Packaging Engineer

About the role

The role is a hybrid position (3 days onsite) within a fast-growing, industry-leading food manufacturer in Chicago. The Packaging Engineer will work on multi-million dollar, cross-functional packaging projects impacting multiple plants and business units.

Responsibilities

• Lead multi-million dollar, cross-functional packaging projects impacting multiple plants and business units.
• Drive planning, qualification, and execution of new primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging systems, from materials to equipment integration.
• Collaborate with engineering, R&D, marketing, and supply chain teams to optimize designs for cost savings, efficiency, changeover reduction, and sustainability.
• Translate findings and innovations into clear recommendations for senior leadership.
• Develop and maintain technical specifications for packaging materials used in high-speed manufacturing environments.
• Identify continuous improvement opportunities that enhance quality, reduce costs, and elevate customer satisfaction.

Requirements

• 3+ years of experience in packaging engineering—CPG/food industry experience is a strong plus.
• Proven project management skills, with a track record of packaging validation and qualification success.
• Hands-on knowledge of rigid plastics, flexible films, corrugated, paperboard, and labeling in various distribution environments.
• Working understanding of GMP standards and packaging material processing specifications.
• Strong collaboration skills—able to partner with marketing, sales, R&D, procurement, manufacturing, quality, and graphics teams.
• Experience with TOPS or CAPE shipper/palletization software, SAP, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Engineering, Packaging Science, or related discipline.

Qualifications

• Passionate about packaging innovation and driven to make a difference in the food industry.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Skills

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Knowledge of GMP standards and packaging material processing specifications.
• Experience with TOPS or CAPE shipper/palletization software.
• Understanding of rigid plastics, flexible films, corrugated, paperboard, and labeling in various distribution environments.

Benefits

Consultants are eligible to enroll in benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Other benefits include Family Medical Leave, Worker's Compensation, Paid Leave, and Sick Leave.

Pay

$50-55 per hour

Schedule

Hybrid (3 days onsite)