Packaging Engineer - Cadillac Area

the-pivot-group-careers; Cadillac (MI); On-site; USD 75,000 - 114,000; Full time

Job summary

The Pivot Group Network is seeking a Packaging Engineer in Cadillac, MI to lead packaging development for our manufacturing clients.

You will design, test, and optimize packaging solutions for new and existing products, ensuring alignment with product requirements, brand standards, and operational goals.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering or related field.
• 3+ years of packaging engineering experience in manufacturing.
• Proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks, AutoCAD) for package design and analysis.
• Strong understanding of packaging materials, properties, and manufacturing processes.
• Experience with packaging equipment, automation, and material handling systems.
• Knowledge of ISTA/ASTM/FDA standards for packaging performance and safety.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and test packaging solutions for new and existing products.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure packaging meets product, brand, and operational requirements.
• Optimize packaging for cost-effectiveness, sustainability, manufacturability, and supply chain efficiency.
• Conduct packaging material testing and validation to ensure quality and regulatory compliance.
• Develop and maintain packaging specifications, bills of material, and technical documentation.
• Troubleshoot packaging-related issues on the production line and implement corrective actions.
• Research and evaluate new packaging materials, technologies, and equipment.

Skills

CAD software

Packaging design

Regulatory standards

Cross-functional teamwork

Education

Packaging Engineering degree

Tools

SolidWorks

AutoCAD

Job description

Packaging Engineer | Cadillac, MI

Salary Range: $75,000 - $114,000 depending on experience

Are you a seasoned professional with a passion for excelling in packaging engineer? The Pivot Group Network, a West Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is committed to fostering meaningful relationships and supporting community growth. We are collaborating with leading companies in Cadillac seeking Packaging Engineers to lead and enhance their operations.

We are building our network of talent in this field across West Michigan and the broader manufacturing region Pivot Group Network serves. Our partner companies may or may not have an immediate opening for this exact role today, but we actively look for skilled professionals in the regions where they operate. If there is alignment now or in the near future, we reach out.

The Opportunity

We are collaborating with manufacturing firms in Cadillac that are seeking skilled Packaging Engineers. These organizations are dedicated to maintaining high standards and are looking for professionals who can contribute effectively. By joining our network, you position yourself for opportunities aligned with your career goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and test packaging solutions for new and existing products.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (e.g., R&D, manufacturing, marketing) to ensure packaging meets product, brand, and operational requirements.
• Optimize packaging for cost-effectiveness, sustainability, manufacturability, and supply chain efficiency.
• Conduct packaging material testing and validation to ensure compliance with quality and regulatory standards.
• Develop and maintain packaging specifications, bills of material, and technical documentation.
• Troubleshoot packaging-related issues on the production line and implement corrective actions.
• Research and evaluate new packaging materials, technologies, and equipment.

Recommended Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• 3+ years of experience in packaging engineering within a manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) for package design and analysis.
• Strong understanding of various packaging materials, their properties, and manufacturing processes.
• Experience with packaging equipment, automation, and material handling systems.
• Knowledge of industry standards and regulations (e.g., ISTA, ASTM, FDA) for packaging performance and safety.

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with SolidWorks or other CAD software for packaging design.
• Familiarity with sustainable packaging materials and practices.
• Knowledge of ISTA (International Safe Transit Association) testing procedures.
• Project management experience, including the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Lean Six Sigma certification or experience with continuous improvement methodologies.

Job Titles That Should Apply

Packaging Engineer, Packaging Development Engineer, Packaging Specialist, Packaging Technologist, Packaging R&D Engineer, Senior Packaging Engineer, Principal Packaging Engineer, Packaging Innovation Engineer, Packaging Design Engineer, Packaging Materials Engineer

Why The Pivot Group Network

The Pivot Group Network was founded by manufacturing professionals who've been on both sides of the hiring process. Our clients are strategic—they partner with us because they want real insight into their roles and the people filling them, not a stack of resumes. We focus on match-driven placements built around what actually matters: Commute, Compensation, Culture, and Career trajectory. Learn more at https://www.thepivotgroup.org.

Thank you for considering this approach to career advancement.