Associate Packaging Engineer

Just Born, Inc; Bethlehem (Northampton County); Hybrid; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Health benefits

HSA contributions

Paid time off

Wellness programs

Tuition reimbursement

Employee assistance programs

Job summary

Just Born, Inc is seeking an Associate Packaging Engineer to plan, test, and commercialize packaging solutions for new and existing products. This hands-on role interfaces with product development, manufacturing, and sustainability initiatives on a fully onsite basis in Bethlehem, PA.

You will drive packaging concept to commercialization, develop specs and test protocols, and support supplier collaboration while ensuring performance and cost targets are met.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Engineering, Packaging Science, or related field.
• A combination of education, training and experience that results in demonstrated abilities may be substituted.
• Internships, co-ops, or direct full-time experience in packaging engineering preferred.

Responsibilities

• Execute packaging projects from concept through commercialization.
• Develop packaging specifications, test protocols, and documentation.
• Plan plant trials to validate packaging materials and design performance.
• Collaborate with suppliers and cross-functional teams across R&D, operations, quality, and procurement.
• Review packaging artwork for accuracy and production readiness.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Effective communication

Cross-functional collaboration

Project management

Adaptability

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Engineering

Packaging Science

Related field

Tools

CAD tools

2D/3D modelling

SAP ERP

Design software

Job description

Just Born, Inc . is a family-owned candy manufacturer that has been creating joyful moments for generations. Founded in 1923 and headquartered in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, we are proud to produce iconic brands like PEEPS®, MIKE AND IKE®, HOT TAMALES®, and GOLDENBERG’S® PEANUT CHEWS®. Our purpose is simple: to create joyful moments and build stronger communities . Guided by our highest ideals - to take care of each other, do the right thing, and give forward - we remain committed to our people, our consumers, our community, and the planet.

Position Summary:

We are seeking an Associate Packaging Engineer to plan, develop, test, and commercialize packaging solutions for new and existing products. This is a hands‑on role with exposure to new product development, continuous improvement, manufacturing, and sustainability .

You will work across packaging development, commercialization, supplier collaboration, manufacturing support, and data management. You will partner with cross‑functional teams and suppliers to bring packaging concepts from ideation through commercialization.

You will help ensure solutions meet performance, cost, and operational requirements.

Work Model: This is a fully onsite role, five days per week, supporting a live manufacturing operation.

How You’ll Impact Results:

• Execute packaging projects from concept through commercialization
• Support new product launches and continuous improvement initiatives through structured stage‑gate processes
• Analyze engineering drawings, specifications, and test data to ensure packaging performance and feasibility
• Develop and maintain packaging specifications, test protocols, and documentation

Testing, Validation & Manufacturing Support

• Plan and execute plant trials to validate packaging materials and design performance
• Troubleshoot packaging and production challenges in collaboration with manufacturing teams
• Provide technical support during production startups and scale‑up activities
• Ensure packaging performs effectively across manufacturing, distribution, and retail environments

Supplier & Cross‑Functional Collaboration

• Partner with suppliers to develop, test, and improve packaging solutions
• Collaborate across R&D, operations, quality, and procurement to align packaging with product and process requirements
• Review packaging artwork for accuracy and production readiness
• Maintain accurate packaging data, material specifications, and bill of materials in SAP
• Support coding and printing systems to ensure reliable production execution
• Use data and root cause analysis to identify and implement improvements
• Contribute to sustainability efforts including material optimization, waste reduction, and recyclability improvements

Your Qualifications That Will Ensure Success :

Education & Certification:

• Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Engineering, Packaging Science, or a related field

A combination of education, training and experience that results in demonstrated abilities may be substituted.

Experience:

• Relevant experience in packaging engineering through internships, co‑ops, or direct full‑time roles required
• Required minimum of 6 months of cumulative, relevant experience in CPG manufacturing environment preferred
• Approximately 12 months + experience strongly preferred
• Exposure to consumer packaged goods or manufacturing environments preferred
• Strong analytical skills and ability to interpret technical data and engineering specifications
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt to changing timelines
• Effective communication skills, with the ability to collaborate across technical and non‑technical teams
• Familiarity with CAD, 2D/3D modeling, or design tools preferred
• Experience or interest in ERP systems (such as SAP), packaging data management, or project tools is a plus
• Demonstrated initiative, curiosity, and accountability
• Ability to work effectively across office and manufacturing environments, including occasional travel and hands‑on interaction with equipment and production lines

Just Born is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer: Female / Minority / Disability / Protected Veteran / Sexual Orientation / Gender Identity

Our Pledge to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion:

Vision

Just Born’s Vision is to create a workplace where every associate feels inspired and confident to bring their whole selves to work.

Purpose

Our purpose is to bring sweetness to people’s lives which can only be fully realized if Just Born values every individual we touch .

To pursue this vision:

• We will act boldly with integrity, authenticity and humility
• We will listen with intent, curiosity and a passion to learn and grow
• We will lift all voices and create an equitable environment for all

Why it’s Sweet to Work at Just Born:

• Legacy & Stability: 10 3 + years of iconic brands and family-owned success.
• Inclusive Culture: We’re building a workplace where everyone belongs and can thrive.
• Competitive Compensation: Base salary, Achievement Awards, and generous 401(k) with company contributions.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Health, dental, vision, HSA contributions, and flexible options.
• Work/Life Balance: Paid time off and holidays from day one.
• Wellness & Growth: Onsite wellness programs, tuition reimbursement, and Employee Assistance Programs.