Senior Packaging R&D Technologist: Innovation & Trials

The J.M. Smucker Company; Cleveland (OH); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

The J.M. Smucker Company in Orrville, OH, is seeking a Senior Technologist in Packaging Research & Development for Pet.

You will lead packaging concepts from design to commercialization, partnering with Product R&D, Creative Services, Brand Management, Purchasing, and Suppliers. Responsibilities include designing innovative packaging using diverse materials, leading testing across production and shelf life, managing specifications in an electronic database, and driving sustainability and

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science degree in Packaging Science/Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Material Science or related technical degree.
• 2+ years of experience in packaging development or packaging engineering.
• Knowledge of packaging materials, technologies, and applications.
• Understanding of basic package attributes and qualification test procedures.
• Experience collaborating across multi‑function and discipline boundaries in a dynamic project environment.
• Experience conducting plant and lab trials.
• Ability to lift up to 30 lbs.
• Willingness to travel up to 30% based on project needs and launch schedules.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with Product R&D, Creative Services, Brand Management, Purchasing, and Suppliers to bring new packaging concepts to life—from design to commercialization.
• Design and develop innovative packaging solutions using a range of materials and formats driven by consumer needs and business goals.
• Lead testing and validation of packaging performance across production, distribution, shelf life, sustainability, and consumer usability.
• Execute qualifications and trials with suppliers and production facilities, ensuring seamless integration into manufacturing processes.
• Drive plant trials with precise planning, execution, analysis, and summarization of results with manufacturing and technical teams.
• Craft performance-based specifications and manage them within our electronic database system.
• Advise and recommend top-tier suppliers and service providers to support successful product launches.
• Champion new packaging technologies, sustainability solutions, cost-saving ideas, and creative problem-solving approaches.
• Support technical troubleshooting across the packaging supply chain and production environments.
• Learn to assess legal and environmental aspects, and patent opportunities for new packaging.
• Build strong relationships with strategic packaging suppliers to stay ahead of trends and capabilities.

Skills

Packaging knowledge

Cross-functional collaboration

Project management

Problem solving

Travel readiness

Education

BS in Packaging Science/Engineering

Mechanical Engineering

Material Science

Tools

Electronic database system

Job description

The J.M. Smucker Company in Orrville, OH, is seeking a Senior Technologist in Packaging Research & Development for Pet.

You will lead packaging concepts from design to commercialization, partnering with Product R&D, Creative Services, Brand Management, Purchasing, and Suppliers. Responsibilities include designing innovative packaging using diverse materials, leading testing across production and shelf life, managing specifications in an electronic database, and driving sustainability and