JM Smucker Company

Senior Technologist, Packaging Research & Development, Pet

JM Smucker Company • $75K — $95K *
Food & Beverages
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor of Science in Packaging Science/Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Material Science, or related field.
  • 2+ years of experience in packaging development or engineering.
  • Knowledge of packaging materials and technologies.
  • Understanding of package attributes and qualification test procedures.
  • Experience in multi-functional collaboration within project environments.
  • Experience in conducting plant and lab trials.
  • Ability to lift up to 30 lbs.

Responsibilities

  • Collaborate with various departments to develop packaging concepts from initial design.
  • Design innovative packaging solutions with a focus on consumer needs and business goals.
  • Lead testing and validation of packaging performance across multiple criteria.
  • Execute qualifications and trials with suppliers and in production facilities.
  • Plan and conduct plant trials, analyzing results in partnership with technical teams.
  • Craft performance specifications and manage within the database system.
  • Advise on supplier selection for successful product launches.
  • Propose innovative packaging technologies and sustainability solutions.

Benefits

  • 100% onsite work arrangement, Monday to Friday.
  • Opportunity to work with iconic pet brands.
  • Hands-on role in packaging innovation and sustainability initiatives.
  • Cross-functional collaboration with industry professionals.
Full Job Description

Your Opportunity as the Senior Technologist, Packaging Research & Development, Pet

 Shape the future of pet food packaging at Smucker! In this hands-on innovation role, you'll develop and launch new packaging solutions that protect product quality, enhance sustainability, and deliver a better consumer experience. Working cross-functionally with suppliers and manufacturing teams, you'll lead package development from concept and testing through commercialization while driving continuous improvement and sustainable packaging initiatives. If you're passionate about packaging technology, problem-solving, and bringing new ideas to life, this is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on iconic pet brands. 🐾

Location: Orrville, OH

Work Arrangements: 100% onsite, M-F

In this role you will:

  • Collaborate boldly with Product R&D, Creative Services, Brand Management, Purchasing, and Suppliers to bring new packaging concepts to life—starting from the earliest design stages.

  • Design and develop innovative packaging solutions using materials like film/laminate, thermoforming, injection molding, paperboard, and corrugated formats—driven by consumer needs and business goals.

  • Lead testing and validation of packaging performance across production, distribution, shelf life, sustainability, and consumer usability—with growing independence.

  • Execute qualifications and trials with suppliers and production facilities, ensuring seamless integration into our manufacturing processes.

  • Drive plant trials with precision—planning, executing, analyzing, and summarizing results in partnership with manufacturing and technical teams.

  • Craft performance-based specifications and manage them within our electronic database system.

  • Advise and recommend top-tier suppliers and service providers to support successful product launches.

  • Champion innovation by proposing new packaging technologies, sustainability solutions, cost-saving ideas, and creative problem-solving approaches.

  • Support technical troubleshooting across the packaging supply chain and production environments.

  • Learn to assess legal and environmental aspects, and patent opportunities for new packaging

  • Build strong relationships with strategic packaging suppliers to stay ahead of trends and capabilities.

What we are looking for:

Minimum Requirements:

  • Bachelor of Science degree in Packaging Science/Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Material Science or related technical degree

  • 2+ years of experience in packaging development or packaging engineering

  • Knowledge ofpackaging materials, technologies, andapplications

  • Understanding ofbasic package attributes andqualification test procedures

  • Experience collaborating acrossmulti-functionaland discipline boundaries in a dynamic project environment

  • Experience conducting plant and lab trials

  • Ability to lift up to 30 lbs.

  • Willingness to travel up to 30% based on project needs and launch schedules

Additional skills and experiences that we think would make someone successful in this role:

  • Experience in the food or beverage industry

  • Familiaritywith packing line machinery and equipment (ex: flexible pouch, bagging, rigidcontainerfillingand sealing, case packing etc.)

#LI-KK1

#INDSA

About JM Smucker Company

J.M. Smucker Company manufactures and supplies spreads, warm beverages, sweeteners, condiments, decorating syrups, and milk products.

JM Smucker Company Careers

There has never been a more exciting time to explore the job opportunities at JM Smucker Company, a leader in the food industry known for its strong values and commitment to quality. As we continue to grow, we invite you to join our team of professionals, where innovation and leadership thrive. Work You’ll Do Join JM Smucker Company’s dynamic team to help drive growth and innovation in one of the most respected companies in the food sector. At JM Smucker, we are dedicated to transforming our business while upholding our unique culture of integrity and responsibility. Lead in a Unique Market Position At JM Smucker Company, you will find yourself at the crossroads of consumer needs and cutting-edge solutions. With a focus on diversity and professional development, we empower our employees to lead and innovate within the industry. Engage with a Skilled Team of Professionals Collaborate with over 7,000 dedicated employees who bring their skills and passion to our teams every day. At JM Smucker, we believe in nurturing talent through comprehensive training and development programs, ensuring that every team member can achieve their career goals. Introducing the JM Smucker Leadership and Innovation Initiative We are committed to fostering leadership and innovation across all levels of our company. This initiative is designed to support our employees in mastering their professional journey through continuous learning and leadership opportunities. Do Innovative Work Be part of a company that is as committed to innovation as it is to producing high-quality products. At JM Smucker Company, you will work on projects that challenge the status quo and push the boundaries of what is possible in the food industry. Be Part of a Great Team Experience a culture that values teamwork, leadership, and diversity. Our teams are made up of individuals from various backgrounds, working together to achieve common goals and drive success in the industry. Future-Proof Your Career With JM Smucker Company, your career is in good hands. We offer a variety of job opportunities, from internships to full-time positions, each accompanied by competitive benefits and the chance for growth. Whether you are just starting out or looking to advance your career, JM Smucker provides the resources and support to help you succeed. Explore Discover how our commitment to innovation leads to superior products and services: [Explore Our Innovations] Read more about how our teams are pioneering new techniques and flavors in the food industry. The JM Smucker Company Difference Our commitment to quality, innovation, and diversity sets us apart in the food industry. We believe that our employees are our greatest asset, and we are dedicated to their growth and development. Stay Connected Join Our Team Search open positions that match your skills and interests. We are always looking for passionate, creative, and driven individuals to join our team. [SEARCH JM SMUCKER JOBS] Keep Up to Date Stay informed with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights—all from the people who work here. [READ CAREERS BLOG] Job Alert Emails Customize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding career opportunities that await at JM Smucker Company. [SUBSCRIBE FOR JOB ALERTS]
Learn more about JM Smucker Company
Size
14,000 employees
Market Cap
$16.9 billion
Industry
Net Income
$955.6 million
Founded
1897
5 Year Trend
+1.6%
Revenue
$8.1 billion

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