Senior Packaging Technologist

D R Newitt Recruitment; Leeds; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

D R Newitt Recruitment is seeking a Packaging Technologist for a fast-paced food manufacturing environment in Leeds. You will develop, source and implement packaging solutions, ensuring product protection, sustainability, and compliance across the supply chain.

Collaborating with NPD, Process, Operations, Procurement and Commercial teams, you will lead trials, validate performance and drive continuous improvement in packaging, cost, and quality while maintaining strong supplier and customer

Qualifications

• Experience in Packaging Technologist roles within food manufacturing.
• Understanding of plastics, paperboard, corrugated, films and flexible packaging.
• Knowledge of packaging legislation and retailer requirements.
• Experience managing packaging projects from concept to launch.

Responsibilities

• Lead packaging development projects from concept through launch.
• Develop packaging solutions to enhance shelf life and consumer experience.
• Ensure packaging specifications are accurate and communicated.
• Collaborate with customers, suppliers and internal teams to meet deadlines and budgets.
• Support sustainability initiatives to reduce waste and improve recyclability.
• Conduct packaging trials and performance testing.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, legal and customer requirements.
• Manage packaging artwork approvals and change management.
• Drive continuous improvement in packaging performance and cost efficiency.
• Stay updated on packaging technologies, trends and legislation.

Skills

Packaging materials

Project management

Data analysis

Communication skills

Multi-project handling

Education

Degree in Packaging Technology or Food Science

Job description

The Role

An exciting opportunity for an innovative and detail-oriented Packaging Technologist to join a fast-paced food manufacturing business. Working closely with NPD, Process, Operations, Procurement, Technical and commercial teams, you will be responsible for developing, sourcing and implementing packaging solutions that meet customer requirements, deliver product protection, support sustainability goals and drive continuous improvement.

You will play a key role in ensuring all packaging materials are fit for purpose, cost-effective, compliant with food legislation and capable of performing successfully throughout the supply chain.

What You Will Deliver

• Lead packaging development projects from concept through to launch.


• Develop innovative packaging solutions that enhance product quality, shelf life and consumer experience.


• Ensure packaging specifications are accurate, maintained and communicated effectively.


• Work collaboratively with customers, suppliers and internal stakeholders to deliver packaging projects on time and within budget.


• Support sustainability initiatives, identifying opportunities to reduce waste, improve recyclability and minimise environmental impact.


• Conduct packaging trials, validations and performance testing within factory and supply chain environments.


• Ensure all packaging materials comply with food safety, legal and customer requirements.


• Manage packaging artwork approval processes and support packaging change management activities.


• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to improve packaging performance, efficiency and cost effectiveness.


• Maintain awareness of emerging packaging technologies, market trends and industry legislation.

What You Will Bring

• Previous experience within a Packaging Technologist, Packaging Development or Packaging Innovation role within food manufacturing.


• Strong understanding of packaging materials including plastics, paperboard, corrugated, films and flexible packaging.


• Knowledge of food packaging legislation, food contact materials and retailer requirements.


• Experience managing projects from concept through to successful product launch.


• Ability to analyse packaging performance and make data-driven recommendations.


• Excellent communication skills with confidence engaging customers, suppliers and cross-functional teams.


• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.


• A proactive and solutions-focused mindset with strong attention to detail.


• Knowledge of sustainability principles and packaging reduction initiatives would be advantageous.


• Degree or equivalent qualification in Packaging Technology, Food Science, Materials Science or a related discipline is desirable.

Why Join Us?

• Opportunity to work with a market-leading food manufacturer.


• Play a key role in delivering innovative packaging solutions to major retail and foodservice customers.


• Collaborative and supportive working environment.


• Strong focus on sustainability, innovation and continuous improvement.


• Excellent opportunities for professional development and career progression.