Packaging Equipment Engineer

Process Engineer – Packaging Systems

Kalon Executive Search for Nutraceuticals, CPG and Wellness is seeking an on‑site Process Engineer – Packaging Systems, located in San Diego, CA. Base salary is $130,000–$150,000 per year. The role offers a comprehensive benefits package.

• Serve as the technical lead for projects related to automation of bottling, labeling, sealing, bundling, case packing, filling, and gummy packaging operations.
• Evaluate and implement advanced equipment and control systems, including robotics and PLC/HMI/SCADA integration.
• Manage end-to-end automation project life cycles, including vendor selection, FAT/SAT, system validation (IQ/OQ/PQ), and operator training.
• Ensure all control and monitoring systems are standardized and integrated for consistent performance tracking and diagnostics.
• Analyze and resolve throughput limitations, waste contributors, and downtime using a structured engineering approach.
• Apply Lean principles, Six Sigma methodologies, and OEE data to optimize performance and reduce inefficiencies.
• Lead packaging line changeover improvement efforts using SMED and other rapid changeover tools.
• Participate in planning and executing capital projects for new packaging lines or facility modifications.
• Define long-term automation strategies to align with operational scaling and advancements in smart manufacturing.
• Stay ahead of industry trends by researching and proposing cutting-edge packaging solutions for supplements, liquids, and related products.
• Work with Maintenance and Operations to establish preventative and predictive maintenance protocols.
• Support problem-solving efforts and root-cause investigations for mechanical, electrical, and automation-related issues.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive documentation for systems, including specifications, SOPs, and service guidelines.

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Mechatronics, or Automation Engineering.
• At least 7 years of hands-on automation experience within packaging operations in the nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, or food sector.
• Demonstrated expertise with automated bottling, liquid filling, labeling, capping, and downstream equipment.
• Skilled in integrating and troubleshooting servo-driven machines, robotic systems (ABB, FANUC, Yaskawa), and inspection systems.
• Proficient in PLC programming (Rockwell, Siemens), HMI/SCADA configuration, and industrial networking protocols.
• Experience with CIP system automation and cycle optimization.
• Familiarity with smart factory technology, IoT integration, and data-driven decision-making.
• LEAN or Six Sigma certification (Green/Black Belt) preferred.

Medical, vision, and 401(k) plans are among the benefits offered.

Kalon Staffing is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.