Packaging Engineer - Manistee Area

the-pivot-group-careers; Michigan; On-site; USD 76,000 - 116,000; Full time

Job summary

The Pivot Group Network in Manistee, Michigan collaborates with manufacturing firms to connect qualified Packaging Engineers with current and future opportunities. This role focuses on developing packaging solutions that meet cost, sustainability, and supply-chain objectives.

Design, testing, validation, documentation, and cross-functional collaboration with engineering and production teams are primary duties, with strong emphasis on ISTA/ASTM standards and CAD-driven analysis.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering or related field.
• 3+ years of packaging development/engineering in manufacturing.
• Proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks, AutoCAD).
• Understanding of packaging materials (plastics, paperboard, glass, metals).
• Experience with packaging test methods and industry standards (ISTA, ASTM).
• Strong problem-solving skills for packaging challenges.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop packaging solutions for new and existing products.
• Test and validate packaging materials and designs.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate packaging into manufacturing processes.
• Optimize packaging for cost, sustainability, and supply chain efficiency.
• Create and maintain detailed packaging specifications and documentation.
• Troubleshoot packaging-related production issues.
• Stay informed on industry trends and advancements in packaging technology.

Skills

Packaging design

CAD proficiency

Materials knowledge

Problem solving

Manufacturing collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

AutoCAD

Job description

Packaging Engineer | Manistee, MI

Salary Range: $76,000 - $116,000 depending on experience

Are you a detail-oriented professional with a passion for excelling in packaging engineer? The Pivot Group Network, a West Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is dedicated to fostering meaningful relationships and supporting career advancement. We are collaborating with leading companies in Manistee seeking experienced Packaging Engineers.

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 Manistee 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 and develop packaging solutions for new and existing products.
• Conduct testing and validation of packaging materials and designs.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate packaging into manufacturing processes.
• Optimize packaging for cost-effectiveness, sustainability, and supply chain efficiency.
• Create and maintain detailed packaging specifications and documentation.
• Troubleshoot and resolve packaging-related issues in production.
• Stay informed on industry trends and advancements in packaging technology.

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 (e.g., plastics, paperboard, glass, metals) and their properties.
• Experience with packaging test methods and industry standards (e.g., ISTA, ASTM).
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to analyze complex packaging issues and implement effective solutions.

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with SolidWorks or other CAD software for packaging design.
• Familiarity with sustainable packaging materials and practices (e.g., recyclability, compostability, reduced waste).
• Project management experience, including managing timelines and budgets.
• Knowledge of ISTA (International Safe Transit Association) testing procedures.

Job Titles That Should Apply

Packaging Engineer, Packaging Development Engineer, Senior Packaging Engineer, Principal Packaging Engineer, Packaging Specialist, Packaging Technologist, Packaging R&D Engineer, Packaging Innovation Engineer, Materials Engineer (Packaging), Product Development Engineer (Packaging

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.

The Pivot Group Network offers resources to support your search—market insights, resume feedback, and interview preparation. As our partnerships grow, we'll reach out with opportunities aligned with your goals. Thank you for considering this approach to career advancement.