Project Packaging Engineer

Key Responsibilities

• Lead assigned packaging projects from scope definition through Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), site installation, commissioning, and final Site Acceptance Testing (SAT).
• Direct the project budget and capital approval (DA) processes. Issue purchase orders, track actual vs. budgeted variances, report on cash spend/forecasts, and control scope changes via formal change orders.
• Carefully coordinate on-site vendor activities, logistics, equipment shipping, and progressive payment milestones in tight alignment with plant operations.
• Synchronize project steps across supporting departments, managing packaging design, product recipes, vendor sampling, water/CIP testing, system ramp-up, and punch-list resolution.
• Translate long-term business and capacity needs into technical requirements (sizing, machine flexibility, and component counts). Ensure packaging system designs capture industry best practices and align with the site master plan.
• Actively engage, communicate with, and mobilize plant teams at every phase of the project lifecycle, ensuring a customer-service-oriented approach for production and maintenance departments.
• Author comprehensive supplier selection bid packages, solicit requests for quotation (RFQs), and perform rigorous technical and professional evaluations of bidding vendors.
• Organize and execute all necessary packaging trials and technical tests to guarantee project success alongside suppliers, R&D, and production teams.
• Research, develop, and implement solutions for operational efficiency issues on the packaging floor. Analyze existing machinery to identify optimization opportunities via component and system studies.
• Provide advanced technical troubleshooting and floor support to the maintenance department, elevating the technical depth and skill sets of the plant maintenance technicians.
• Ensure strict compliance with critical technical milestones, including provisional acceptance, PLC programming validation, electrical/water tests, commissioning, and final sign-off.
• Maintain meticulous, up-to-date documentation, blueprints, and records for all executed packaging projects.

Requirements

• A bachelor's degree is required. Majors in mechanical engineering or a similar discipline are favored.
• Experience: 5+ years of experience within a manufacturing engineering environment is required.
• Software: Proficiency with AutoCAD / AutoCAD LT.
• Technical Expertise: Strong foundation in process engineering principles, fluid dynamics, and automated manufacturing systems.
• Project Management: Proven ability to manage complex timelines, prioritize competing deliverables, and execute budgets.
• Communication: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to deliver technical presentations and write clear operational procedures.
• Adaptability: Resilient and proactive mindset with the ability to lead effectively within a fast-paced, evolving production environment.