Sr. Packaging Engineer-R&D

Description Sr. Packaging Engineer-R&D Who We Are Since 1955, we have been on a mission To Passionately Feed Millions Daily with High Quality Food People Enjoy! We are a third-generation family-owned and professionally managed organization with a commitment to strategic growth. We continue to be successful because of talented people, just like you, who choose to join our family and call E.A. Sween home.

We pride ourselves on fostering a welcoming, respectful, and rewarding culture where employees are encouraged to bring their whole selves to work each and every day. At E.A. Sween, our team members are seen, heard, and appreciated not just for what they do, but for who they are. We hope you'll join us!

We are seeking a Packaging Engineer or Scientist to join our R&D team. This is a key role in the development and implementation of new packaging solutions that protect product quality, enhance shelf-life and support brand positioning. This role focuses on identifying innovative materials, designing functional packaging formats and leading development from concept to commercialization. Responsibilities include creating prototypes, conducting performance and compatibility testing and ensuring compliance with regulatory and food safety standards.

The Packaging Engineer/Scientist collaborates closely with R&D, Marketing, Operations and suppliers to deliver packaging that meets consumer needs, supports sustainability goals, and integrates seamlessly with manufacturing processes.

The target salary range for this position is $115,000-$122,000 annually, consistent with our internal compensation framework. This position is classified as Grade 16, with a full pay range of $94,810.51-$. You are eligible for an incentive bonus up to 5% of your annual salary, prorated based on your start date. Final pay will be determined by your experience, skills, internal equity, and available budget.

• Lead the design, development and commercialization of innovative packaging solutions for ready-to-eat (RTE) food products.
• Champion new packaging formats, technologies and materials that address evolving consumer needs and market trends, enhancing the user experience and differentiating our brands in the ready-to-eat (RTE) category.
• Research and evaluate emerging packaging technologies, materials and suppliers with a focus on functionality, sustainability, and food safety.
• Evaluate and recommend materials for optimal shelf life, food safety, sustainability and performance. Conduct packaging trials, barrier testing, seal integrity and shelf-life studies.
• Lead packaging innovations from concept through commercialization, ensuring manufacturability, cost-effectiveness and operational readiness.
• Collaborate with R&D scientists, Marketing, Operations, and Procurement to align packaging innovation with product strategy and business goals. Influence early-stage product development by integrating packaging as a strategic component.
• Partner with Operations to optimize packaging line compatibility, efficiency and cost.
• Lead packaging cost-reduction projects without compromising product integrity or performance.
• Identify and implement sustainable packaging initiatives aligned with corporate or customer environmental goals. Stay current on regulations and consumer expectations related to sustainable packaging.
• Translate consumer insights into innovative packaging that improves convenience, usability and perception of product quality.
• Stay current with emerging packaging technologies, consumer trends, and market demands in the ready-to-eat (RTE) category. Introduce forward thinking solutions that drive a competitive advantage.
• Provide technical leadership in packaging by leading ideation sessions, benchmarking competitor packaging, and assessing white space for packaging innovation. Create prototypes and proof of concept models to validate early-stage ideas.
• All other duties as assi ned.

• BS or MS degree in Packaging Science, Food Science, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science or related field.
• 7+ years of progressive experience in packaging R&D,…