Packaging R&D Engineer

Position : Packaging R&D Engineer

Location : Bradenton, FL

Experience : 5 10 years

We are seeking a Packaging R&D Engineer to join our R&D team. This role supports new product development by providing design, development, qualification, and validation of new and improved packaging solutions for chilled and ambient products. The ideal candidate creates "go-to-market" packaging strategies that optimize efficiency across multiple distribution platforms while staying current on packaging technologies, processes, material sustainability, and industry developments. The role also involves transferring technology across internal plants and co-packers to improve system cost and efficiency.

Key Responsibilities :

Identify, evaluate, and develop packaging solutions that meet business, manufacturing, customer, and consumer needs.

Maintain open communication and build strong relationships with internal teams, suppliers, and co-manufacturing partners.

Apply innovative thinking and solution-oriented problem-solving, leveraging troubleshooting tools and techniques.

Lead and contribute as an active member of cross-functional teams, including Marketing, Purchasing, Engineering, and others.

Support manufacturing teams during implementation of commercialization activities and packaging changes.

Maintain and leverage an external network of material and equipment vendors.

Implement short- and long-term strategies to support organizational operations and transformation.

Identify and drive cost-saving opportunities at both the component and process levels to improve manufacturing efficiency.

Experience & Skills :

5 10 years in packaging development roles, preferably in high-volume food or consumer goods industries.

Experience developing and executing primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging materials, with knowledge of their relationship to equipment.

Proven experience in scale-up activities, including writing trial protocols, leading qualification trials, and producing trial reports with actionable recommendations.

Track record of identifying opportunities, setting priorities, and delivering results in complex, cross-functional environments.

Strong project management skills, including developing project timelines with multiple stakeholders.

Excellent conceptual, analytical, and technical skills.

Strong written and oral communication skills.

Requirements :

Bachelor's degree in Packaging Science / Engineering, Chemical or Mechanical Engineering, or related field.

Legal authorization to work in the United States without employer sponsorship.

Must be located in or willing to relocate to the area.

Ability to work in a blended environment with 3 days in office and the remainder remote.

Physical ability to lift product cases and prepare pallets for testing, and to work on foot for extended periods.

Travel up to 25%.