Senior Packaging Engineer

Senior Packaging Engineer – Mars Accelerator Accelerator, a global Division of Mars Snacking, is on the front line of unlocking growth across high-potential categories and brands to fuel what’s next for Snacking. It’s home to both emerging and enduring brands, including KIND, TRÜ FRÜ, NATURE’S BAKERY, RXBAR, EGGO, POP-TARTS, and RICE KRISPIE TREATS. We’re looking for passionate talent who dare to dream big, agile collaborators who talk straight and decide fast, and driven performers with a growth mindset. We’re proudly part of Mars, while also building something boldly different. As a Senior Packaging Engineer, you will lead the scoping and development of next-generation packaging technologies and materials across our fast-growing Accelerator portfolio. Acting as the primary technical point of contact for cross-functional stakeholders, you will champion a consumer-centric approach and bring game-changing technical solutions to life—from concept to shelf.

Education:
BS or MS degree in Packaging, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline. Relevant

Experience:
At least 6 years of hands-on, concept-to-launch package engineering experience, including packaging development, manufacturing qualification, start-up, and scale-up for new product projects. Strong foundational knowledge of packaging materials, converting processes, and packaging equipment/machinery. Demonstrated familiarity working across Innovation, Sustainability, Marketing, Consumer Insights, Legal/Regulatory, Quality Assurance, and Manufacturing. A strategic thinker with a Test & Learn mentality, capable of thriving in a fast-paced, rapidly shifting environment with a strong sense of urgency. Robust analytical and data-driven problem-solving capabilities, with prudent judgment informed by industry trends and best practices. Mobility: Willingness and ability to travel up to 30–40%. Prior packaging experience in the Food & Beverage industry. Hands-on experience developing novel, breakthrough materials or sustainable packaging technologies (including familiarity with EPR regulations and CA SB54). Experience navigating and driving impact within a matrixed organization, along with proficiency in project management tools (e.g., MS Project). Technical Scoping & Development: Lead the technical scoping, prototyping, development, pilot production, and Proof of Principle (PoP) validation for complex packaging innovation and renovation initiatives across the Accelerator portfolio. Trial Execution & Risk Management: Design and execute disciplined trial plans, collect and analyze data, interpret technical results, and develop robust action and contingency plans to mitigate project risk. Cross-Functional Project Leadership: Serve as the packaging subject matter expert and lead technical liaison with cross-functional partners in Marketing, R&D, Operations, and Quality to bring new packaging solutions to market. External Innovation & Supplier Partnerships: Coach and mentor junior engineering associates, fostering technical capability building and a culture of continuous learning. Global Community & Network Sharing: Actively connect and network with Business Unit and Global Mars R&D communities to share, leverage, and implement packaging best practices. Best-in-class learning and development support from day one, including access to our in-house Mars University. An industry-competitive salary and benefits package, including company bonus. #The total compensation package for this position will include variable pay, medical and dental benefits, participation in 401k plan, and paid time off benefits.