Sr. Packaging Scientist

PackStaff, LLC; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

PackStaff, LLC is seeking an experienced Packaging Scientist to drive innovation and efficiency across a diverse consumer products portfolio. The role integrates packaging development, manufacturing, engineering, and brand strategy to create new solutions, optimize systems, and advance sustainability goals.

The ideal candidate combines strong technical packaging expertise with practical manufacturing operations knowledge and commercialization experience.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of packaging experience in CPG or related industry.
• Deep knowledge of packaging materials, conversion, and packaging performance.
• Understanding of manufacturing processes and cost optimization.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with data-driven mindset.
• Excellent cross-functional collaboration and project management skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead packaging development efforts for new product launches in retail and foodservice.
• Collaborate with Operations, Engineering, Marketing, Quality, and Supply Chain to deliver packaging solutions.
• Identify and implement packaging improvements to boost manufacturing efficiency and line performance.
• Drive cost-reduction initiatives while preserving product quality and brand standards.
• Develop and maintain packaging specifications and technical documentation.

Skills

7+ years packaging experience

Packaging materials knowledge

Manufacturing processes

Analytical skills

Project management

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's in Packaging Science

Tools

Testing equipment

Job description

Packaging Scientist

About the Opportunity

Our client is seeking an experienced Packaging Scientist to help drive innovation, efficiency, and sustainability across a diverse consumer products portfolio.

This role sits at the intersection of packaging development, manufacturing, engineering, and brand strategy. You'll work closely with cross-functional teams to develop new packaging solutions, optimize existing packaging systems, reduce costs, improve manufacturing performance, and support long-term sustainability initiatives.

The ideal candidate combines strong technical packaging expertise with a practical understanding of manufacturing operations and commercialization.

What You’ll Do

• Lead packaging development efforts supporting new product launches in both retail and foodservice channels.
• Partner with Operations, Engineering, Marketing, Quality, and Supply Chain teams to deliver successful packaging solutions.
• Identify and implement packaging improvements that increase manufacturing efficiency and line performance.
• Drive packaging cost reduction initiatives while maintaining product quality and brand standards.
• Support the development and execution of packaging sustainability projects and goals.
• Develop, maintain, and approve packaging specifications and technical documentation.
• Serve as a packaging subject matter expert and provide troubleshooting support when complex packaging challenges arise.
• Plan, coordinate, and execute packaging trials, plant tests, and validation activities.
• Evaluate technical risks associated with packaging changes and new package development.
• Stay current on emerging packaging materials, technologies, regulations, and industry trends.

What We’re Looking For

• Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Science, Engineering, or a related technical field.
• 7+ years of packaging experience within food, beverage, consumer packaged goods, or a related industry.
• Strong knowledge of packaging materials, manufacturing processes, and packaging equipment.
• Experience with packaging testing, validation, and performance evaluation.
• Understanding of product development and commercialization processes.
• Proven analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to influence and collaborate effectively across multiple departments and stakeholder groups.
• Strong communication and project management skills.

Why This Role Is Interesting

This is a highly visible position with the opportunity to influence packaging strategy from concept through commercialization. You’ll have the ability to drive innovation, improve operational performance, support sustainability initiatives, and help shape the future of packaging across a well-established consumer products organization.

Travel & Work Environment

This role is primarily office-based with occasional travel to manufacturing facilities, suppliers, and business meetings. Candidates should be comfortable working in both office and plant environments as project needs require.