Packaging R&D Director: Lead Innovation & Growth

Utz Brands, Inc.; Hanover (York County); On-site; USD 150,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical plan

Dental plan

Vision plan

401(k) with employer match

Profit sharing

Onsite gym

Job summary

Utz Brands, Inc. seeks a Director of Packaging R&D to lead the packaging department, guide development from concept to commercialization, and build capabilities to support growth.

You will supervise junior packaging developers, partner with Procurement, Manufacturing and Brand, and own key packaging initiatives across our portfolio including Utz® and Zapp's®. This is a high-impact leadership role in a fast-growing snack company.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Science or Materials/Design or equivalent experience.
• Experience leading packaging development in consumer packaged goods, preferably food/beverage.
• Strong leadership, communication, and project management skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise packaging department operations.
• Partner with Procurement, Manufacturing and Brand on packaging initiatives.
• Manage direct reports to meet project objectives on time and professionally.
• Oversee new item development including packaging, sourcing, and pricing.
• Develop pack sizing, palletization reports, and final packaging specs.
• Interpret test results to verify packaging specifications and compliance.
• Collaborate with suppliers and other R&D teams to drive initiatives.

Skills

Leadership

Packaging strategy

Cross-functional collaboration

Communication

Time management

Education

Bachelor’s in Packaging Science or Materials/Design

Tools

Packaging forms knowledge

Job description

Utz Brands, Inc. seeks a Director of Packaging R&D to lead the packaging department, guide development from concept to commercialization, and build capabilities to support growth.

You will supervise junior packaging developers, partner with Procurement, Manufacturing and Brand, and own key packaging initiatives across our portfolio including Utz® and Zapp's®. This is a high-impact leadership role in a fast-growing snack company.