Packaging Engineer - Kentwood Area

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

Job summary

The Pivot Group Network is actively seeking experienced Packaging Engineers for Kentwood, MI to design, test, and optimize packaging for new and existing products, ensuring seamless integration with manufacturing processes.

Collaborate with engineering and operations teams to drive performance, reduce material costs, and maintain regulatory compliance. This network-focused role offers exposure to multiple partner companies and long-term career growth in a manufacturing environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Packaging/Mechanical/C&E or related field.
• 3+ years packaging engineering in manufacturing environment.
• Proficient CAD skills for packaging design and analysis.
• Strong knowledge of packaging materials and manufacturing processes.
• Experience with packaging validation, testing protocols, and regulatory compliance (ISTA/ASTM).
• Ability to optimize packaging for cost, sustainability and manufacturability.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and test packaging for new and existing products.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate packaging with manufacturing processes.
• Identify and implement cost-saving initiatives related to packaging materials and processes.
• Conduct packaging performance testing and validation to ensure product integrity and compliance.
• Develop and maintain packaging specifications, standards, and documentation.
• Troubleshoot packaging-related issues and implement corrective actions.
• Research and evaluate new packaging materials, technologies, and equipment.

Skills

Packaging optimization

Cross-functional collaboration

Testing & validation

Regulatory awareness

Manufacturing process integration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

AutoCAD

Job description

Packaging Engineer | Kentwood, MI

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

Are you a dynamic leader with a passion for excelling in packaging engineer? The Pivot Group Network, a West Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is dedicated to building meaningful connections and supporting community growth. We are collaborating with leading companies in Kentwood seeking experienced Packaging Engineers to drive results.

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 Kentwood 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 to integrate packaging with manufacturing processes.


• Identify and implement cost-saving initiatives related to packaging materials and processes.


• Conduct packaging performance testing and validation to ensure product integrity and compliance.


• Develop and maintain packaging specifications, standards, and documentation.


• Troubleshoot packaging-related issues 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 packaging design and analysis


• Strong understanding of various packaging materials, their properties, and manufacturing processes


• Experience with packaging validation, testing protocols, and regulatory compliance (e.g., ISTA, ASTM)


• Demonstrated ability to optimize packaging for cost, sustainability, and manufacturability

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) for package design and prototyping.


• Familiarity with sustainable packaging materials and design principles (e.g., recyclability, biodegradability).


• Knowledge of regulatory compliance for packaging in specific industries (e.g., FDA for food/pharma, DOT for hazardous goods).


• Certification in packaging-related fields (e.g., Certified Packaging Professional - CPP).


• Experience with packaging automation and machinery.

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 Engineer (Packaging), Product Packaging Engineer