Packaging Engineering Manager | Food Manufacturing

My client is seeking a Packaging Engineering Manager to lead a team in designing, developing, and optimizing innovative packaging solutions. You'll manage projects from concept through commercialization, collaborate with cross-functional teams, source materials and suppliers, ensure compliance, and champion continuous improvement and sustainability initiatives. Join a thriving, family-owned business and apply today! Client Details

My client is a well-known, family-owned manufacturer of food products with a thriving location in the western suburbs of Chicagoland. Due to exciting growth potential, they are hiring a Packaging Engineering Manager to lead their continued growth, while keeping a focus on quality, sustainability, and cost effectiveness. Join today!

Description

• Lead and mentor a packaging engineer, fostering collaboration and professional growth.
• Develop strategic plans and execute innovative packaging solutions that meet product and business requirements.
• Conduct tests and line trials to validate packaging performance under various conditions (temperature, transportation, storage).
• Oversee design and development of primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging for new and existing products.
• Analyze packaging performance and identify improvement opportunities.
• Select appropriate materials based on durability, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability.
• Collaborate with project management, engineering, marketing, regulatory, and operations teams to meet packaging needs.
• Ensure packaging integrity throughout production, transportation, and end-user experience.
• Partner with purchasing and production teams to assess cost and feasibility of proposed packaging.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with packaging suppliers to leverage expertise and stay ahead of industry trends.

Profile

• Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Packaging Science, or related field.
• 6-10+ years of experience in packaging engineering.
• Experience in food or consumer goods industry preferred.
• CAPE certification is a plus.
• Strong knowledge of materials science (plastics, films, PET, corrugated, paper).
• Familiarity with packaging software (TOPS or similar) and CAD tools.
• Proven leadership skills with ability to guide and motivate a team.
• Experience managing vendor relationships.
• Strong collaboration, problem-solving, and analytical skills.
• Project management expertise with ability to manage timelines and resources.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.

Job Offer

• Base salary ranging from $115,000 to $135,000 annually, depending on experience level.
• Annual bonus incentive - 12.5% target.
• 401k program with 4.5% employer match.
• 12 days PTO, 1 week sick time + company holidays.
• Engaging and supportive company culture.

MPI does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, or based on an individual's status in any group or class protected by applicable federal, state or local law. MPI encourages applications from minorities, women, the disabled, protected veterans and all other qualified applicants.