Packaging Engineer Co-Op

Promega Corporation; Madison (WI); On-site; USD 20,664 - 34,440; Full time

Job summary

A leading biotechnology company is seeking a Packaging Engineering Co-op in Madison, Wisconsin, starting Spring 2027 for 6-8 months. The role involves managing prototype production, supporting packaging design and development, and conducting performance tests. Successful candidates will be currently pursuing a degree in Packaging, possess strong interpersonal and communication skills, and be proficient in Microsoft Office. This opportunity includes cross-functional collaboration and a commitment to continuous improvement in packaging processes.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a degree in Packaging.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects.
• Strong interpersonal skills effective in teams.

Responsibilities

• Manage in‑house prototype production using cutting equipment.
• Develop packaging designs using CAD tools.
• Conduct packaging performance tests and document results.
• Ensure packaging compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Participate in cost reduction and sustainability projects.
• Coordinate with suppliers for material specifications.
• Maintain a safe workspace with kindness and respect.

Skills

Project management

Interpersonal skills

Written communication

Verbal communication

Microsoft Office proficiency

Adaptability to technology

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Packaging

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Job description

OUR TEAM The Packaging Engineering team consists of engineers with varied industry experience and lengths of service providing you with a great ability to both learn and share your experience with others. We also rotate through 2 co‑ops each year who help keep our on‑site prototype and testing lab moving. We work with a broad range of packaging from bottles, caps, vials, and tubes for reagent packaging to foam and corrugated for instrument packaging. We have full design and prototyping capabilities for all materials in-house.

YOUR ROLE Support the development of packaging designs, materials, and processes, and recommend improvements from concept through implementation. Contribute to the investigation and analysis of existing dispensing and packaging operations, with a focus on continuous improvement in quality, cost, throughput, efficiency, workflow, and overall resource utilization.

*This Co‑op will start in Spring 2027 and last 6‑8 months. There is some flexibility regarding start and end dates.

CORE DUTIES

• Prototype Production: Manage and operate the in‑house prototype demand, including programming and running the Zund cutting machine to produce secondary packaging prototypes that meet kit packaging requirements and timelines.
• Design Support: Assist in the development and modification of packaging designs for life science products using CAD tools and prototyping methods.
• Testing & Validation: Perform packaging performance tests such as drop, vibration, and environmental conditioning, and document results to support validation efforts.
• Regulatory & Labeling Compliance: Support the creation and review of packaging and labeling components to ensure alignment with FDA, ISO, and other regulatory requirements.
• Continuous Improvement: Participate in cost reduction and sustainability projects by identifying material optimization opportunities and supporting process improvements.
• Cross‑Functional Collaboration: Coordinate with suppliers and internal teams to source materials, obtain specifications, and assist in packaging implementation activities.
• Demonstrates inclusion through their own words and actions and is accountable for a safe workspace. Acts with kindness, curiosity and respect for others.
• Embracing and being open to incorporating Promega’s 6 Emotional & Social Intelligence (ESI) core principles in daily work.
• Understands and complies with ethical, legal and regulatory requirements applicable to our business.

KEY QUALIFICATIONS

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Packaging.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects in a dynamic environment with shifting priorities.
• Strong interpersonal skills with a proven track record of contributing effectively in team settings.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with attention to clarity and technical accuracy.
• Proficient with Microsoft Word, Excel, and other standard office productivity tools.
• Demonstrated proficiency in digital tools and technology, including Microsoft applications and mobile platforms, with the ability to adapt and leverage emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, to improve efficiency, automation, and collaboration.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Familiarity with the development and application of engineering or drafting standards.
• Experience using document management systems or related software platforms (e.g., PLM, ERP).

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Ability to safely work in a production environment around automated and semi‑automated equipment.
• Ability to perform standard office duties at a computer workstation for extended periods.
• Comfortable working in a lab environment with chemical and biological materials.
• Willing to travel by car or air for site visits or events, including occasional overnight stays.
• Capability to lift and handle up to 30 pounds as needed for materials or packaging samples.

At Promega, we are committed to building a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve and creating a culture where everyone belongs. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we welcome and encourage applications from all backgrounds, ensuring that employment decisions are made fairly and equitably.