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What does a packaging engineer do?

A packaging engineer works in product-based industries to develop and implement optimal packaging solutions. They conduct testing and analysis to assess the packaging’s performance, including durability, safety and environmental impact.

The roles and responsibilities of packaging engineers include designing, developing, and testing packaging solutions — to ensure that the products are safe during storage, transportation and usage. They use different materials like plastic, paper, glass and/or metal to create cost-effective, durable, and functional packaging designs.

Depending on the company’s products and goals, they work with cross-functional teams (manufacturing, supply chain, logistics, and marketing) to ensure that the packaging meets product requirements and consumer needs.

They also ensure that the packaging follows the regulatory requirements and industry standards. Packaging engineers also improve supply chain efficiency by identifying and addressing packaging-related issues. A company hiring professionals for packaging engineer jobs can yield significant returns in product quality, customer loyalty and cost savings.

In the hierarchy of packaging engineering positions, the "Senior Packaging Specialist" and the "Packaging Engineering Manager" are both senior-level roles.

Job Description: Template

[Company name] is looking to recruit an experienced packaging engineer.

You will be responsible for selecting appropriate packaging materials and developing packaging designs to minimise waste, reduce costs and ensure product safety during transportation and storage. You will also create packaging prototypes and conduct testing to meet the required specifications.

You will be required to work closely with different teams across the company to make packaging solutions efficient, sustainable and cost-effective. Beyond offering plenty of room for career progression, becoming a part of our highly qualified team will allow you to savour a competitive salary, paid vacation and a host of health perks.

If you possess a knack for packaging and are looking for a distinguished platform to boost your career trajectory, we encourage you to apply.

Objectives of this role

  • Ideate, develop and implement packaging solutions that meet the needs of the company, regulatory bodies and customers.
  • Identify, evaluate and select ideal packaging materials, machinery and equipment.
  • Work on reducing packaging-related costs and improving the efficiency of the product packaging process.
  • Monitor industry trends and innovations to stay updated with best practices and technologies for packaging.

Your tasks

  • Design packaging solutions that protect and preserve products during transportation, storage and handling.
  • Conducting feasibility studies to determine the suitability of packaging solutions for specific products.
  • Analysing data and researching to improve the packaging process and implementing relevant solutions.
  • Developing and executing standard operating procedures and guidelines for product packaging in the company.
  • Ensure consistency and quality of packaging across the organisation.

Required skills and qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in product designing, packaging or related engineering fields.
  • 3+ years of experience in packaging design and development.
  • Strong knowledge of packaging technology, materials and design principles with knowledge of testing methods, regulations and standards for packaging.
  • Familiarity with production equipment and manufacturing processes.
  • Understanding of sustainability and environmental issues related to packaging.
  • Proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD) software with project management skills.
  • Strong creativity skills for developing unique packaging solutions using current trends.

Preferred skills and qualifications

  • Understanding of regulatory requirements related to packaging materials and design.
  • Knowledge of additive manufacturing and 3D printing technologies.
  • Familiarity with packaging robotics and automation.
  • Experience with packaging-related software.
  • Ability to work collaboratively or individually.