Hybrid Packaging Engineer Co-Op — R&D & Innovation

TreeHouse Foods; Oak Brook (IL); Hybrid; USD 32,000 - 33,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) program

Job summary

TreeHouse Foods is seeking two Packaging Engineer Co‑Op students for our Oak Brook, IL office. Roles run January 2027–June 2027 and June 2027–December 2027, focusing on designing, developing, validating, and implementing new packaging solutions and cost-saving initiatives.

You will work with Packaging Engineering and R&D teams, gaining hands-on exposure to packaging development, cross-functional collaboration, and the commercialization process across multiple packaging materials.

Qualifications

• 2 years completed in college packaging curriculum & currently enrolled in that curriculum.
• Experience with OPS/CAPE software or equipment preferred.
• Ability to interact and collaborate with RDI groups, external resources, suppliers and consultants to achieve project objectives.
• Aptitude for project management, negotiation and technical team management skills.
• Proficient written and verbal communications skills.
• Solid problem-solving skills through collaboration and application of technical skills.
• Basic understanding and experience with paperboard, corrugate, film, plastics and glass packaging materials.

Responsibilities

• Performs technical assignments of simple to moderate complexity under supervision.
• Collaborates with RDI groups to achieve project objectives.
• Research packaging specifications, in-process control points and testing requirements.
• Provide technical oversight of cross-functional project teams and manufacturing start‑ups.
• Participates in tests, data collection and analysis for new products.
• Assist in packaging projects including innovation, cost savings, quality improvements, and operations support.
• Develop skills in project management, negotiation and technical team leadership.

Skills

Packaging design

Project management

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Paperboard packaging

Materials knowledge

Education

Packaging curriculum

Tools

OPS/CAPE software

Job description

TreeHouse Foods is seeking two Packaging Engineer Co‑Op students for our Oak Brook, IL office. Roles run January 2027–June 2027 and June 2027–December 2027, focusing on designing, developing, validating, and implementing new packaging solutions and cost-saving initiatives.

You will work with Packaging Engineering and R&D teams, gaining hands-on exposure to packaging development, cross-functional collaboration, and the commercialization process across multiple packaging materials.