Packaging Engineer

Systematics; Itasca (IL); On-site; USD 70,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Systematics in Itasca, IL, is seeking a junior Packaging Engineer to join our packaging design team. You will design, prototype, and test corrugate packaging and POP displays, using Eng View and AutoCAD, working with senior engineers, sales, and manufacturing to meet functional, aesthetic, and cost requirements.

This entry-level role is ideal for a recent graduate or early-career engineer with hands-on experience in Eng View and AutoCAD, eager to grow in corrugate structural design and packaging

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering or related field (or equivalent hands-on experience).
• Minimum 2 years of professional experience in packaging design and engineering, food and beverage packaging, or manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency in Eng View and AutoCAD for 3D and 2D modeling; experience with ArtiosCAD or Kongsberg a plus.
• 1-2 years of experience with reading engineering drawings.
• English required; Spanish a plus.
• Working with corrugate materials, flute types, ECT/board grades, and die-cutting processes.
• Exposure to ISTA/ASTM package testing standards.
• Basic knowledge of print/graphics production as it relates to packaging.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop corrugate packaging structures and retail displays using Eng View and AutoCAD (3D modeling and 2D die-line/flat patterns).
• Create structural design packages including ECT/board specifications, die lines, and assembly drawings.
• Build physical prototypes and samples for customer presentations and internal testing.
• Support structural and performance testing (compression, drop, vibration) to validate designs against ISTA or ASTM standards.
• Collaborate with Business Development to translate customer requirements into functional packaging solutions.
• Partner with corrugate suppliers and converting plants to ensure designs are manufacturable and cost-effective.
• Revise and troubleshoot existing designs to resolve production or performance issues.
• Maintain accurate design files, specifications, and documentation.
• Assist with cost estimating and material optimization.

Skills

Communication

Teamwork

Detail-oriented

Education

Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering or related field

Tools

Eng View

AutoCAD

ArtiosCAD

Kongsberg sample tables

Job description

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Systematics is a family-owned and operated business in Itasca, IL that designs and produces retail marketing solutions such as displays, signage, fixtures, kiosks, etc. We provide full service custom fabrication and printing resources to the point of purchase trade. We have equipment and machinery to manufacture a variety of items from simple plaques to complex multi-material retail displays. Our knowledge, experience, and expertise, while focused on the POP trade, apply to a wider range of fabrication needs.

SUMMARY

Systematics is seeking a junior-level Packaging Engineer to join our packaging design team. This role is ideal for a recent graduate or early-career engineer with hands-on Eng View and AutoCAD experience who is eager to grow their skills in corrugate structural design, retail display development, and packaging engineering. You'll work closely with senior engineers, sales, and manufacturing teams to design, prototype, and test corrugate packaging and point-of-purchase (POP) displays that meet functional, aesthetic, and cost requirements.

***This position is

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

• Design and develop corrugate packaging structures and retail displays using Eng View and AutoCAD (3D modeling and 2D die-line/flat pattern layouts)
• Create structural design packages including ECT/board specifications, die lines, and assembly drawings
• Build physical prototypes and samples for customer presentations and internal testing
• Support structural and performance testing (compression, drop, vibration) to validate designs against ISTA or ASTM standards
• Collaborate with Business Development teams to translate customer requirements into functional packaging solutions
• Partner with corrugate suppliers and converting plants to ensure designs are manufacturable and cost-effective
• Revise and troubleshoot existing designs to resolve production or performance issues
• Maintain accurate design files, specifications, and documentation
• Assist with cost estimating and material optimization

Education and/or Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Packaging Science, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Design, or a related field (or equivalent hands‑on experience)
• Minimum 2 years of professional experience in packaging design and engineering, food and beverage packaging, or manufacturing environment
• Proficiency in Eng View and AutoCAD for 3D and 2D modeling and structural design; experience with packaging‑specific tools (e.g., ArtiosCAD, Kongsberg sample tables) a plus
• 1-2 years of experience with reading engineering drawings
• Ability to communicate in English required and in Spanish a plus
• Working experience with corrugate materials, flute types, ECT/board grades, and die‑cutting processes
• Exposure to ISTA/ASTM package testing standards
• Basic knowledge of print/graphics production as it relates to packaging

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Works well in a multifunctional team environment
• Good communication skills for working cross‑functionally with sales, manufacturing, - written and verbally
• Ability to be flexible with work schedule and adapt to business needs
• Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple projects with competing deadlines
• Willingness to work hands‑on in a prototyping/sample shop environment

The work environment is manufacturing.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary: $70,000 - $80,000 based on exprience in the field and industry