Packaging Development Analyst

Institute of Packaging Professionals; Miami (FL); On-site; USD 52,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

The Institute of Packaging Professionals in Miami is seeking a driven Packaging Development & Project Coordinator to support packaging initiatives from concept to launch. You will partner with Packaging, Marketing, Operations, Quality, Suppliers, and Agencies to coordinate programs with strong attention to detail and tight timelines.

The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, manages multiple projects, and communicates clearly with diverse teams while driving continuous improvement

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required.
• 2–3 years of experience in packaging development or related fields preferred.
• Experience coordinating multiple concurrent projects in a deadline-driven environment preferred.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate packaging development activities from concept through commercialization.
• Develop and track project timelines, milestones, and implementation schedules.
• Monitor deliverables and communicate status updates, risks, and deadlines to stakeholders.
• Coordinate artwork workflows and approvals with suppliers, agencies, and marketing teams.
• Maintain packaging specifications, documentation, and version control.
• Support sustainability initiatives and identify opportunities for cost efficiency.

Skills

Strong project coordination

Organizational skills

Effective communication

Relationship-building

Adaptability

Attention to detail

Teamwork

MS Office proficiency

Cross-functional collaboration

Time management

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Not a Graphic Designer!

The Packaging Development & Project Coordinator supports the successful execution of packaging development initiatives, promotional launches, artwork management, and operational improvement projects. This role partners closely with Packaging, Marketing, Operations, Quality, Suppliers, Creative Agencies, and cross-functional stakeholders to coordinate packaging programs from concept through implementation.

The ideal candidate is highly organized, adaptable, and thrives in a fast-paced environment with constantly changing priorities. This individual must be comfortable managing multiple projects simultaneously, building strong relationships across teams, communicating effectively with diverse stakeholders, and maintaining a high level of attention to detail while meeting aggressive deadlines. Success in this role requires a collaborative, outgoing professional who enjoys working with people, embraces change, and can quickly adjust to evolving business needs.

Key Responsibilities

Packaging Development & Project Coordination

• Support the Packaging Director in the development and implementation of new packaging solutions, promotional programs, product launches, and operational initiatives.
• Coordinate packaging development activities from concept through commercialization.
• Develop, maintain, and track project timelines, milestones, and implementation schedules.
• Monitor project deliverables and proactively communicate status updates, risks, and deadlines to stakeholders.
• Coordinate packaging sample requests, evaluations, testing, approvals, and commercialization activities.
• Assist in identifying opportunities to improve packaging functionality, quality, sustainability, and cost efficiency.
• Support cross-functional teams to ensure successful execution of packaging initiatives.

Artwork & Graphics Management

• Coordinate artwork development and approval processes with suppliers, graphic agencies, marketing teams, and internal stakeholders.
• Manage artwork schedules and approval timelines to ensure projects remain on track.
• Verify packaging specifications, print requirements, and technical documentation prior to artwork development.
• Maintain artwork archives, version control documentation, and project records.
• Coordinate proofing activities, mockups, production samples, and quality reviews.
• Assist in maintaining graphic consistency, brand standards, and color accuracy across multiple production facilities and supplier partners.
• Support press approvals and production reviews when required.

Packaging Documentation & Specifications

• Gather technical information, drawings, specifications, and supporting documentation for packaging projects.
• Maintain organized packaging databases, specification archives, and electronic records.
• Ensure documentation accuracy and version control throughout the project lifecycle.

Supplier & Stakeholder Coordination

• Serve as a key point of contact between suppliers, testing laboratories, creative agencies, distributors, and internal teams.
• Coordinate supplier communications, information requests, and project follow-ups.
• Support supplier onboarding activities and performance review processes.
• Coordinate laboratory testing submissions and track project results.
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with internal and external business partners.

Industry Research & Sustainability Initiatives

• Monitor packaging trends, emerging technologies, sustainability initiatives, and regulatory developments.
• Support sustainability reporting and compliance documentation.
• Assist with environmentally responsible packaging projects and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Research innovative packaging materials, processes, and solutions that support business objectives.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree required.
• 2–3 years of experience in packaging development, project coordination, manufacturing, product development, graphic design, marketing operations, or related industries preferred.
• Experience supporting multiple concurrent projects in a deadline-driven environment preferred.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong project coordination and organizational skills.
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and rapidly changing deadlines.
• Strong relationship-building skills with both internal and external stakeholders.
• Comfortable working in highly collaborative, team-oriented environments.
• Adaptable and flexible with changing priorities, business needs, and project requirements.
• Self-motivated with strong follow-through and accountability.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to learn technical packaging concepts and apply them effectively.
• Working knowledge of packaging materials, printing processes, manufacturing operations, or product development is preferred.
• Experience coordinating artwork workflows, approvals, and production processes is a plus.
• Intermediate proficiency with Microsoft Office and related business applications.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Thrives in fast-paced, high-volume environments where priorities can change quickly.
• Highly adaptable and comfortable managing ambiguity and change.
• Outgoing, collaborative, and confident working with diverse teams and stakeholders.
• Strong communicator who builds relationships easily and enjoys cross-functional teamwork.
• Organized and detail-oriented while maintaining a sense of urgency.
• Proactive problem solver who takes initiative and drives projects forward.
• Open to feedback, continuous learning, and professional growth opportunities.
• Demonstrates professionalism, accountability, and a positive attitude when managing multiple priorities and deadlines.