Global Packaging Technologist – R&D & Innovation (Hybrid)

Institute of Packaging Professionals; Evanston (IL); Hybrid; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Institute of Packaging Professionals seeks a Packaging Technologist to own end-to-end packaging projects within a global R&D function. Based in Evanston, you will collaborate with suppliers and cross-functional teams across the Atlantic to deliver packaging solutions that meet legal, functional and consumer requirements.

The role emphasizes iterative problem solving, design validation, and data-driven decision making, with travel ~25% and a case-study interview during onboarding.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of packaging development and technical project management in an FMCG or packaged consumer goods environment.
• Proven track record introducing and validating new packaging and manufacturing processes.
• Working knowledge of rigid and flexible packaging (tubs, pots, fiber-based products, films) and their materials/manufacturing processes.
• Ability to interpret and create technical drawings.

Responsibilities

• Own packaging projects end to end: manage technical development through a stage-gate process.
• Turn needs into specs: translate stakeholder, customer, and consumer needs into quality attributes and technical specifications.
• Maintain specifications fit for purpose and for volume manufacturing.
• Lead design validation: create validation plans and align with cross-functional partners and suppliers.
• Partner with suppliers to secure packaging performance and resolve issues.
• Drive continuous improvement and value engineering initiatives.
• Track market trends and new packaging technologies; propose ideas feeding strategy.
• Build networks across Marketing, Procurement, Supply, Quality, Operations and third-party manufacturers.

Skills

Packaging development

Technical project management

FMCG experience

Stage-gate processes

Statistical data analysis

Cross-functional collaboration

Problem solving

Global matrix organization

Education

Bachelor's degree in Packaging Technology or related

Tools

3D CAD

Packaging design software

Job description

Institute of Packaging Professionals seeks a Packaging Technologist to own end-to-end packaging projects within a global R&D function. Based in Evanston, you will collaborate with suppliers and cross-functional teams across the Atlantic to deliver packaging solutions that meet legal, functional and consumer requirements.

The role emphasizes iterative problem solving, design validation, and data-driven decision making, with travel ~25% and a case-study interview during onboarding.