Packaging Engineer

Kubota Tractor Corporation; Kansas City (MO); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading agricultural machinery company is seeking a Packaging Engineer in Kansas City. The role involves designing and implementing packaging solutions for service parts distribution, focusing on automation and sustainability. Ideal candidates will have a Bachelor’s degree in a related field and 3-7 years of experience, particularly with automated bagging systems. Strong communication skills and a continuous improvement mindset are essential for managing multiple projects effectively.

Qualifications

• 3–7 years of packaging engineering experience in relevant sectors.
• Hands-on experience with automated packaging systems.
• Knowledge of ISTA testing and small-parcel shipping requirements.

Responsibilities

• Design packaging solutions for distribution center needs.
• Conduct testing and simulations to ensure packaging integrity.
• Lead initiatives to reduce packaging costs and improve sustainability.

Skills

Project management

Problem-solving

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Engineering or related field

Tools

SAP

AutoCAD

SolidWorks

Microsoft 365

Job description

Overview

The Packaging Engineer designs, improves, and implements packaging solutions for Kubota Tractor Corporation’s Service Parts Distribution Network. This role supports multiple distribution centers and focuses on packaging design, automation, sustainability, and continuous improvement.

What You’ll Do

• Create packaging specifications that meet distribution center and carrier requirements.


• Design packaging for a wide range of parts, including small, irregular, and fragile items.


• Standardize bagging, boxing, labeling, and protective packaging to reduce damage and improve consistency.


• Conduct ISTA/ASTM testing and transit simulations, including drop, vibration, and compression testing.


• Implement automated packaging systems such as auto-baggers and boxing equipment.


• Improve pick/pack workflows and support WMS-integrated packaging automation to enhance OEE and labor productivity.


• Lead Lean initiatives to improve safety, quality, cost, and operational consistency.


• Reduce packaging costs through right-sizing, material optimization, and cartonization.


• Support sustainability goals by introducing recyclable/reusable materials and reducing single-use plastics.


• Ensure compliance with EPR, RoHS/REACH, ISPM-15, and other regulatory requirements.


• Manage relationships with packaging suppliers, automation OEMs, and integrators.


• Support packaging needs for new model launches and distribution center improvements.

What We Are Looking For

• Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.


• 3–7 years of packaging engineering experience in manufacturing, automotive, industrial equipment, aftermarket, or logistics.


• Experience supporting distribution center or service parts packaging operations.


• Hands-on experience with automated bagging and boxing systems.


• Proficiency with SAP, AutoCAD/SolidWorks, and Microsoft 365.


• Knowledge of ISTA testing and small-parcel shipping requirements.


• Strong project management and continuous improvement experience.


• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt (preferred).


• Experience with WMS-linked packaging automation (preferred).


• Knowledge of SAP and labeling standards (preferred).


• Sustainability or returnable packaging experience (preferred).


• Experience with branding or artwork development (preferred).


• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.


• Effective cross-functional communication and influence.


• Data-driven decision making.


• Ability to manage multiple projects.


• Continuous improvement mindset.

Kubota is an equal opportunity at will employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of age, race, religion, color, disability, sex, sexual orientation or national origin.