Packaging Project Manager

Packaging Expertise and Material Strategy

• Serve as the internal subject matter expert on packaging materials.
• Define and promote best practices for packaging material selection based on product protection, shelf life, manufacturability, cost, and sustainability.
• Evaluate new packaging technologies and recommend improvements aligned with business goals.
• Partner with procurement to identify, evaluate, and qualify new materials and suppliers.
• Lead packaging-related R&D and improvement projects from concept through commercialization.
• Develop and manage project timelines, milestones, and deliverables.
• Carefully coordinate cross-functional teams to ensure successful execution of projects.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Work closely with packaging equipment specialists and plant teams to execute line trials and testing activities.
• Design and oversee packaging trials including performance, shelf-life, and transportation testing.
• Analyze test results and translate findings into clear, actionable next steps.
• Ensure successful implementation of packaging changes into production.
• Identify opportunities to improve packaging performance, reduce cost, and enhance sustainability.
• Drive initiatives to optimize material usage, reduce waste, and improve efficiency.
• Support troubleshooting of packaging-related issues on the production floor.
• Partner with operations, engineering, quality, procurement, and suppliers to support packaging initiatives.
• Communicate project updates, risks, and results to leadership.
• Maintain accurate documentation for formulas, trials, specifications, test protocols, observations, and project progress.

Requirements

• Basic understanding of food labeling regulatory requirements.
• Strong knowledge of packaging materials, food packaging requirements, and testing methods.
• Familiarity with packaging equipment, line trials, and commercialization processes.
• Knowledge of sustainability trends and recyclable/alternative materials is a plus.
• PMP or other project management certification is preferred.

Skills and Competencies

• An analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data and drive decisions.
• Effective communication and ability to influence without direct authority.
• High degree of proficiency in MS Office Suite, Outlook & Internet applications.
• Strong documentation and follow-through.
• Strong analytical, prioritizing, interpersonal, problem-solving, presentation, budgeting, project management (from conception to completion), & planning skills.

Physical/Working Conditions

• Regular presence on the manufacturing floor.
• Ability to walk the facility, climb stairs, and stand for extended periods.
• May occasionally lift up to 25 pounds.
• Must be able to wear required PPE and work in production environments with noise, temperature variation, and moving equipment.
• May work flexible hours to support trials, testing, and project implementation.