Open Positions

JOB FUNCTION

The purpose of this job is to apply knowledge of food and material sciences with engineering principles to design, test and implement new or improved packaging materials and structures, to manage project activities utilizing project management techniques, and to participate in and lead cross-functional product development activities resulting in meeting our cost, quality and schedule objectives.

JOB ACTIVITIES/DUTIES

1.                   Leads packaging development projects; develops overall timelines, and communicates project progress on the research, testing and implementation of projects.   Incorporate the following requirements:

a)                   Design packages that meet overall project requirements including, but not limited to, required fill level, product protection through the manufacturing process, distribution, retail or foodservice display, and end-consumer use

b)                   Evaluate package materials of construction to meet overall project requirements including, but not limited to, overall organoleptic qualities throughout stated product shelf-life, durability of manufacturing, distribution and ultimate end-consumer use, and cost and quality requirements

c)                   Develop and implement physical package structures (e.g., bag, carton, container, case configuration, and pallet/unit to meet product quality, graphics needs, and marketing requirements with acceptable cost, quality and operational service effectiveness.  Provides dimensional drawings for graphic development.  Proofs keylines for dimensional accuracy and equipment requirements  

2.                   Identifies and conducts scientific or engineering studies on packaging materials of construction, assembled structures, and equipment to meet defined quality, cost and service parameters.  Communicates results appropriately and implements solutions as required by project needs

3.                   Investigates, develops, and leads cost savings projects

4.                   Develops the package material specifications including, but not limited to, verifying critical parameters, identifying materials of construction testing methods, and establishing acceptance/rejection criteria

5.                   Troubleshoots and serves as functional subject matter resource on packaging line operations, changeover issues, internal handling of packaging materials 

6.                   Trains other employees on packaging subject matter as required

Education Required:  BS / MS in chemical, industrial or food process (not agricultural) engineering

Experience Required:    Broad-based knowledge of packaging technology including, but not limited to, polymers, lamination, printing, corrugated material sciences, packaging equipment design or operation, project coordination and manufacturing processes.  Experience in food package design, manufacturing or plant technical support environment preferred.  Experience in consumer product and packaging development required.

Other:   Able to work evenings and/or weekends

               Some travel is expected (<20%), but there may be extended travel on certain 

               key start-up projects