Senior Engineer, Package Engineering - Nature's Bakery

SUMMARY

As the Senior Engineer, Package Engineering, this role will be responsible for leading the development and launch of innovations, renovations, productivity and quality improvements for products and packages in the portfolio.  This role involves ensuring that packaging meets the requirements for product protection, sustainability, cost efficiency, and compliance with industry standards and regulations. The Senior Engineer, Package Engineering works closely with cross-functional teams including product development, marketing, and supply chain to deliver innovative and effective packaging solutions

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Organizational Leadership:
  • Provide technical expertise and knowledge to the organization.
  • Provide improvements to department and enterprise-wide processes and ways of working.
  • Develop and manage supplier relationships and stay abreast of industry trends and technology developments to leverage outside ideas and technical solutions.
  • Network with the global R&D community to share and utilize best practices.
• Packaging Design and Development:
  • Design and develop packaging solutions for new and existing products.
  • Create prototypes and conduct testing to ensure packaging meets product requirements and industry standards.
  • Utilize CAD software to create detailed packaging designs and specifications.
• Material Selection and Sourcing:
  • Research and recommend appropriate packaging materials based on product needs, cost, and sustainability goals.
  • Work with suppliers to source materials and negotiate costs.
• Testing and Validation:
  • Execute well thought-out trial plans, collect data, and interpret results to drive program/project and technical knowledge forward, develop robust action plans, risk assessment, and contingency planning.
  • Conduct packaging performance tests such as drop tests, vibration tests, and environmental exposure tests.
  • Analyze test data and make necessary adjustments to packaging designs.
  • Ensure packaging complies with regulatory requirements and industry standards.
• Sustainability and Innovation:
  • Develop sustainable packaging solutions that reduce environmental impact.
  • Stay current with industry trends and innovations in packaging materials and technologies.
  • Implement new packaging technologies and methods to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
• Collaboration and Communication:
  • Work closely with product development, marketing, and supply chain teams to ensure packaging meets functional, aesthetic, and logistical requirements.
  • Provide technical support and guidance to internal teams and external suppliers.
  • Communicate packaging specifications and requirements clearly to all stakeholders.
• Cost Management:
  • Analyze packaging costs and identify opportunities for cost savings without compromising quality.
  • Develop cost-effective packaging solutions that meet budget constraints.
• Process Improvement:
  • Continuously evaluate and improve packaging processes and workflows.
  • Implement best practices and standardize packaging procedures across the organization.
• Documentation and Compliance:
  • Maintain accurate records of packaging designs, specifications, and test results.
  • Ensure all packaging solutions comply with relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS/QUALIFICATIONS

• At least 6 years of relevant concept to launch experience.
• At least 6 years of relevant experience in package engineering, development and manufacturing qualification, start-up & new product projects.
• Bachelor's degree in Packaging, Mechanical Engineering, or a relevant degree. Business Management, Human Resources, or related field required.
• Strong foundational knowledge in packaging materials, processes, and equipment
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Familiarity with the activities in Marketing, Market Research, Legal/Regulatory, QA and Manufacturing.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office; MS Project a plus.
• The ability to travel up to 25-30%.
• Preferred but not required:
  • Previous Food packaging experience.
  • Previous Innovation/Renovation experience.
  • Previous experience in onboarding a new specification management system.

A reasonable estimate of the current base salary range for this position is $100,000 to $130,000. Actual salary will be based on a variety of factors, including location, experience, skill set, performance, licensure and certification, and business needs. The range for this position in other geographic locations may differ.

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