R&D Packaging Engineer

Aleron; Belcamp (MD); On-site; USD 90,000 - 116,000; Full time

Job summary

Aleron is looking for a Research & Development Packaging Engineer in Belcamp, MD, responsible for designing, prototyping, and testing packaging solutions. You'll support new product development by conducting product testing and collaborating with Engineering, Sales, and Marketing teams.

The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering or a related field, experience in laboratory settings, and proficiency in thermal analysis software. Position offers competitive compensation ranging from $90,000 to $116,000 annually.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• Prior experience in a laboratory, manufacturing, or production environment.
• Experience using thermal analysis software and CAD/CAM software.

Responsibilities

• Design, prototype, and test packaging solutions for various products.
• Plan and execute thermal and physical testing in compliance with standards.
• Collect and analyze test data, preparing documentation and reports.

Skills

Thermal modeling

Data analysis

Problem-solving

Collaboration

Microsoft Office proficiency

Education

Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering or related

Tools

Thermal analysis software (SmartCAE, SimCenter, ANSYS)

CAD/CAM software (SolidWorks)

CNC equipment

Job description

R&D Packaging Engineer

Location: Belcamp, MD

Employment Type: Direct Hire

Industry: Packaging

Compensation: $90,000 to $116,000

Description

We are seeking a Research & Development Packaging Engineer responsible for designing, prototyping, testing, and improving packaging solutions for cold chain, retail, food service, healthcare, and standard distribution products. The role supports new product development through product testing, analysis, documentation and laboratory management while partnering closely with Engineering, Sales, Marketing, Purchasing, and Operations teams to bring new packaging solutions to market.

What You'll Do

• Plan, execute, and document thermal and physical testing in compliance with industry and quality standards (ISTA, 21 CFR Part 11, GMP/GLP, etc.).
• Program, operate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory testing and fabrication equipment.
• Partner with project teams to develop testing schedules and project timelines.
• Coordinate with Quality to maintain lab certifications, equipment calibrations, and documentation requirements.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized laboratory environment.
• Collect, analyze, and present test data; prepare protocols, qualification reports, and experimental documentation.
• Execute laboratory and production-based testing to support new product development and product improvement initiatives.
• Perform thermal modeling, simulation, and analysis of temperature‑controlled packaging systems.
• Support continuous improvement efforts across testing, innovation, and development processes.
• Monitor equipment and resource utilization to help prioritize projects and optimize lab capacity.
• Communicate effectively with cross‑functional and remote teams through clear verbal and written communication.
• Demonstrate initiative, professionalism, accountability, and the ability to manage multiple priorities while meeting deadlines.
• Build and maintain effective working relationships while adhering to company values, policies, and ethical standards.
• Respond proactively to equipment issues and project obstacles, focusing on both immediate and long‑term solutions.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

What You'll Bring

• Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Engineering, Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• Prior experience in a laboratory, manufacturing, production, operations, or testing environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Excel and PowerPoint.
• Ability to troubleshoot engineered designs and recommend improvements based on data analysis.
• Experience developing and executing test protocols in collaboration with Quality, Project Management, Engineering, and Sales/Marketing teams.
• Strong problem‑solving skills in both laboratory and field settings.
• Fundamental understanding of thermodynamics and heat transfer principles.
• Experience using thermal analysis software such as SmartCAE, SimCenter, or ANSYS.
• CAD/CAM experience, particularly with SolidWorks.
• Experience operating and maintaining CNC equipment.
• Experience in cold chain packaging or temperature‑controlled distribution.
• Prior experience in an R&D testing laboratory.
• Experience supporting product innovation initiatives involving packaging design, sustainability, rapid prototyping, advanced insulating materials, manufacturing processes, or phase change materials.

What Sets You Apart

• ISTA Certified Thermal Professional (CTP I) certification or willingness to obtain within the first six months.

Additional Information

Applicants for this position must be legally authorized to work in the United States. This position does not meet the employment requirements for individuals with F-1 OPT STEM work authorization status.

Aleron companies (Acara Solutions, Aleron Shared Resources, Broadleaf Results, Lume Strategies, TalentRise, Viaduct) are an Equal Opportunity Employer. Race/Color/Gender/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Veteran.