Temporary Packaging Lab Analyst

The Company

The client is one of the Netherlands’ biggest dairy products manufacturers who is also active globally.

We are seeking an interim Packaging Lab Analyst to oversee the daily operations of its packaging laboratory and support packaging innovation initiatives. In this role, you will ensure the delivery of reliable testing results, maintain high laboratory standards, and contribute to business continuity through effective laboratory management. Working closely with packaging developers, quality teams, production sites, and external stakeholders, you will conduct and coordinate testing activities for a variety of packaging materials and systems.

This is a 4-month interim assignment in Wageningen, starting in September 2026.

• Manage and coordinate the day-to-day activities of the packaging laboratory.
• Set up, execute, and monitor tests for a broad range of packaging materials and formats.
• Ensure accurate, reliable, and timely generation of test data to support packaging development and innovation projects.
• Operate and maintain packaging testing equipment, including instruments such as Zwick Roell tensile testers and Mocon OTR/WVTR analyzers.
• Maintain compliance with laboratory quality standards, testing protocols, and quality management systems.
• Collaborate with R&D teams, manufacturing sites, quality departments, and external partners to support packaging-related projects.
• Analyze test results, interpret data, and provide technical recommendations to stakeholders.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing laboratory efficiency, testing capabilities, and operational performance.
• Support the development of sustainable and consumer-focused packaging solutions across multiple packaging categories.

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Material Science, Technical Engineering, Packaging Technology, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience within a packaging materials, packaging testing, or related technical environment, preferably within the food, dairy, or FMCG sector.
• Proven hands-on experience with packaging testing methods, laboratory equipment, and quality management systems.
• Familiarity with packaging test instruments such as tensile testers, oxygen transmission rate (OTR) analyzers, and water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) analyzers.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret and communicate technical data effectively.
• Practical, hands-on approach combined with the ability to perform in a fast-paced, innovation-driven environment.
• Strong stakeholder management and collaboration skills, with the ability to work across multidisciplinary teams.
• Fluent in English, both written and spoken; knowledge of Dutch is considered an advantage.

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