Packaging Engineer

Description

The Packaging Engineer will report to the Director, Packaging Engineering and is responsible for the development, testing and evaluation of new and existing secondary and tertiary packaging systems, and pallet loads to ensure compatibility of design, machineability and shipping distribution. The jobholder will work closely with external vendors, engineering, purchasing, commercial and operations leadership to drive packaging solutions from functional prototype stage to operational implementation that meet required quality, functionality, manufacturing performance and cost parameters. They will be responsible for participating in weekly project review meetings and provide technical deliverables such as specification evaluations, test protocols, test results, die line and specification approvals. They will be responsible for updating and maintaining the packaging quality systems and specifications. This position requires an individual to manage multiple assignments/ tasks concurrently with moderate levels of supervisor guidance. Exhibiting a collaborative mindset and applying innovative solutions are a must. Responsible to see the project from start to finish and reporting/documenting every step of the way until closure. Act as a Project Packaging Engineer primarily on primary and secondary packaging.

Accountabilities:

Interacts with commercial, manufacturing, product development, equipment engineering, graphics, and shipping/transportation personnel to optimize package design and development efforts. Troubleshoot new and existing packaging problems involving designs, materials and processes and provide creative, timely, and cost-effective solutions. Initiates cost reduction projects and cost avoidance opportunities that include packaging redesign initiatives, package component consolidation, and production line efficiencies. Liaison and communication with Commercial Account Managers, Purchasing Managers and suppliers to obtain an adequate customer packaging brief that can be communicated internally within the business. Coordinate packaging qualification tests with program manager, suppliers, plants and quality. Gain cross functional alignment on project scope, trial requirements, approval, critical paths, budget, and trial results and findings. Coordinate with purchasing and Program Managers the procurement of materials to meet the critical path Schedule, support and perform experimental trials and tests as required and document procedures and results. Accompany Sale personnel to meet with customer personnel concerning packaging or damage problems. Daily support of ACE workflow, packaging inquiries, creating pallet specifications, complete customer packaging data sheets within 48 hours of request or prior agreement. Assists in development of Bills of Materials, and cost analysis. Quarterly validate accuracy of plant capability database and packaging specification databases Analyze packaging engineering drawings and specifications of materials to determine physical characteristics of item, special handling and environmental and safety requirements. Prototypes packaging and models using appropriate materials: flexible, corrugated and folding carton manufacturing, plastic film and pressure sensitive labels, and other materials as appropriate. Consults with company's counsel to determine any product patent or liability impact of new designs. Interviews suppliers of packaging materials and, in consort with purchasing manager, selects most appropriate materials for use. Attends professional activities and events to acquire and expand expertise to keep current and advise on emerging trends in packaging technologies, and environmental/ regulatory requirements. Develops and maintains an innovation portfolio of packaging concepts and prototypes. Organizes, catalogs and maintains an up to date inventory of packaging materials and supplies in support of Package Development programs Develops and executes processes for maintaining packaging specification database documentation including: package component specifications, pallet configurations. Develops and executes packaging procedures including the Packaging change management process activities and interdepartmental packaging processes. Compile weekly reports on the status of key projects and communicate to their stakeholders

Education and Experience:

Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical, or Industrial required. Two to five (2-5) years of experience in industrial or consumer packaging. Knowledge and understanding of packaging design validation standards (ISO, ASTM, etc.), drafting and specification standards is essential. Standard knowledge of CAD, TOPS, Package design software like ArtiosCAD, MS Office, Excel, Access, Project and SAP. PMP, Continuous process improvement and quality improvement methodology experience and certifications a plus. Thorough demonstrable knowledge and a minimum of 2 years practical experience of working in a manufacturing environment particularly with beverage packaging materials Appropriate Technical Qualification (BTEC HNC or Engineering degree)

Skills/Qualifications:

Proficiency required in all areas of Packaging Engineering. Includes knowledge of metal cans & ends, PET bottles, corrugated, folding carton manufacturing, label substrates, films, laminations, labeling methods, printing techniques and processes, pallets, and artwork/graphics development interface. Trained in the use of measuring devices and techniques to analyze materials, components, shipping / test simulations. Able to apply, analyze and improve control processes. Ability to conduct initiatives that include packaging line trials, shipping/distribution testing, and ISTA/ASTM testing for new and existing products. Excellent communication skills both written and verbal. Communicates clearly and accurately with diverse groups within the company (Commercial, Graphics, QA, Product Development, Manufacturing, Purchasing and Shipping/Distribution) and with external customers and suppliers. Excellent problem solving and analytical abilities. Ability to think on the fly and proactively apply and validate new learning's and adapts innovative techniques and breakthrough ideas. Solicits and applies feedback from internal and external customers. Responds promptly to customer needs and understands business case rationale driving current and future expectations. Competent understanding and awareness of Quality and Health & Safety requirements. Basic awareness of Packaging Food Regulations & Packaging Essential Regulations and any specific customer standards. An effective understanding of manufacturing, packaging / packaging machinery technology and processes and the quality risks associated with changing a design or substrate of packaging material. (Preferably beverages) Ability to analyze, interpret and understand trends in data and how these may affect the customer and/or the business. Basic technical understanding of the creation of standard dielines for labels, trays, sleeves, shrink films and other printed packaging Demonstrate People management, collaboration, influencing and relationship building skills. High degree of integrity Strong interpersonal and communication skills Decisive, pro-active and assertive Internal & External customer service desire Ability to demonstrate working under own initiative and thinking things through to end solution Effective coordinator/facilitator, effective influencing skills and competent/successful communication which builds, maintains and strengthens inter-personal relationships Organized and self-managed to achieve time limited goals

Competencies:

Ability to understand the full life cycle of employee data from initial input to carrier feed and how that relates to employee eligibility and enrollment transactions. Comfortable operating in a dynamic, complex, and constantly changing environment. Able to work independently, adapting as necessary in a change-oriented culture with multiple projects, shifting priorities, and deadline pressure. Strong balance of technical and people skills, demonstrating excellent communication and interpersonal skills; ability to lead cross-functionally and communicate appropriately with diverse stakeholder groups. Proven ability to learn, transfer knowledge, and stay aware of current industry trends and developments. Confidence in presenting to large groups or via a virtual environment.

Position-Specific Travel/Work Requirements:

Physical - Continuously standing or walking. Regular requirements to lift/handle/carry material or equipment of moderate weight. Visual/Sensory - This position requires the regular need to give moderate attention with one or two senses at a time. Work environment - Work and environment are very repetitive. Climate: This position requires the incumbent to have the ability to work in ambient hot and/or cold seasonal environments.

A Career with Refresco

Refresco offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits, which include:

Medical/dental/vision insurance Life insurance 401(k) savings plan with company match Paid holidays and vacation Well-being benefits Discount programs

Join Refresco TODAY and enjoy a rewarding CAREER

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