Packaging Technologist

Manpower; Liverpool; On-site; GBP 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A global recruitment firm is seeking a Packaging Technologist in Liverpool for an interim role focused on sustainability within a renowned FMCG client. This full-time position requires expertise in project coordination and an academic background in Packaging or Material Science. The successful candidate will work on initiatives to reduce virgin plastic usage and support the qualification of new packaging materials in a dynamic, inclusive team environment.

Benefits

Competitive compensation up to £34,672 annually

Work in a high-impact sustainability role

Join a diverse and innovative team

Qualifications

• Experience in packaging or material science is preferred.
• Strong project coordination capabilities.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead qualification workstreams for Virgin Plastic Reduction.
• Execute qualification process for new PCR materials.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams.

Skills

Project coordination

Planning and time management

Analytical thinking

Collaboration and interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Education

Degree in Packaging, Polymer, Chemical or Industrial Engineering

Tools

Packaging moulding technologies

Job description

Overview

Manpower are currently seeking an interim Packaging Technologist, to work with our global FMCG client Unilever, renowned for brands such as Dove, Sure, Persil, and Simple, and become an integral part of their fast-paced FMCG environment.

The position is based at our client's scientific Research & Development facility in Port Sunlight Village, Wirral easily accessible by train and car. This is a full-time temporary role to run for 6 months, requiring 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday. Compensation for this role is competitive, paying up to £34,672 per annum, pro rata, depending upon experience.

Background: Unilever is committed to creating a Waste-Free World through its ambitious Packaging Strategy - We are taking on the toughest challenges to make our vision a reality. We are re-inventing our product packaging and materials to craft the sustainability journey towards our ambition of a circular, waste-free and net zero future. To achieve these goals, we need completely new packaging materials and technologies that are yet to be discovered. Our industry-leading material science programme strives to change our industry for good, transforming the traditional packaging sector into a next-generation technical industry where entrepreneurial passion meets science-backed innovations.

We are looking for a creative, dedicated and ambitious individual with an innovative mindset who shares our passion for the challenge.

[Link to relevant article]: (url removed) Central Packaging Team aims to create a waste free, net zero packaging portfolio through a world class packaging materials capability with strong partnerships and ecosystems. The Centre will enable and accelerate the creation of novel packaging solutions to help meet Unilever\'s packaging ambitions and completely revolutionize our packaging with a particular focus on virgin plastic reduction. It is the place where future scientific leaders of the business are created. We are a high-performing, diverse and inclusive team of dynamic entrepreneurial people with a strong scientific/engineering background, courage and curiosity, and passion for sustainability and delivery that will have a positive impact on the planet.

Job purpose

As part of our world-class Central Packaging Team, you will play a key role in the Post Consumer Recycled (PCR) Plastics Technology program. You will be involved in the qualification of new PCR materials, partnering with cross functional teams, and help us on our journey to more sustainable packaging.

Responsibilities

• Lead PCR qualification workstreams across multiple packaging formats to deliver Virgin Plastic Reduction roadmaps for Business Groups.
• Execute qualification process for new PCR materials, based on aligned timelines, and ensuring compliance with quality, safety, and regulatory standards.
• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams to drive progress and visibility in ongoing projects - including Business Groups, Procurement, Quality, and many external partners and suppliers.
• Manage technical documentation and specifications and ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards.
• Identify and resolve technical challenges related to packaging performance, processability and desirability - collaborating internally and externally.
• Champion existing data digitization initiatives within the team.

All about you / Qualifications

• We are looking for someone that shares our passion for innovation and sustainability, and the drive to take our packaging portfolio to the next level through a multi-disciplinary team approach. You will be part of a diverse project team ethos where everybody contributes to achieving the same goal.
• Academic degree or working experience in Packaging, Polymer, Chemical or Industrial Engineering, Material Science, or Technical Project Management preferred but not limited to.
• Strong project coordination capabilities.
• Excellent planning and time management skills.
• High level of rigour in data handling and strong analytical thinking.
• Effective collaboration and interpersonal skills to work within a team of experts.
• Clear and confident communication skills.
• A quick learner who takes initiative and acts proactively to get things done.
• Basic understanding of packaging moulding technologies, including Extrusion Blow Moulding and Injection Moulding preferred but not limited to.

Job Information

• Job Title: Packaging Technologist
• Company: Manpower
• Location: Liverpool, Merseyside
• Posted: Feb 2nd 2026
• Closes: Mar 5th 2026
• Sector: Medical, Pharmaceutical & Scientific
• Contract: Temporary
• Hours: Full Time