Senior R&D Packaging Engineer

Vermont Creamery, L.L.C.; River Falls (WI); On-site; USD 91,000 - 137,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Senior R&D Packaging Engineer to drive innovation in packaging solutions. This role involves collaborating with cross-functional teams to develop sustainable packaging strategies and optimize manufacturing processes. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in packaging engineering, a passion for sustainability, and the ability to analyze and implement cost-saving measures. Join a forward-thinking company that values talent and offers opportunities for growth while making a significant impact in the packaging industry.

Qualifications

• 6+ years of experience in Packaging Engineering.
• Background in packaging and sustainability experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead R&D activities for packaging supporting new business objectives.
• Identify cost reduction opportunities with sourcing and suppliers.
• Conduct research on sustainable material alternatives.

Skills

Packaging Engineering

Analytical Skills

Problem-Solving

Data-Driven Decision Making

Cross-Functional Communication

Education

BS degree in Packaging

BS degree in Chemical Engineering

BS degree in Industrial Engineering

Tools

Microsoft Office

Minitab

LCA analyses

TOPS

Job description

Land O'Lakes Job Posting Policy

As stated in the Land O'Lakes Job Posting policy, all employees who post for an internal opening must inform their current manager at the time they apply.

Our Growth and Opportunity

Our growth relies on our extraordinary talent. Unlock your greatest potential at Land O'Lakes by continuing to make a difference, driving results, and growing your career.

Senior R&D Packaging Engineer

The primary responsibility of this position is to work across the WinField United platforms to identify and execute key initiatives that enable a robust packaging supply chain with optimized designs and usage in manufacturing. This role also requires maintaining a strong understanding of the sustainability landscape to develop technical solutions that support organizational goals and regulatory compliance. The individual will lead the development, maintenance, and cost optimization of sustainable and technical packaging solutions with a forward-thinking approach.

Key Responsibilities

1. Product Development (25%)
   • Accountable for all Packaging R&D activities supporting new business objectives, including product development from concept to commercialization.
   • Design validation and plant qualification of new/existing packaging designs.
   • Regulatory testing (UN/DOT) and record maintenance, working directly with contract testing labs.
   • Technical report submission for phase-gate project activities related to packaging development.
2. Drive Cost Savings & Continuous Improvement (25%)
   • Identify cost reduction opportunities working with sourcing and suppliers.
   • Drive SKU/package consolidation efforts.
   • Travel to manufacturing locations for packaging design and testing analysis.
   • Identify potential Green Belt/Black Belt projects related to packaging design & processes.
3. Collaboration with Internal & External Partners (20%)
   • Develop specifications, documentation, test plans, and plant trials in partnership with internal and external teams.
   • Work with cross-functional packaging experts to identify product line synergies and SKU rationalization.
4. Strategy & Roadmaps (15%)
   • Study industry packaging legislation and analyze impacts to inform strategy.
   • Maintain a database of all WinField packaging technical specifications, reviewing and updating regularly.
5. Sustainability (15%)
   • Conduct research on sustainable and innovative material alternatives to drive value and meet sustainability goals.

Minimum Requirements

• BS degree in Packaging, Chemical, Industrial, or Engineering disciplines.
• 6+ years of experience in Packaging Engineering.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Minitab, LCA analyses, and TOPS.
• Willingness to travel 25%.
• Background in packaging (chemical preferred) and sustainability experience (preferred).

Required Skills & Competencies

• Expertise in packaging manufacturing and testing equipment.
• Ability to work cross-functionally and communicate effectively.
• Experience with materials compatibility and cost savings projects.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and strategic thinking skills.
• Data-driven decision-making mindset.
• Ability to manage changing priorities with strong planning and organizational skills.

Additional Information

Salary range: $91,120 - $136,680. Candidates can expect to be hired near the middle of this range.

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