R&D Engineer

Overview

TOPPAN Packaging Americas specializes in designing and manufacturing sustainable, high-performance flexible and thermoformed packaging solutions for the food, beverage, medical, and consumer goods industries.

As an R&D Engineer, you will lead technical programs focused on developing next-generation thermoformed and flexible packaging products and technologies, owning all technical activities for assigned projects, driving innovation, and delivering packaging solutions for world-renowned brands.

This is an onsite position located at our Franklin Park, IL facility.

• Serve as a subject‑matter expert in processing plastic materials for consumer packaging, focusing on portion control packaging.
• Manage processes such as extrusion, thermoforming, blown film, printing, laminating, and coating.
• Provide technical input and recommendations on manufacturing equipment to support current operations and future growth.
• Address internal and external customer needs by developing packaging solutions within a manufacturing environment.
• Lead the technical integration of projects, collaborating with cross‑functional teams, suppliers, and equipment manufacturers to solve complex problems and improve product performance in a timely, cost‑effective manner.
• Generate new concepts that support the R&D product innovation and technology roadmap.
• Develop and lead pilot, production, and filling/packaging trials.
• Contribute to a motivating and engaging environment within the R&D organization.
• Promote a positive, safe work culture through open communication and teamwork, ensuring adherence to company safety policies and procedures.
• Travel to suppliers, customers, and other innovation partners, and for conferences, trade shows, or training.
• Collaborate with sales, marketing, supply management, engineering, sustainability, and other functions to identify needs and solutions or technological advancements.

• B.S. or M.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Plastics Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, Packaging Science, or a related field.
• Recent graduates or 1-5 years of industry experience with a strong technical foundation in packaging and processing.
• Experience in consumer food packaging is a plus.
• Strong initiative, energy, and ownership of results.
• Curiosity and awareness of emerging technologies inside and outside the packaging industry.
• Self‑starter with a positive, hands‑on, “can‑do” approach and ability to work independently.
• Ability to lead cross‑functional projects.
• Strong technical aptitude and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, results‑oriented environment.
• Highly organized and self‑motivated.

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your dependents, including FSA and HSA options.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
• Well‑being tools and resources, including an Employee Assistance Program.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Company‑paid and voluntary employee‑paid insurance plans (life, personal accident, disability).
• Tuition reimbursement.