Description Central Life Sciences is searching for a Packaging Engineer in our Dallas TX location. The Packaging Engineer will serve as a cross-functional partner supporting both manufacturing operations and new product development. This role is responsible for designing, testing, and optimizing packaging solutions that meet brand standards, run efficiently on production lines, reduce costs, enhance sustainability, and ensure regulatory compliance.
The ideal candidate has experience in both hands-on line support and consumer packaging development.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Packaging Design & Development Design, develop, and validate primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging for new and existing products. Create dielines, drawings, prototypes, and technical packaging specifications. Manage artwork, labeling, and print proof processes with suppliers and internal teams. Translate marketing and brand requirements into manufacturable packaging formats.
Manufacturing & Line Support Lead packaging trials on production lines, collect data, analyze performance, and recommend improvements. Troubleshoot packaging-related issues, sealing, fit, durability, material compatibility, and throughput. Collaborate with Operations, Maintenance, and Engineering on equipment setup, qualification, and optimization. Support CAPEX projects involving new or upgraded packaging equipment, e.g., labelers, case packers, banders, palletizers.
Cost, Quality, and Sustainability Drive packaging cost savings through material optimization, light weighting, and supplier refinement. Ensure packaging meets quality standards, transit testing requirements, and durability expectations. Manage packaging complaints and execute root-cause analysis with Quality and suppliers. Support sustainability initiatives, including PCR integration, recyclable materials, and reduced waste designs.
Compliance & Regulatory Ensure packaging complies with regulatory requirements, DOT, EPA, FIFRA, if applicable, and Amazon retail customer specs. Coordinate ISTAASTM performance testing and ensure proper certification for e-commerce channels. Maintain accurate documentation in PLM, ERP, and quality systems.
Supplier & Cross-Functional Collaboration Work directly with packaging converters, printers, corrugate suppliers, and material vendors. Partner closely with Marketing, R&D, Engineering, Supply Chain, Quality, and Operations throughout the product lifecycle. Evaluate emerging materials technologies and automation trends to support innovation.
QUALIFICATIONS
WORKING CONDITIONS
The primary working environment is an office, complete with engineering tools such as a computer, CAD/CAM software, TOPPS data analysis tools, and measuring devices. The secondary environment will be the shop floor, laboratory, machine shop, seminar classroom, or off-site third-party facilities.
BENEFITS PACKAGE & EMPLOYEE PROGRAMS
Central Garden & Pet Company NASDAQ CENT NASDAQ CENT
A understands that home is central to life and has proudly nurtured happy and healthy homes for over 40 years. With fiscal 2024 net sales of $3.2 billion, Central is on a mission to lead the future of the pet and garden industries. The companys innovative and trusted products are dedicated to helping lawns grow greener, gardens bloom bigger, pets live healthier, and communities grow stronger.
Central is home to a leading portfolio of more than 65 high-quality brands, including Amdro, Aqueon, Cadet, C&S, Farnam, Ferry-Morse, Four Paws, Kaytee, Nylabone, and Pennington. The company has strong manufacturing and distribution capabilities and a passionate entrepreneurial growth culture.
Central is based in Walnut Creek, California, with 6,450 employees primarily across North America. Visit www.central.com to learn more.
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law.