Packaging Engineering Lead

PACIV; Ireland; On-site; EUR 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

PACIV is seeking a Packaging Engineering Lead for a site-based role in Cork, Ireland. You will own end-to-end packaging engineering execution, leading the workstream through installation, commissioning, performance testing, and readiness to startup.

You will manage two direct reports and collaborate with EPCM partners, OEMs, and internal functions to ensure safe, on-time delivery. The role requires strong expertise in aseptic packaging, high-hygiene systems, CAPEX governance, and experience with

Qualifications

• 5+ years in engineering in F&B/pharma or related regulated process manufacturing.
• Proven track record leading CAPEX or greenfield/brownfield projects.
• Strong experience in aseptic/high-hygiene packaging technologies.
• Experience with commissioning and qualification (FAT/SAT, IQ/OQ/PQ).
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams and external partners.

Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end packaging engineering execution for F&B projects.
• Oversee installation, commissioning, qualification and startup to meet safety and quality standards.
• Manage CAPEX packages, schedules, cost control, and supplier engagement.
• Collaborate with EPCM, OEMs, construction, and internal stakeholders for readiness and change planning.

Skills

CAPEX management

Aseptic packaging

Cross-functional leadership

Packaging engineering

Regulatory compliance

Commissioning & qualification

Vendor management

Automation understanding

Project coordination

P&IDs interpretation

Education

BSc in Mechanical/Chemical/Industrial Engineering

Job description

Position: Packaging Engineering Lead. Location: Cork, Ireland.

PACIV, a global leader in industrial automation solutions with offices in Ireland, the United States and Puerto Rico, and serving the Life Science, Food & Beverage (F&B) and Utilities industries, is looking for an experienced Packaging Engineering Lead for a F&B project. This is a site-based role.

As the Packaging Engineering Lead, you will own the end-to‑end packaging engineering execution, leading the workstream through filler and downstream/EOL installation, integration, commissioning, performance testing, and operational readiness. You will ensure all packaging systems are delivered safely, on time, and in full, aligned to project milestones, quality expectations, and Company Engineering Standards.

Reporting directly to the Project Director, you will lead a team of two (Filler & EOL engineers) and collaborate closely with EPCM partners, OEM suppliers, construction teams, and internal stakeholders across Operations, Quality, R&I, EHS, Maintenance, Supply Chain and C&P.

In this role you will oversee the execution, integration, and commissioning of core packaging systems including aseptic fillers/closers, cap and container sterilization, capping/sealing, conveyors and accumulation, in‑line inspection (vision, weight, seal integrity), labelling/printing, case/tray packing, and palletizing ensuring all equipment and hygienic utilities are delivered safely, on time, and in full to specification. This role is to ensure they are installed, commissioned, and qualified to the highest standards. Your leadership will be essential in ensuring the facility meets Company expectations for safety, quality, efficiency, and innovation as it progresses toward startup and operational readiness.

As part of the plant’s project leadership team, you will contribute to strategic and operational decisions throughout the project lifecycle. You will be responsible for technical execution, commissioning readiness, timeline management, and CAPEX oversight for process‑related packages.

Key Responsibilities Of The Role

• Lead the filler & EOL packaging engineering workstream, setting priorities and performance expectations
• Manage and coach two direct reports (Filler / EOL), building technical capability and a safety‑first culture
• Serve as the packaging engineering authority, ensuring alignment with Company standards and best practices

Project Execution & Commissioning

• Oversee installation, integration, commissioning, and qualification of packaging systems: aseptic filler/closer, cap/container sterilization (e.g., H2O2/UV), capping, conveyors/accumulation, inspection (weight, vision, seal integrity), labelling, shrink/tray/case packing, palletizing, stretch wrapping, pallet labelling, pallet conveyor/AGV interfaces, and associated hygienic utilities (sterile air, nitrogen, vacuum, clean steam)
• Lead commissioning/start‑up strategy, FAT/SAT, IQ/OQ/PQ, ramp‑up to target OEE, and punch‑list closure
• Troubleshoot packaging issues during construction, commissioning, and start‑up to meet safety, quality, capacity, efficiency, and hygiene zoning requirements

Cross‑Functional Collaboration

• Coordinate with Operations, Quality, R&I, EHS, Maintenance, and Supply Chain for packaging readiness, trial runs, and changeover planning (SMED)
• Act as the primary interface with EPCM partners, OEMs, and construction for installation sequencing, utilities tie‑ins, and commissioning plans

CAPEX Management & Governance

• Manage packaging CAPEX packages (filler & EOL): scope, cost control, forecasting, schedule adherence, and reporting
• Work with the Engineering Project Team and CAPEX Controller to align priorities and ensure on‑time, in‑full financial execution; support change control and risk management

Procurement & Supplier Management

• Lead the technical aspects of tenders for fillers and EOL equipment (URS/SoW, bid evaluations, clarifications, technical alignment)
• Partner with Regional Engineering and C&P (CAPEX Procurement) on supplier selection, contract negotiations, performance guarantees, and acceptance criteria
• Manage OEMs through FAT/SAT, training, spares/format parts, and commissioning deliverables to specification

Standards, Compliance & Safety

• Ensure all packaging systems comply with Company global standards, aseptic/hygienic design principles, GMP/HACCP, and applicable food safety regulations
• Embed Safety by Design and quality‑focused engineering across execution and commissioning; ensure robust validation and documentation

Operational Readiness & Handover

• Develop/approve SOPs, training materials, PM plans, and spare parts lists; load master data into CMMS as required
• Ensure seamless handover to Operations and Maintenance, including training, troubleshooting guides, and performance baselines; capture lessons learned

Reporting & Decision Support

• Provide structured updates on progress, risks, commissioning readiness, and mitigations to the Project Director and leadership team
• Support strategic and operational decision‑making with timely technical insights and data

Requirements

Education

• BSc in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Food Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related technical discipline

Experience & Skills Required

• 5+ years of engineering experience in F&B, pharmaceutical or related regulated process manufacturing sector
• Proven track record leading CAPEX or greenfield/brownfield industrial projects
• Strong experience in aseptic/ESL filling and high-hygiene packaging technologies
• Experience managing cross-functional teams and external engineering partners
• Experience with commissioning and qualification (FAT/SAT, IQ/OQ/PQ)
• Ability to interpret engineering documents (P&IDs, PFDs, layouts, technical specs..)
• Strong troubleshooting skills during installation and startup
• Understanding of automation and process control (PLC/SCADA)
• Ability to lead technical discussions with vendors
• Effective communication with technical and non‑technical stakeholders
• Ability to influence and align cross‑functional teams
• Strong collaboration with internal and external partners