Packaging Engineer

The Step2 Company; Streetsboro (OH); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid Parental Leave

401k with Employer Match

Company Paid Life & Disability Insurance

Adoption Assistance

Medical, Dental, and Vision

Employee Discount

10 Paid Holidays

Advancement Opportunities

Job summary

The Step2 Company is seeking an experienced Packaging Engineer to lead packaging design and optimization across product lines. Responsibilities include developing solutions using various materials, managing projects, and ensuring performance standards.

The ideal candidate will have 3–7 years of experience in packaging engineering with strong communication and analytical skills. This position offers the potential for hybrid work arrangements.

Qualifications

• 3–7 years of experience in packaging engineering, preferably in a manufacturing environment.
• Knowledge of packaging materials including corrugated, folding carton, plastic, film, and shrink wrap.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to collaborate across teams.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop packaging solutions using various materials.
• Analyze engineering drawings to determine handling requirements.
• Optimize reusable packaging systems for efficiency.
• Manage packaging development projects and timelines.

Skills

Packaging engineering

Project management

Cross-functional collaboration

Cost analysis

Process improvement

Education

Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field

Tools

3D CAD software

Packaging design tools

Job description

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced Packaging Engineer to lead the design, development, and optimization of packaging solutions across our product lines. This role requires a strong technical background in packaging materials and design, along with experience in project management and cross-functional collaboration. The ideal candidate will bring hands‑on expertise in packaging engineering, cost analysis, and process improvement, ensuring that packaging meets standards for performance, customer experience, and production efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop packaging solutions using appropriate materials including folding carton, plastic, film, shrink wrap, and corrugated shipping containers.
• Analyze engineering drawings and product specifications to determine physical characteristics, handling requirements, and material needs.
• Evaluate and improve packaging performance to reduce damaged products, damaged cartons, rework, returns, replacements, and freight claims.
• Optimize reusable packaging systems to improve efficiency, durability, and replacement frequency, including reusable cartons and Gaylords.
• Develop 'one size fits most' packaging to reduce custom complexity, packaging SKUs, and development time.
• Support warehouse and distribution projects by improving pallet layouts, stacking strength, cube utilization, stretch wrap practices, and handling efficiency.
• Consult with purchasing and production departments to determine costs and feasibility of proposed packaging designs.
• Develop prototypes, specifications, samples, and written analyses of proposed packaging for design approval.
• Manage packaging development projects, estimating timelines, identifying risks, and driving execution to meet deadlines and cost targets.
• Advise on efficient packing procedures, innovations in packaging materials, and utilization of sealing and fastening devices.
• Support new packaging launches, cost reduction initiatives, and quality improvements.
• Build and maintain relationships with packaging vendors and suppliers, evaluate vendor capabilities, negotiate specifications, and ensure timely delivery of materials and prototypes.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• 3–7 years of experience in packaging engineering, preferably in a manufacturing environment.
• Knowledge of packaging materials including corrugated, folding carton, plastic, film, and shrink wrap.
• Experience with packaging design for retail, e-commerce (Amazon), and distribution channels.
• Knowledge of packaging standards and testing protocols, including ISTA, and ASTM.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software and/or packaging design tools.
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing and continuous improvement principles (preferred).
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines in a fast‑paced environment.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and decision‑making skills.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to collaborate across teams and influence outcomes.

Success Metrics

• Technical expertise in packaging design and material selection.
• Measurable reduction in packaging‑related damage, claims, and rework.
• Effective project management and ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong teamwork and leadership in cross‑functional environments.
• Clear and concise communication across engineering, manufacturing, and management teams.

Work Environment

This position will have the ability to be hybrid at the manager’s discretion.

FLSA Status

Exempt

Perks

• Paid Parental Leave
• 401k with Employer Match
• Company Paid Life & Disability Insurance
• Adoption Assistance
• Medical, Dental, and Vision
• Employee Discount
• 10 Paid Holidays
• Advancement Opportunities

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.