Manager, Packaging Engineer

Work Location: Chicago

Due to the highly interactive and team-based nature of this role, in-person attendance for most of the workweek (i.e., 3 days or more) is essential for: effective communication including during in-person meetings, strong supervision, real-time problem-solving, and participation in cross-functional initiatives.

Want to make an impact?

The Packaging Manager is responsible for leading and developing a team of Packaging Engineers while driving the design, development, and commercialization of packaging solutions across Ferrara's confection and fruit snack portfolio. This role provides strategic and technical leadership to support innovation, sustainability, operational excellence, and continuous improvement initiatives, partnering closely with cross-functional teams to deliver packaging solutions that meet consumer, business, and manufacturing needs.

Ways you will make a difference

• Lead, coach, and develop a team of Packaging Engineers, fostering a culture of engagement, accountability, and continuous learning.
• Set team priorities, manage workloads, and provide strategic direction for packaging development and commercialization activities.
• Oversee the design, testing, qualification, and implementation of primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging solutions.
• Partner cross-functionally with R&D, Operations, Engineering, Procurement, Marketing, and external suppliers to support new product launches and packaging innovation.
• Drive packaging innovation, sustainability, and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance product quality, manufacturing efficiency, and consumer experience.
• Identify and evaluate new packaging technologies, materials, and supplier capabilities to support business objectives.
• Provide technical expertise and recommendations to leadership and key stakeholders on packaging-related opportunities and challenges.

Skills that will make you successful

• Strong project management, communication, and cross-functional leadership skills.
• Experience with SAP, PLM system
• Proven experience leading, coaching, and developing technical teams
• Strong knowledge of packaging materials, manufacturing processes, testing methods, and commercialization activities
• Experience working in a food manufacturing, consumer packaged goods (CPG), or similar fast-paced environment preferred.

Experiences that will support your success

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering,
• 5+ years of experience in packaging engineering, packaging development, or a related field.

What We Offer

At Ferrara, we're proud to support our employees with comprehensive benefits that enhance health, financial wellness, and include paid time off (PTO). Eligible employees may also receive an annual bonus based on company performance. Learn more about our benefits at https://flimp.live/Ferrara-Benefits-Resource-Center

Compensation

The salary range for this role is $102,075 - $142,905 annually.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. In order to provide equal employment and advancement opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees, employment decisions and opportunities at Ferrara will be based on merit, qualifications, and abilities, without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, marital or civil union status, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, military or veteran status, disability, handicap, genetic information, pregnancy (childbirth or related medical condition), or on any other basis prohibited by law. This policy governs all aspects of employment, including selection, job assignment, compensation, discipline, termination, and access to benefits and training.

Nearest Major Market: Chicago