Senior Packaging Engineer - Manufacturing & NPD

Central Garden & Pet; Dallas (TX); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

401k with company match

Paid vacation & holidays

Education Assistance

Job summary

Central Garden & Pet is seeking a Packaging Engineer in Dallas, TX to design, test, and optimize packaging for new and existing products. You will partner with manufacturing, R&D, supply chain, and marketing to create cost-effective, sustainable packaging that meets brand standards and regulatory requirements.

The role encompasses design development, line support, trials, and continuous improvement, including artwork management, supplier collaboration, and CAPEX projects.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Engineering, Packaging Science, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field.
• 5+ years of experience in a packaging engineering role supporting both manufacturing and product development.
• Strong understanding of packaging materials and processes (corrugate, films, rigid plastics, flexibles, labels, folding cartons).
• Experience with CAD/drafting tools, ISTA/ASTM testing, and documentation systems.
• Knowledge of printing processes, color management, and e-commerce packaging standards (Amazon FFP/SIOC/ISTA 6).
• Excellent problem-solving skills and experience with root-cause methodologies (DMAIC, 5 Whys, Fishbone).
• Ability to manage multiple projects, work cross-functionally, and balance technical detail with business needs.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and validate packaging for new and existing products.
• Create dielines, drawings, prototypes, and technical packaging specifications.
• Manage artwork, labeling, and print proof processes with suppliers and internal teams.
• Translate marketing/brand requirements into manufacturable packaging formats.
• Lead packaging trials on production lines; collect data, analyze performance, and recommend improvements.
• Troubleshoot packaging-related issues (sealing, fit, durability, material compatibility, throughput).
• Collaborate with Operations, Maintenance, and Engineering on equipment setup, qualification, and optimization.
• Support CAPEX projects involving new or upgraded packaging equipment (e.g., labelers, case packers, banders, palletizers).
• Drive packaging cost savings through material optimization, light weighting, and supplier refinement.
• Ensure packaging meets quality standards, transit testing requirements, and durability expectations.
• Maintain accurate documentation in PLM, ERP, and quality systems.
• Support sustainability initiatives, including PCR integration, recyclable materials, and reduced waste designs.
• Coordinate ISTA/ASTM performance testing and ensure proper certification for e-commerce channels.
• Work directly with packaging converters, printers, corrugate suppliers, and material vendors.
• Partner closely with Marketing, R&D, Engineering, Supply Chain, Quality, and Operations throughout the product lifecycle.
• Evaluate emerging materials, technologies, and automation trends to support innovation.

Skills

Packaging materials & processes

ISTA/ASTM testing

Printing & color management

Root-cause methodologies (DMAIC, 5 Wh,

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Engineering / Packaging Science / Mechanical/Industrial Engineering

Tools

CAD/drafting tools

Job description

Central Garden & Pet is seeking a Packaging Engineer in Dallas, TX to design, test, and optimize packaging for new and existing products. You will partner with manufacturing, R&D, supply chain, and marketing to create cost-effective, sustainable packaging that meets brand standards and regulatory requirements.

The role encompasses design development, line support, trials, and continuous improvement, including artwork management, supplier collaboration, and CAPEX projects.