R&D Packaging Engineer

FAREVA USA; Morton Grove (IL); On-site; USD 85,000 - 115,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Vision insurance

Dental insurance

401(k) match

Paid vacation

Paid holidays

Onsite cafeteria

Work shoes provided

Uniforms

Prescription safety eyeglasses

Job summary

Fareva-US in Morton Grove, IL is seeking an R&D Packaging Engineer to drive technical packaging initiatives for internal and client projects. You will translate marketing concepts into scalable packaging solutions, manage compatibility studies, specifications, line trials, and collaborate with suppliers to establish standard offerings for R&D North America.

The role requires 3+ years in packaging engineering (cosmetics/personal care preferred) or 5+ years with a technical degree.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or master's in Packaging Engineering, Chemical, or Mechanical Engineering.
• 3+ years packaging engineering experience, or 5+ years with a technical degree.
• Cosmetics/Personal Care packaging experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Translate marketing packaging concepts into industrialized packaging.
• Lead compatibility studies and document conformity for approvals.
• Create palletizing plans and source documentation; manage supplier data in COPTIS.

Skills

Project management

Cross-functional teamwork

Technical independence

Packaging knowledge

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Packaging/Engineering

Tools

COPTIS

Job description

Job Title: R&D Packaging EngineerLocation: Morton Grove, ILDepartment: Research & Development (R&D North America)Reports To: Sr. Director R&D AmericasPosition OverviewWe are seeking a skilled R&D Packaging Engineer to lead technical packaging initiatives for internal and external client product developments. In this role, you will bridge marketing concepts and industrial execution—managing compatibility studies, packaging specifications, line trials, and vendor collaborations. You will play a pivotal role in establishing standard packaging offerings for R&D North America, ensuring products meet aesthetic, functional, regulatory, cost, and timeline requirements.Key ResponsibilitiesTechnical Development & IndustrializationTranslate marketing packaging concepts into technically industrialized products.Select appropriate packaging substrates, materials, and components (primary, secondary, and tertiary) in collaboration with R&D Formulation Chemists based on customer briefs.Lead compatibility studies with R&D Stability/Compatibility Technicians, preparing reports of conformity for approval by the Packaging Manager.Create palletizing plans and establish source documentation (feasibility costing sheets, package profiles, tooling specifications, and component specs).Input and maintain packaging specifications and approved supplier data into COPTIS, transferring data seamlessly to technical transfer teams.Execution, Testing & QualityFully own technical milestones and packaging specifications within project timelines to ensure on-time validations.Execute and oversee packaging testing (shipping, compatibility, chemical resistance, etc.).Review and approve technical drawings and color submissions.Support finished goods manufacturing capabilities by attending line trials and overseeing first production runs to evaluate component impact on plant efficiency.Recommend packaging process SOPs and maintain compliance with global cosmetic regulations as they relate to packaging.Cross-Functional Collaboration & InnovationPartner with formulation chemists, project managers, tech transfer, procurement, and package suppliers to ensure project objectives are met.Communicate project status updates directly to the R&D Project Manager.Stay current on packaging and product innovation trends, technology advances, and material science developments.Provide technical support as a subject matter expert and mentor packaging associates and interns.Qualifications & Preferred ExperienceEducation: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Packaging Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.Experience:3+ years of packaging engineering experience with a technical degree, OR5+ years of proven packaging engineering experience, ideally within the Cosmetics or Personal Care sectors.Technical Knowledge: Strong understanding of material science (plastics, glass, cartons, printing, and decoration techniques) and global packaging regulations.Systems: Familiarity with R&D databases/software (e.g., COPTIS) and general IT systems is preferred.Key CompetenciesTechnical Autonomy: Ability to function independently with minimal to medium supervision in a fast-paced environment.Global Collaboration: Comfortable working within international, multi-disciplinary teams and global supplier networks.Project & Risk Management: Ability to drive multiple project streams simultaneously, assess technical risks, and develop effective mitigation plans.Communication & Relationships: Strong interpersonal and organizational skills with an ability to build trust and collaborate effectively across departments.Core Values: Demonstrates entrepreneurship, innovation, integrity, human sensitivity, and a passion for action.Work Environment & Physical DemandsFast-paced, open floor plan workspace.Requires standing, walking, sitting at a desk/computer, and local/regional travel as needed for supplier meetings and line trials.What we offer:Competitive salaries, comprehensive health/vision/dental insurance, company paid short term disability, company paid life and accidental death insurance, 401(k) plan match of 4.5% with immediate vesting, generous employee referral program, paid vacation annually, paid holidays annually, onsite cafeteria, job advancement opportunities. Manufacturing employees also receive company paid work shoes, uniforms and prescription safety eyeglasses.