross-functionally with various departments.

Responsibilities

• Lead Packaging Development
• Own the complete packaging lifecycle from concept through implementation
• Design packaging solutions for stamped, laser-cut, formed, welded, coated, and fabricated metal components
• Define the best packaging strategy based on product characteristics, manufacturing flow, transportation requirements, customer expectations, and cost
• Develop prototypes, build packaging samples, and validate solutions before production release
• Identify opportunities to improve packaging performance, reduce costs, and eliminate waste
• Drive Technical Solutions
• Analyze packaging challenges and develop practical, cost-effective solutions
• Perform packaging validation including drop, vibration, compression, stack, and transportation testing
• Modify packaging designs based on testing results, production feedback, or customer requirements
• Support Engineering Change Requests (ECRs) affecting packaging
• Lead Cross-Functional Projects
• Partner with Engineering, Production, Quality, Purchasing, Tooling, and Suppliers throughout program launches
• Coordinate packaging activities for new product launches and engineering changes
• Communicate project status, risks, and timelines effectively
• Manage multiple projects while maintaining ownership of deliverables
• Packaging Procurement & Inventory
• Define packaging specifications and source packaging materials
• Establish MOQ, MPQ, reorder points, and inventory strategies
• Maintain packaging inventory to ensure uninterrupted production
• Collaborate with suppliers to improve quality, cost, and lead times
• Documentation & Standards
• Create and maintain packaging drawings using CAD
• Develop and update Work Instructions (WIs), SOPs, BOMs, packaging specifications, and revision histories
• Ensure packaging documentation remains current and compliant with company quality standards
• Train production personnel on new packaging methods and procedures when required

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
• Experience designing packaging solutions in a manufacturing environment
• Strong CAD skills (SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or similar)
• Knowledge of packaging materials including corrugated, foam, dunnage, returnable containers, steel racks, and custom packaging
• Experience managing multiple engineering projects simultaneously
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills
• Excellent communication and organizational skills
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision

Qualifications

• Required Qualifications
• Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
• Experience designing packaging solutions in a manufacturing environment
• Strong CAD skills (SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or similar)
• Knowledge of packaging materials including corrugated, foam, dunnage, returnable containers, steel racks, and custom packaging
• Experience managing multiple engineering projects simultaneously
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills
• Excellent communication and organizational skills
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Preferred Qualifications
• Experience in metal fabrication or automotive manufacturing
• Knowledge of ISTA, ASTM, or AIAG packaging standards
• Experience with returnable packaging systems
• Experience supporting APQP and PPAP launches
• Experience working directly with customers and suppliers
• Bilingual English/Spanish is a plus

What Makes Someone Successful in This Role

We're looking for someone who: - Takes ownership instead of waiting for direction - Can identify packaging issues and develop effective solutions - Is comfortable making engineering decisions - Thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment - Can balance technical detail with project execution - Builds strong relationships across departments - Thinks proactively and continuously looks for improvements

Physical Requirements

• Regular presence on the manufacturing floor
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs when building or evaluating packaging prototypes
• Comfortable working around manufacturing equipment and varying environmental conditions
• Ability to manage changing priorities while meeting deadlines