Senior Packaging Engineer

Location: Winston-Salem, NC (on-site)

The Role

This is a senior-level packaging engineering role supporting a modern manufacturing and innovation facility. The focus is on designing, testing, and launching packaging that performs in real-world distribution while meeting cost, quality, and production requirements.

You will work hands-on across new product launches and continuous improvement efforts. This role carries a high level of ownership and expects strong technical judgment, creativity, and the ability to move projects forward independently.

What You’ll Do

• Design and optimize packaging for durability, manufacturability, cost, and consumer experience
• Lead packaging workstreams on new product launches and speed-to-market initiatives
• Partner with cross-functional teams including R&D, operations, sourcing, quality, and marketing
• Work directly with suppliers and contract manufacturers to qualify and launch packaging components
• Develop and execute packaging testing, validation protocols, and plant trials
• Conduct root cause analysis and drive corrective actions for packaging-related issues
• Create and maintain specifications, drawings, and documentation within PLM systems
• Ensure compliance with regulatory and quality requirements in a cGMP environment
• Identify and implement improvements to existing packaging designs and processes
• Evaluate new materials, technologies, and sustainability opportunities
• Support capital projects related to packaging equipment and processes

What Makes This Role Different

• High visibility across product development and manufacturing
• Real ownership of projects from concept through commercialization
• Direct influence on packaging innovation, branding, and modernization efforts
• Strong cross-functional exposure across operations, sourcing, and product teams

What You Bring

Experience

• 5–7+ years of packaging engineering experience in a regulated industry (food, pharma, or similar)
• Strong experience with packaging testing, validation, and commercialization
• Experience working in a manufacturing environment with supplier collaboration

Technical Skills

• Working knowledge of ASTM/ISO standards and validation protocols (IQ/OQ/PQ)
• Experience with structured problem solving and data-driven decision making
• Familiarity with CAPA, audits, and regulatory requirements
• Understanding of packaging materials, component design, and production compatibility

Working Style

• Self-directed and comfortable taking ownership of projects
• Strong communicator across technical and non-technical teams
• Able to manage multiple priorities and timelines without a lot of oversight
• Practical mindset with a focus on getting things done

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Engineering, Engineering, or related field

Nice to Have

• CAD experience
• Exposure to Lean or Six Sigma tools

Additional Notes

• This is an on-site role with regular interaction across operations and lab environments
• Some travel may be required for supplier visits or plant trials

About the Opportunity

This role is with an established and growing manufacturer investing in packaging innovation, modernization, and product expansion. The team is technical, collaborative, and focused on execution.

If this looks like your kind of work, apply directly or reach out to PackStaff for a confidential conversation.