Technical Engineer - Chemical Engineering / Materials Science

Our client, a growing flexible packaging manufacturer, is seeking a Technical Engineer - Chemical Engineering / Materials Science to support manufacturing process optimization, product development, and continuous improvement initiatives.

The Technical Engineer will work closely with Operations, Quality, R&D, and Commercial teams to optimize manufacturing processes, troubleshoot production challenges, improve material performance, and develop innovative packaging solutions. This hands-on role requires a strong engineering background, technical problem-solving skills, and the ability to lead projects from concept through implementation.

Responsibilities:

• Optimize flexible packaging manufacturing processes, including extrusion, lamination, coating, printing, sealing, and converting.
• Troubleshoot production issues, perform root cause analysis, and implement corrective actions to improve product quality and manufacturing efficiency.
• Analyze and improve material performance, including mechanical properties, barrier performance, and packaging durability.
• Support new product development, material validation, equipment trials, process validations, and manufacturing scale-up activities.
• Conduct material testing and evaluate processing conditions to optimize product performance.
• Ensure compliance with FDA food contact regulations, quality standards, and manufacturing best practices.
• Collaborate with Production, Quality, R&D, and Commercial teams to resolve technical challenges and support customer product performance.
• Drive continuous improvement, waste reduction, cost-saving initiatives, and sustainable packaging solutions.
• Promote safe work practices and sound engineering principles throughout the manufacturing environment.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Polymer Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• 0–5 years of engineering experience in a manufacturing environment; flexible packaging experience is a plus.
• Experience with extrusion, lamination, sealing, converting, or related manufacturing processes preferred.
• Knowledge of polymer processing, material characterization, and mechanical testing.
• Familiarity with food packaging regulations and quality compliance preferred.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and root cause analysis skills.
• Hands-on approach with the ability to work effectively in a manufacturing environment.
• Self-driven, independent, and detail-oriented with excellent problem-solving and communication skills.

Location: Ridgefield Park, NJ (On-site)
Salary: $120K