Job Summary:We are seeking a results-driven, innovative, and solutions-oriented Packaging & Automation Engineer to join our team. This role is responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing packaging solutions that minimize waste, reduce costs, improve productivity, and ensure product quality throughout transportation and storage, while selecting appropriate materials, equipment, and systems in alignment with customer and regulatory requirements. This position plays a key role in supporting new customer opportunities, including the specification and implementation of automated packaging systems to enable scalable, competitive manufacturing. The engineer will support new product launches, line trials, and continuous improvement initiatives, ensuring safe, reliable, and efficient operations across all packaging lines. The ideal candidate brings a hands-on approach to automation, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to collaborate cross-functionally with Operations, Maintenance, Quality, Commercial, Procurement, and external partners to drive performance, innovation, and turnkey packaging solutions.
Essential Functions, Key objectives, and Responsibilities:- Analyze product specifications, engineering drawings, and customer requirements to develop packaging solutions that ensure product protection, regulatory compliance, and efficient manufacturability
- Design, develop, and optimize packaging systems (primary, secondary, and tertiary) with a focus on scalability, line performance, and operational efficiency.
- Partner in the selection, design, installation, and startup of packaging equipment and automation systems (e.g., fillers, cappers, labelers, cartoners, case packers), ensuring alignment with production needs and future growth.
- Utilize CAD and technical tools to develop layouts, packaging concepts, and line improvements that enhance efficiency, ergonomics, and throughput.
- Troubleshoot packaging and automation issues across materials, equipment, and processes, implementing effective solutions to improve reliability and uptime.
- Identify and execute cost reduction opportunities across materials, labor, transportation, and storage while maintaining product quality and customer expectations.
- Support new product launches and commercialization efforts, including line trials, validation, and fit-for-use assessments to ensure scalable, efficient production.
- Develop, standardize, and improve packaging processes, including fill weight verification, inspection methods, and operational standards.
- Evaluate packaging designs and production processes, driving continuous improvement initiatives using Lean principles to improve OEE, reduce waste, and increase throughput.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with Operations, Maintenance, Quality, R&D, Commercial, Procurement, and external partners to deliver compliant, cost-effective, and scalable solutions.
- Review production samples and provide technical feedback to internal teams, customers, and suppliers to drive design and process improvements.
- Develop and maintain packaging specifications (raw materials and finished goods), ensuring accuracy, consistency, and compliance.
- Define and implement testing methods, validation protocols, and performance criteria to ensure packaging integrity and line efficiency.
Required Knowledge, Skills, And Competencies:Ideal Candidate Qualifications
:- Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to communicate effectively with customers.
- Proven ability to work across teams including internal partners, and external suppliers.
- Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills, with a results-driven mindset and high level of accountability.
- Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and prioritize effectively.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and CAD software.
- Solid understanding of mechanical systems, pneumatics, sensors, and packaging equipment, with exposure to automation technologies such as vision systems and automated inspection (preferred).
- Working knowledge of OEE, Lean Manufacturing, and continuous improvement methodologies.
- Strong creative and technical aptitude for developing innovative, cost-effective packaging solutions.
Education/Experience:- Bachelor's degree in Packaging, Mechanical, Electrical, or Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
- 5+ years of experience in packaging design, development, and/or manufacturing engineering in a production environment.
- Experience supporting equipment integration, line layouts, and capital projects from concept through installation (FAT/SAT/startup preferred).
- Understanding of sustainability and environmental considerations in packaging materials and processes.
- Hands-on experience with packaging and processing equipment (e.g., fillers, cappers, labelers, cartoners, case packers) and overall manufacturing systems.
- Experience managing RFPs, briefs, and Statements of Work.
- Experience with automation and controls systems, including PLCs (Allen-Bradley preferred), HMIs, sensors, and basic electrical/mechanical troubleshooting.
