Technical Packaging Expert – Cup Forming & Converting (Europe)

APP Group; Leeds; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading paper and packaging company in the UK is seeking a hands-on Technical Packaging Expert to oversee Foopak products on customer lines. This role involves leading NPI trials, providing technical support, and collaborating on sustainable packaging solutions. Ideal candidates will have a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and strong experience with forming and printing lines. Join a team dedicated to innovation and sustainability in food packaging.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Science, Paper Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
• Strong hands-on experience with cup forming, diecutting, and printing lines.
• Fluent in English; additional European languages advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Lead New Product Introduction (NPI) trials for Foopak boards.
• Ensure smooth operation on cup forming machines.
• Provide technical support and troubleshooting.

Skills

Hands-on experience with cup forming

Problem-solving mindset

Excellent communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Science

Tools

Newtop Debao

Discovery machine

PMC machine

Houraf machine

Job description

Asia Pulp & Paper (APP) is one of the world’s largest pulp and paper producers, delivering sustainable fibre‑based products to over 150 countries. Our Foopak portfolio, including Foopak Bio Natura, is at the forefront of recyclable, compostable, and PFAS‑free food packaging, helping brands reduce environmental impact.

We are expanding our technical capability in Europe and are looking for a hands‑on Technical Packaging Expert to ensure Foopak products run smoothly on customer lines and consistently deliver high‑quality output.

🚀 What You’ll Do

• Lead New Product Introduction (NPI) trials for Foopak boards on customer machines.
• Ensure smooth operation on cup forming machines (Newtop Debao, Discovery, PMC, Houraf), diecutting, and printing lines (offset, flexo, digital).
• Reduce trial failures, shorten qualification timelines, and improve machine compatibility.
• Provide on‑site technical support, troubleshooting, and guidance to converters, cup manufacturers, and brand owners.
• Act as the technical expert on Foopak boards: performance, stiffness, barrier properties, and forming behaviour.
• Mediate and resolve technical customer complaints quickly and effectively.
• Collaborate with global teams (Technical, R&D, Product Development, Operations) to deliver solutions that drive successful product adoption and revenue growth.
• Contribute to sustainable food packaging adoption and APP’s Regenesis Sustainability Program.

Learn more about our Sustainability Roadmap Vision 2030 and Forest Conservation Policy, and watch this video about our Regenesis Sustainability Program.

✅ What You Bring

• Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Science, Paper Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
• Strong, hands‑on experience with cup forming, diecutting, and printing lines.
• Familiarity with global cup forming machines: Newtop Debao, Discovery, PMC, Houraf.
• Knowledge of food packaging boards and market alternatives.
• Problem‑solving mindset, collaborative spirit, and excellent communication skills.
• Six Sigma or continuous improvement experience is a plus.
• Fluent in English; additional European languages (Spanish, French, German, Portuguese) advantageous.
• Willingness to travel extensively across Europe.

🌱 Why You’ll Love This Role

• Work hands‑on with Europe’s top converters and food packaging manufacturers.
• Play a key role in accelerating adoption of renewable, recyclable, and PFAS‑free solutions.
• Contribute to a globally respected brand with long‑term career opportunities.
• Be part of a team that combines technical innovation, customer success, and sustainability impact.

📩 Interested? Apply now. Only candidates with relevant technical experience in cup forming and foodboard converting will be considered.