Packaging Project Engineer Louisville, Colorado Area

The individual in this position will be pivotal in designing, testing, and implementing packaging initiatives critical to our Product Development process. They will be tasked with refining current packaging designs and creating new, innovative solutions to align with our products. The role also entails collaborating with both internal teams and external packaging suppliers to achieve optimal packaging outcomes.

Key Responsibilities:

• Guide the technical evaluation of projects and products for compatibility with existing systems.
• Spearhead the feasibility studies of projects, gathering insights from diverse teams such as Operations, Quality, Supply Chain, and Product Development.
• Oversee the entire packaging development cycle, from design and prototyping to testing, including streamlining manufacturing processes from inception to validation.
• Examine engineering blueprints and product details to determine packaging needs, considering factors like product characteristics, safety, and materials.
• Support plant operations by introducing innovative packaging techniques and continuous improvement strategies.
• Transition products post-launch to the Operations team efficiently.
• Resolve packaging-related challenges in design, materials, or processes with inventive, timely, and cost-effective solutions.
• Manage formulation, execution, and coordination of capital budgets related to equipment and processes, ensuring adherence to budgets.
• Lead significant capital projects, including new equipment and process setups, plant layout design, automation, and maintenance projects.
• Develop benchmarks for evaluating suppliers and participate in packaging vendor selection.
• Drive cost-reduction initiatives across packaging materials, manpower, efficiency, logistics, and storage.
• Ensure compliance with food safety standards, taking corrective actions when deviations occur.
• Undertake additional responsibilities as needed.

  Skills & Proficiencies:

  • Leadership and project management skills.
  • Strategic thinking and critical analysis.
  • Experience in manufacturing and operations.
  • Technical expertise and knowledge of food manufacturing solutions.
  • Proficiency in data analysis and problem-solving.
  • Excellent communication skills.
  • Hands-on approach and innovative mindset.

  Educational & Professional Background:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Packaging Engineering, or related fields like Food Processing or Industrial Engineering.
  • At least 5 years of experience in industrial or consumer packaging sectors.
  • Knowledge of packaging validation standards (ISO, ASTM) and CAD software proficiency.
  • Experience with new food processing technologies and project management from concept to validation, including equipment setup and qualification.
  • Familiarity with sanitary design, USDA, FDA, HACCP, OSHA standards.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.