Packaging Engineer - Grand Rapids Area

the-pivot-group-careers; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 71,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

The Pivot Group Network in Grand Rapids, MI is seeking experienced Packaging Engineers to join partner manufacturers. This role focuses on designing and testing packaging solutions for diverse products and collaborating with R&D, manufacturing, and marketing to meet exacting requirements.

Ideal candidates bring 3+ years of packaging development experience, strong CAD skills (SolidWorks, AutoCAD), and a solid understanding of materials, testing standards, and sustainability goals.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical, Chemical, or related field.
• 3+ years in packaging development or engineering in a manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks, AutoCAD).
• Knowledge of packaging materials and manufacturing processes.
• Experience with packaging test methods and standards (ASTM, ISTA).
• Strong problem-solving and cost/sustainability focus.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and test packaging for new and existing products.
• Collaborate with R&D, manufacturing, and marketing to define packaging requirements.
• Optimize packaging for cost, manufacturability, sustainability, and product protection.
• Conduct packaging material selection, testing, and qualification to ensure quality and regulatory compliance.
• Develop and maintain packaging documentation, including specifications, drawings, and test protocols.
• Troubleshoot and resolve packaging issues on the production line.
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives for packaging processes and materials.
• Stay current with industry trends and advancements in packaging technology and materials.

Skills

CAD proficiency

Problem-solving

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

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

Tools

SolidWorks

AutoCAD

Job description

Packaging Engineer | Grand Rapids, MI

Salary Range: $71,000 - $110,000 depending on experience

Are you a dedicated 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 career growth. We partner with leading manufacturing companies in Grand Rapids, seeking experienced Packaging Engineers to strengthen their teams.

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 multiple companies in Grand Rapids seeking experienced Packaging Engineers. These organizations value long‑term fit and are looking for professionals who bring both skill and alignment. By joining our network, you gain access to opportunities tailored to your goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and test packaging for new and existing products.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams, including R&D, manufacturing, and marketing, to define packaging requirements and specifications.
• Optimize packaging designs for cost‑effectiveness, manufacturability, sustainability, and product protection.
• Conduct packaging material selection, testing, and qualification to ensure compliance with quality and regulatory standards.
• Develop and maintain packaging documentation, including specifications, drawings, and test protocols.
• Troubleshoot and resolve packaging‑related issues on the production line.
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives for packaging processes and materials.
• Stay current with industry trends and advancements in packaging technology and materials.

Recommended Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• 3+ years of experience in packaging development or engineering within a manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) for package design and analysis.
• Demonstrated understanding of various packaging materials, their properties, and manufacturing processes (e.g., plastics, paperboard, glass).
• Experience with packaging test methods and standards (e.g., ASTM, ISTA).
• Strong problem‑solving skills with a focus on optimizing packaging for cost, sustainability, and manufacturability.

Bonus Qualifications

• Proficiency in SolidWorks or other CAD software for packaging design.
• Experience with sustainable packaging materials and practices.
• Familiarity with automated packaging machinery and systems.
• Knowledge of ISTA or ASTM packaging test methods and standards.

Job Titles That Should Apply

Packaging Engineer, Packaging Development Engineer, Packaging Specialist, Packaging Technologist, Senior Packaging Engineer, Principal Packaging Engineer, Packaging R&D Engineer, Packaging Innovation Engineer, Materials and Packaging Engineer, Supply Chain Packaging Engineer