R&D Packaging Engineer I

SUMMARY

This role is responsible for leading the design and technical development of packaging solutions for both new and existing products. The incumbent collaborates with project teams and vendors to recommend, assess, and validate packaging design proposals. Key responsibilities include creating comprehensive specifications and maintaining accurate bills of materials. Additionally, this position provides support to production facilities by assisting with issue resolution and optimizing packaging designs. The individual is expected to manage a portfolio of low-to-medium complexity commercial projects that require a solid foundation in packaging principles.  

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following:

•  Lead the development of new packaging designs and enhancements to existing packaging, focusing on cost reduction, manufacturing performance improvements, and innovation across primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging.
•  Manage relationships with packaging suppliers to ensure effective project execution and recommend or qualify new suppliers as needed.
•  Define, maintain, and update packaging specifications and protocols to ensure material consistency.
•  Assist in, coordinate, and execute line trials at appropriate manufacturing facilities to validate quality attributes and performance metrics.
•  Offer technical expertise for small to mid-scale operational challenges related to packaging, collaborating directly with operations and suppliers to identify root causes of recurring issues.
•  Design, review, evaluate, and test various packaging proposals.
•  Serve as a vital contributor and maintain strong connections with Ken’s Foods Sales, Marketing, R&D, Engineering, Operations, and Supply Chain teams.
•  Identify and implement opportunities to standardize materials, thereby reducing complexity and enabling volume-leveraged pricing for packaging components.
•  Apply knowledge to new or ambiguous situations to resolve problems and advance projects.
•  Participate in relevant industry organizations and attend trade shows or conferences to enhance professional knowledge.
•  Maintain a strong commitment to safety; management and frontline supervisors are responsible for fostering a culture of safety and ensuring a safe workplace environment.

FOOD SAFETY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead by example to ensure our highest quality manufacturing practices are being met
• Ensure team members follow all Ken’s Food Safety and GMP policies
• Ensure all work is completed in a safe and sanitary manner
• Ensure team members produce product free of contamination
• Ensure team members Report any suspicious activities anywhere in or around the plant
• Ensure team members Inspect work area for any possible product contamination issues on a continuous basis

Education and/or Experience

BS/MS in Package Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.

3 - 10 years of experience in Packaging Development

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Proficient in Excel, Word, PowerPoint
• Solid understanding and experience with paperboard, corrugate, film, and plastic packaging materials.
• Ability to execute multiple tasks at once and is learning how to leverage others to accomplish a goal.
• Ability to anticipate needs, understands business priorities, and can prioritize own time within and across projects
• Diligent, Strong Follow Up Skills
• Must be initiative-taking, discovering solutions, deliver results effectively.

The salary for this position is determined by a combination of experience, skills, and education level. The compensation range is $80k-110K annually.

Employment with Ken’s Foods is contingent upon successful completion of a drug test, background screening, and pre-employment assessment.