Packaging Engineer - Wayland Area

the-pivot-group-careers; Wayland Township (MI); On-site; USD 67,000 - 106,000; Full time

Job summary

The Pivot Group Network is actively seeking Packaging Engineers in Wayland, MI to design, test, and optimize packaging for both new and existing products. You will work with R&D, marketing, and operations to define requirements and ensure cost-effective, sustainable solutions.

Ideal candidates have a BS in Packaging or related field, 3+ years of experience in manufacturing packaging, and proficiency in CAD tools such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD. Knowledge of ISTA/ASTM standards is a plus.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering or a related field.
• 3+ years of packaging engineering experience in a manufacturing environment.
• 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 line integration.
• Knowledge of packaging standards and regulations (ISTA, ASTM).

Responsibilities

• Designs, develops, and tests packaging for new and existing products.
• Collaborates with R&D, marketing, and operations to define packaging requirements.
• Selects materials and technologies to meet product, cost, and sustainability goals.
• Conducts packaging performance testing (drop, vibration, strength).
• Optimizes packaging designs for manufacturing efficiency and supply chain.
• Troubleshoots packaging issues during production and in the field.
• Keeps informed on industry trends and regulations.

Skills

Packaging engineering experience

Packaging materials knowledge

Packaging equipment & line integration

Industry standards & regulations (ISTA

Project management

Sustainability knowledge

Automation & robotics

Education

Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering or related field

Mechanical/Chemical Engineering background

Tools

SolidWorks

AutoCAD

Job description

Packaging Engineer | Wayland, MI

Salary Range: $67,000 - $106,000 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 Wayland, 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 working with companies in Wayland that are adding Packaging Engineers to their teams. These organizations value quality over speed in hiring. By connecting with us, you position yourself for opportunities that align with what you're looking for.

Key Responsibilities

• Designs, develops, and tests packaging for new and existing products.


• Collaborates with cross-functional teams including R&D, marketing, and operations to define packaging requirements.


• Selects appropriate packaging materials and technologies to meet product, cost, and sustainability goals.


• Conducts packaging performance testing, including drop tests, vibration tests, and material strength analysis.


• Optimizes packaging designs for manufacturing efficiency, supply chain logistics, and consumer experience.


• Troubleshoots and resolves packaging-related issues during production and in the field.


• Stays informed on industry trends, new materials, and regulations related to packaging.

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 packaging materials, their properties, and manufacturing processes


• Experience with packaging equipment, automation, and line integration


• Knowledge of industry standards and regulations related to packaging (e.g., ISTA, ASTM)

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with SolidWorks or other CAD software for packaging design.


• Knowledge of sustainable packaging materials and practices.


• Familiarity with Six Sigma or Lean manufacturing principles.


• Experience with packaging line automation and robotics.


• Project management experience in a manufacturing environment.

Job Titles That Should Apply

Packaging Engineer, Packaging Development Engineer, Senior Packaging Engineer, Packaging Scientist, Packaging Specialist, Packaging Technologist, Packaging Innovation Engineer, Materials and Packaging Engineer, Supply Chain Packaging Engineer, Product Packaging 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.