Laboratory Technologist - Packaging

Science & Technology (S&T), Diageo

Global Technical:
Science and Technology (S&T) provides technical leadership for Diageo’s Whisky, Spirits and Beer business globally.

The Laboratory Technologist for Packaging plays a critical role in ensuring that packaging solutions meet global standards for safety and performance. This position is responsible for implementing and validating the International Safe Transit Association (ISTA) testing protocols, which are recognized worldwide as the best‑in‑class methodologies for assessing package performance and protecting contents during transit. The role holder should have knowledge of existing Diageo packaging test methods and will be expected to support the standard packaging agenda where required.

In addition, the role requires successful completion of ISTA training, proficiency in operating transit simulation equipment—including incline impact tester, vibration table, and drop tester—and knowledge of shock loggers and the ability to analyse data outputs from such devices.

The role is based at the Packaging Technology laboratory at the Diageo Technical Centre, Menstrie. The role holder will be expected to communicate with sites around the world and occasionally travel. This role reports to the Global Laboratory Senior Specialist – Packaging (Packaging Laboratory Manager).

• Implement and validate ISTA testing procedures to evaluate the performance of packaging, ensuring adherence to industry standards and best practices.
• Undertake and complete ISTA training.
• Operate and maintain transit simulation equipment, including incline impact tester, vibration table, and drop tester.
• Deploy and interpret shock loggers, conducting thorough data analysis to evaluate transit‑related hazards.
• Oversee the installation and proper configuration of testing equipment.
• Validate methodologies across Diageo’s diverse brand portfolio.
• Develop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

• Support and contribute to the compliance agenda of the laboratory, encompassing health and safety regulations, financial protocols, and environmental standards.

• Demonstrate expert knowledge of packaging materials used in the beverage alcohol industry and familiarity with packaging test methodologies, equipment maintenance, and method development.
• Execute packaging component testing, applying the principles of Diageo’s Design for Quality.
• Carry out statistical analysis of results and present recommendations.
• Understand component applications within Diageo’s processes, particularly regarding component interactions and machinery interfaces.
• Maintain awareness of packaging risk management and test method innovation.
• Exhibit positivity, curiosity, and a strong sense of ownership.

• Manage complex projects to ensure timely completion within budget constraints.
• Develop and maintain a project management plan covering timelines and resource allocation.
• Demonstrate comfort navigating ambiguity and translating it into achievable milestones.
• Prepare and monitor Design of Experiments (DOE) for ISTA methodology development.

• Translate scientific concepts into compelling and influential communications for stakeholders.
• Exhibit ownership and awareness of business implications, including risks and opportunities.
• Prepare and deliver a summary presentation upon the completion of testing methodology validation.

• Extensive experience with production and testing of materials used in food and drink packaging.
• Experience with testing novel or emerging materials and methods is beneficial.
• Technical proficiency in transit simulation equipment and data logging technologies, including shock logger interpretation.
• Food Safety:
  Good working knowledge of hygiene standards including HACCP.
• Auditing:
  Lead ISO
  9001 audit qualification and experience beneficial.
• Network:
  Active network in the material science industry preferred.

• Standards:
  Embrace, champion, and apply standards effectively, consistently adhering to them.
• Perfor…