Job description
Join Aurora Packaging Innovations as a Packaging Engineer in Chicago, IL. You will lead end-to-end packaging development for consumer products, balancing performance, cost, and sustainability.
We are looking for a collaborative problem-solver who can translate product requirements into packaging concepts, validate designs through testing, and collaborate with suppliers and manufacturing teams to deliver packaging that protects product integrity while minimizing waste.
Responsibility
- Lead the design and optimization of packaging concepts from concept through production release, ensuring packaging integrity and cost targets.
- Collaborate with R&D, procurement, and manufacturing to select materials and translate packaging drawings into production-ready specifications.
- Develop and execute packaging tests (drop, vibration, sealing, compatibility, shelf-life) and document results to support qualification and release.
- Drive cost reduction and sustainability initiatives, including material substitutions, tool-free closures, and recyclability improvements.
- Own labeling, regulatory compliance, and packaging-related documentation for target markets.
- Plan and execute trials and pilot runs in manufacturing, analyze data, and implement improvements.
- Lead cross-functional packaging projects, manage timelines, risks, and supplier relationships to meet business goals.
Qualification
- Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
- 5+ years of experience in consumer packaging development, with demonstrated expertise in packaging design or process optimization.
- Strong knowledge of materials science, packaging performance testing, and specification writing.
- Proficiency with CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks) and package simulations; experience with FMEA and DFMA.
- Experience with sustainability-focused packaging, recyclability, and life cycle considerations.
- Excellent communication, project management, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
- Familiarity with GMP, regulatory standards, and supplier management processes.