Senior Packaging Technologist, Pet R&D & Innovation

The J.M. Smucker Company; Orrville (OH); On-site; USD 85,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

The J.M. Smucker Company in Orrville, OH is seeking a Senior Technologist in Packaging Research & Development (Pet) to shape future pet‑food packaging. This hands‑on role drives concepts from idea to commercialization, delivering quality, sustainability and a better consumer experience.

You will collaborate with Product R&D, Creative Services, Brand Management, Purchasing and Suppliers, and lead design, testing, validation and launches of innovative packaging solutions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Packaging Science/Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Materials Science.
• 2+ years in packaging development or packaging engineering.
• Knowledge of packaging materials, technologies, and applications.
• Understanding of basic package attributes and qualification tests.
• Experience collaborating across multi-function teams.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to bring new packaging concepts to life from design to launch.
• Design and develop packaging solutions using film/laminate, thermoforming, injection molding, paperboard, and corrugated formats.
• Lead testing and validation of packaging performance across production, distribution, shelf life and usability.
• Execute qualifications and trials with suppliers and production facilities.
• Drive plant trials with precise planning and data-driven analysis.
• Create performance-based specifications and manage them in our database.
• Advise on top-tier suppliers and services to support launches.
• Champion innovative packaging tech, sustainability, and cost-saving ideas.
• Provide technical troubleshooting across the packaging supply chain.
• Learn to assess legal, environmental aspects and patent opportunities.
• Build relationships with strategic packaging suppliers to stay ahead of trends.

Skills

Packaging engineering

Cross-functional collaboration

Plant & lab trials

Packaging materials

Qualification testing

Lifting 30 lbs

Travel readiness

Education

Bachelor of Science in Packaging Science/Engineering or related

Job description

The J.M. Smucker Company in Orrville, OH is seeking a Senior Technologist in Packaging Research & Development (Pet) to shape future pet‑food packaging. This hands‑on role drives concepts from idea to commercialization, delivering quality, sustainability and a better consumer experience.

You will collaborate with Product R&D, Creative Services, Brand Management, Purchasing and Suppliers, and lead design, testing, validation and launches of innovative packaging solutions.