Packaging Innovation Specialist

Ferrero International S.A.; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 74,457 - 99,276; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plans

Paid time off

Job summary

Ferrero is seeking a Packaging Innovation Specialist in the U.S. to join the Open Innovation team. You will support lab testing, prototype development, and manage the lab space while collaborating with internal teams and external partners.

The role requires 3–5 years in packaging/R&D in a global company, solid materials science knowledge, and CAD/CAM proficiency for prototyping, including 3D printing. Strong communication and a proactive mindset are essential.

Qualifications

• MS/BS degree in Chemistry, Material Science, Polymer Science, Mechanical-Packaging Engineering, Chemical Engineering, and/or related fields.
• 3-5 years experience in Packaging, Innovation, R&D in a CPG or multinational environment.
• Strong knowledge of materials science and packaging innovation; willingness to expand beyond expertise.

Responsibilities

• Scout novel packaging innovations from the market and translate into concepts.
• Prototype packaging materials and systems using lab instruments.
• Coordinate trials with external/internal partners.

Skills

Open Innovation collaboration

Lab testing

Prototyping

CAD/CAM software

3D printing

Data interpretation

Education

MS/BS in Chemistry/Materials/Polymer/Chemical/Mechanical-Packaging Engineering or related field

Tools

CAD software

CAM software

Job description

About the Role

We have a current opening for a Packaging Innovation Specialist and are actively reviewing applications. Come join Ferrero’s Packaging Open Innovation team where we scout and develop breakthrough novel packaging technologies! The role of Packaging Innovation Specialist is to provide Open Innovation support for lab testing, prototypes, and owning the lab space. They are responsible for test reports and collaborating with Open Innovation Managers (Packaging and Toys etc.) as well as external innovation partners (scouting, IP review, etc.). A successful candidate will be comfortable running the open innovation packaging lab equipment as well as being a creative problem solver who likes to discover new technologies.

Main Responsibilities

Packaging Innovation

• Scout novel packaging innovation from the market and utilize to create new formulations / concepts.
• Prototype the packaging materials and system by using lab instruments.
• Coordinate trials and connections with external/internal partners.
• Operate CAD and CAM software as part of prototyping workflow to support breakthrough toy and packaging development (including comfortable learning and using AI design and development tools)
• Be a key ally to the N. America Innovation center, Strategy & Innovation teams by effectively contributing to all relevant Innovation projects.

Packaging Evaluation

• Understand, plan, prepare, execute and report packaging performance test requests through packaging lab activities. (Conduct packaging testing)
• Ability to work independently and able to set priorities.
• Update supervisor with test schedules and reports.

Lab Organization

• Perform Lab instruments routine maintenance.
• Maintain a tidy and clean lab environment.
• Other ad hoc duties as assigned.

About You

• MS/BS degree in Chemistry, Material Science, Polymer Science, Mechanical-Packaging Engineering, Chemical Engineering, and/or related fields
• Minimum of 3-5 years experience in Packaging, Innovation, R&D, and/or development experience in a CPG and/or Multi-national corporation
• Strong scientific knowledge in Material Science (physical and chemical properties of polymers), Packaging Innovation, Material Engineering, but willing to extend scope of work beyond area of expertise
• Experience in a relevant CAD, CAM software, and prototyping workflow (3D printing, small component assemblies).
• Strong business acumen with superior oral and written communication skills
• Enthusiastic, curious, proactive, analytical, open-minded, and patient with a “can-do” attitude and a strategic mind-set
• Strong attitude to connect external and internal stakeholders toward a synergistic approach to complex packaging projects
• Self-driven and capable of dealing with unstructured and emerging environments
• Critical thinking and Creative problem solving
• Experience with proactive laboratory piloting
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, Excel, Word, and Powerpoint

Artificial Intelligence Disclosure

As part of our recruitment process, Ferrero may use artificial intelligence (AI) enabled tools to assist with reviewing candidate applications. These tools are used solely to support recruiters by summarizing application information and identifying potential alignment with job requirements. AI does not independently screen out or select candidates, and it does not replace human judgment. Final decisions regarding candidate progression are always made by Ferrero recruiters and hiring managers.

What We Offer

• The base compensation range for this position is $74,457 - 99, 276. Actual compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and other job-related factors permitted by law. This range represents the anticipated salary for this position at this time.
• In addition to base salary, we offer a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and other benefits.

About Ferrero

Ferrero began its journey in the small town of Alba in Piedmont, Italy, in 1946. Today, it is one of the world’s largest sweet-packaged food companies, with many iconic brands sold in countries all over the world. Find out more at ferrero.com.

DE&I at Ferrero

Ferrero is committed to building a diverse and inclusive culture in which all employees feel welcomed and appreciated and have the same opportunities.

We believe all our people are equally talented in their own way.

In nurturing the curiosity and natural abilities of our employees, we provide them, generation after generation, the means to succeed personally and professionally, enabling them to craft their journey at Ferrero.

The diversity of our talents is what makes our work environment multicultural, innovative, and highly rewarding.

Find out more here.

Equal Opportunity

Ferrero is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable human rights laws.

Ferrero will recruit, hire, train, and promote all persons without regard to race, creed, color, sex (including pregnancy, gender, sexual orientation, and gender identity), religion, national origin or ancestry, age, disability, or history of disability (except where physical or mental abilities are a bona fide occupational requirement and the individual is not able to perform the essential functions of the position even with reasonable accommodations), citizenship, or any other protected characteristic.

Ferrero will accommodate the needs of applicants with disabilities throughout all stages of the selection process. If you need accommodation during the recruitment process, please advise the People & Organization (HR) Representative.

Information relating to the need for accommodation and accommodation measures will be addressed confidentially.