Packaging Engineer

Overview

Central Life Sciences is searching for a Packaging Engineer in our Dallas, TX location. The Packaging Engineer will serve as a cross-functional partner supporting both manufacturing operations and new product development. This role is responsible for designing, testing, and optimizing packaging solutions that meet brand standards, run efficiently on production lines, reduce costs, enhance sustainability, and ensure regulatory compliance. The ideal candidate has experience in both hands-on line support and consumer packaging development.

Packaging Design & Development

• Design, develop, and validate primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging for new and existing products
• Create dielines, drawings, prototypes, and technical packaging specifications
• Manage artwork, labeling, and print proof processes with suppliers and internal teams
• Translate marketing/brand requirements into manufacturable packaging formats

Manufacturing & Line Support

• Lead packaging trials on production lines; collect data, analyze performance, and recommend improvements
• Troubleshoot packaging-related issues (sealing, fit, durability, material compatibility, throughput)
• Collaborate with Operations, Maintenance, and Engineering on equipment setup, qualification, and optimization
• Support CAPEX projects involving new or upgraded packaging equipment (e.g., labelers, case packers, banders, palletizers)

Cost, Quality, and Sustainability

• Drive packaging cost savings through material optimization, light weighting, and supplier refinement
• Ensure packaging meets quality standards, transit testing requirements, and durability expectations
• Manage packaging complaints and execute root-cause analysis with Quality and suppliers
• Support sustainability initiatives, including PCR integration, recyclable materials, and reduced waste designs

Compliance & Regulatory

• Ensure packaging complies with regulatory requirements (DOT, EPA, FIFRA if applicable, Amazon, retail customer specs)
• Coordinate ISTA/ASTM performance testing and ensure proper certification for e-commerce channels
• Maintain accurate documentation in PLM, ERP, and quality systems

Supplier & Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work directly with packaging converters, printers, corrugate suppliers, and material vendors
• Partner closely with Marketing, R&D, Engineering, Supply Chain, Quality, and Operations throughout the product lifecycle
• Evaluate emerging materials, technologies, and automation trends to support innovation

• Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Engineering, Packaging Science, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field
• 2–6 years of experience in a packaging engineering role supporting both manufacturing and product development
• Strong understanding of packaging materials and processes (corrugate, films, rigid plastics, flexibles, labels, folding cartons)
• Experience with CAD/drafting tools, ISTA/ASTM testing, and documentation systems
• Knowledge of printing processes, color management, and e-commerce packaging standards (Amazon FFP/SIOC/ISTA
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• Excellent problem-solving skills and experience with root-cause methodologies (DMAIC, 5 Whys, Fishbone)
• Ability to manage multiple projects, work cross-functionally, and balance technical detail with business needs

• The primary working environment is an office, with engineering tools such as computer, CAD/CAM software, TOPPS, data analysis tools and measuring devices
• The secondary environment will be the shop floor, laboratory, machine shop, seminar classroom or off-site, third-party facilities

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Free Life and Disability Insurance
• Health and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
• 401k with 3% company match and annual employer discretionary contribution
• Paid vacation, holidays and sick time
• Employee Assistance Program
• Access to thousands of free online courses
• Discounts on cell phones, movie tickets, gym memberships, and more
• Education Assistance (both college degrees and professional certifications)
• Referral Program with cash bonus
• Access to on-demand pay
• Paid parental leave

Central Garden & Pet Company (NASDAQ: CENT),…