Senior Packaging Engineer: BFY Innovation & Launch

Mars; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 108,000 - 149,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Mars University

Bonus eligible

401(k) plan

Paid time off

On-site Chicago

Job summary

Mars is seeking a Senior Packaging Engineer in Chicago to lead packaging development for our BFY brands. You will own hands-on innovation, supplier transitions, line trials, and robust qualification work across KIND, RXBAR, Special K, Nutri-Grain, Kashi, and Pure Organics.

You’ll drive technical governance, mentor junior engineers, and collaborate with Marketing, Procurement, Quality, Regulatory, and Supply chain to deliver scalable packaging solutions. Travel 30–40% is expected.

Qualifications

• 6+ years of hands-on, concept-to-launch packaging experience in consumer goods, preferably in food packaging.
• Proven track record in technical qualification and plant start-ups with trial plans and qualifications.
• Deep technical expertise in packaging materials and equipment with robust specs.
• Strong project management skills with timelines, risk assessments, and supplier coordination.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with ability to challenge the status quo and align cross-functional teams.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
• Willingness to travel ~30–40% to plants, co‑manufacturers and suppliers.

Responsibilities

• Lead Package Development: scope, prototype, test, and validate packaging for BFY portfolio.
• Drive Commercialization & Trials: execute pilot runs, line trials, and tech qualifications.
• Author Specifications: create detailed packaging component specs for quality and efficiency.
• Manage Supplier Partnerships: oversee technical relationships and supplier qualification.
• Execute Technical Governance: plan rigorous trials with risk assessments and contingencies.
• Champion Process & Mentorship: guide junior engineers and advance packaging solutions.
• Collaborate Cross‑Functional: work with Marketing, Procurement, Quality, Regulatory, and Supply chain.

Skills

Packaging engineering

Project management

Technical qualifications

Supplier management

Entrepreneurial mindset

Travel readiness

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related technical field

Job description

Mars is seeking a Senior Packaging Engineer in Chicago to lead packaging development for our BFY brands. You will own hands-on innovation, supplier transitions, line trials, and robust qualification work across KIND, RXBAR, Special K, Nutri-Grain, Kashi, and Pure Organics.

You’ll drive technical governance, mentor junior engineers, and collaborate with Marketing, Procurement, Quality, Regulatory, and Supply chain to deliver scalable packaging solutions. Travel 30–40% is expected.