Packaging Engineer

Job Description General Summary

This role will oversee packaging from prototype design through RFQ, supplier selection, procurement, validation, and production readiness, ensuring parts are protected, cost-effective, ergonomic, and delivered in alignment with program timing. This position will also be expected to work on-site at a client location in Troy, Michigan.

• Lead shipping packaging development from prototype concept through procurement and production readiness.
• Review part characteristics, handling requirements, supplier locations, transportation modes, point-of-use needs, and quality requirements to define appropriate packaging solutions.
• Support the Purchasing team by reviewing expendable packaging forms and supplier-submitted packaging costs to ensure pricing is aligned with market trends.
• Drive cost and density improvements for expendable packaging.
• Coordinate prototype packaging builds, design reviews, stakeholder approvals, fit checks, and validation testing to confirm part protection and usability.
• Support RFQ packages, quote reviews, supplier selection, purchase order timing, and production packaging release with Purchasing and Supply Chain.
• Work with packaging suppliers, fabricators, part suppliers, Manufacturing, Quality, Logistics, and Engineering to resolve design, timing, cost, and quality issues.
• Ensure packaging supports safe handling, ergonomic requirements, labeling standards, damage prevention, storage efficiency, and point-of-use delivery.
• Track risks, open issues, supplier deliverables, prototype completion, validation results, purchase order status, and production packaging delivery timing.

• Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Supply Chain Management, or a related field; equivalent experience may be considered.
• 3+ years of experience in packaging engineering, logistics, or manufacturing engineering, preferably in automotive or high-volume manufacturing.
• 2+ years of experience as expendable packaging estimator or expendable packaging buyer is required.
• Hands on experience developing, validating, and launching shipping packaging solutions for automotive or high-volume manufacturing programs.
• Experience developing returnable and expendable packaging solutions, including racks, custom dunnage, standard containers, bulk containers, and supplier-provided packaging.
• Experience with automotive launch timing, prototype builds, production validation, and SOP readiness.
• Experience identifying cost reduction opportunities through right-sizing, standard containers, improved pack density, reusable packaging, and supplier ownership strategies.

• Familiarity with packaging specification forms, packaging guidelines, PFEP data, fleet sizing, density studies, and containerization strategies.
• Working knowledge of CAD drawings, STEP files, packaging prints, and supplier design reviews.
• Understanding of ergonomic, quality, transportation, labeling, and damage prevention requirements for inbound shipping packaging.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, communication, and project management skills.
• Able to work effectively with Purchasing, Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Quality, Engineering, suppliers, and packaging fabricators.
• Knowledge of packaging validation methods, including prototype reviews, fit checks, shaker testing, over-the-road testing, and first article approvals.
• Ability to support RFQs, quote reviews, supplier selection, purchase order planning, and production packaging release.

• Ability to lift up to 35 pounds.
• Ability to stand, walk, and perform shop-floor reviews, supplier reviews, and packaging inspections for extended periods.
• Ability to work in manufacturing, warehouse, prototype, and supplier environments as needed.

At Ghafari Associates, we don't just design buildings—we help shape the future of the industries we serve. As a global leader in architecture, engineering, and consulting, we partner with clients to deliver forward-thinking solutions that transform how people work, manufacture, and connect.

Our strength lies in our people. We bring together curious minds, technical experts, and creative problem-solvers who thrive on collaboration and innovation. Whether supporting major industrial programs or advancing federal and commercial projects, our teams are empowered to make a meaningful impact - both for our clients and within our communities.

We are committed to investing in our employees' financial, physical, and emotional well-being, as well as their professional growth. Through robust training, licensure support, internships, mentorships, and tuition reimbursement, we provide the resources our people need to build rewarding careers while making a lasting difference in the communities we are proud to call home.

Ghafari Associates is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all…