Packaging Project Manager

• Serve as the internal subject matter expert on packaging materials.
• Define and promote best practices for packaging material selection based on product protection, shelf life, manufacturability, cost, and sustainability.
• Evaluate new packaging technologies and recommend improvements aligned with business goals.
• Partner with procurement to identify, evaluate, and qualify new materials and suppliers.

• Lead packaging-related R&D and improvement projects from concept through commercialization.
• Develop and manage project timelines, milestones, and deliverables.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams to ensure successful execution of projects.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

• Work closely with packaging equipment specialists and plant teams to execute line trials and testing activities.
• Design and oversee packaging trials including performance, shelf-life, and transportation testing.
• Analyze test results and translate findings into clear, actionable next steps.
• Ensure successful implementation of packaging changes into production.

• Identify opportunities to improve packaging performance, reduce cost, and enhance sustainability.
• Drive initiatives to optimize material usage, reduce waste, and improve efficiency.
• Support troubleshooting of packaging-related issues on the production floor.

• Partner with operations, engineering, quality, procurement, and suppliers to support packaging initiatives.
• Communicate project updates, risks, and results to leadership.
• Maintain accurate documentation for formulas, trials, specifications, test protocols, observations, and project progress.
• compliance with food safety, quality, and regulatory requirements related to packaging.

• Drive High Performance: Establishes clear accountability for outcomes. Demonstrates focus and discipline in planning and execution. Acts with speed, agility and demonstrates a sense of urgency to keep momentum.
• Collaborate: Builds and maintains strong relationships and makes commitments to others and follows through. Actively listens and communicates openly. Engages constructively in debates. Supports and executes decisions once made.
• Can-do attitude: Demonstrates a positive, solution-focused approach, actively seeks out opportunities to improve processes, and readily tackles challenges with resilience and enthusiasm. Thrives in dynamic environments and is motivated by delivering impactful results.
• Innovate: Challenges the status quo by pro-actively identifying opportunities for improvement. encourages sharing best practices, creativity, and experimentation; learns from setbacks and adapts quickly.
• Accuracy and Attention to Detail: Exhibits precision and thoroughness, consistently producing reliable work. Demonstrates diligence in reviewing data, identifying discrepancies promptly, and ensuring adherence to high standards of quality and compliance.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Engineering, Food Science, Materials Science, Engineering, or related field preferred.
• Equivalent combination of education and relevant experience may be considered.

Experience

• 3–7+ years of experience in packaging, preferably within food manufacturing or consumer goods.
• 3+ years progressive project management experience required.
• Proven experience managing projects and leading cross-functional initiatives.
• Experience working in a manufacturing environment and supporting plant operations.

Knowledge and Certifications

• Basic understanding of food labeling regulatory requirements.
• Strong knowledge of packaging materials, food packaging requirements, and testing methods.
• Familiarity with packaging equipment, line trials, and commercialization processes.
• Knowledge of sustainability trends and recyclable/alternative materials is a plus.

• PMP or other project management certification is preferred.

Skills and Competencies

• Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data and drive decisions.
• Effective communication and ability to influence without direct authority.
• High degree of proficiency in MS Office Suite, Outlook & Internet applications.
• Strong documentation and follow-through.
• Strong analytical, prioritizing, interpersonal, problem-solving, presentation, budgeting, project management (from conception to completion), & planning skills

• Regular presence on the manufacturing floor.
• Ability to walk the facility, climb stairs, and stand for extended periods.
• May occasionally lift up to 25 pounds.
• Must be able to wear required PPE and work in production environments with noise, temperature variation, and moving equipment.
• May work flexible hours to support trials, testing, and project implementation.

• Recommends packaging materials, specifications, and process improvements.
• Leads packaging-related project decisions within scope.
• Has authority to initiate and coordinate trials and testing activities.
• Escalates risks, delays, and major decisions to leadership as needed.

• Drives packaging projects from concept to successful implementation.
• Improves packaging performance, cost efficiency, and sustainability.
• Builds strong partnerships with operations, engineering, and suppliers.
• Translates technical data into practical, plant-ready solutions.
• Brings a balance of technical expertise and hands-on execution to the manufacturing floor.

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