Job description
Join MetroPack Industries as a Packaging Engineer in Chicago. This role leads the design, development, and optimization of packaging for a diverse range of consumer goods. You will collaborate with R&D, Manufacturing, Quality, and suppliers to deliver packaging solutions that protect product integrity, reduce cost, and advance sustainability goals.
We offer a premium, growth-focused environment with a competitive compensation package, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career advancement.
Responsibility
- Design and develop packaging concepts across primary, secondary, and tertiary levels for new and existing products.
- Optimize packaging for cost, weight, protection, and sustainability while meeting regulatory and ISTA testing standards.
- Create and maintain packaging specifications, bills of materials (BOMs), and change controls; manage versioning and documentation.
- Collaborate with R&D, supply chain, QA, and suppliers to plan and execute packaging tests and validation activities.
- Lead supplier qualification, audits, and ongoing performance management for packaging materials and equipment.
- Support scale-up and tech transfer for new product launches and line extensions.
- Drive sustainability initiatives such as recyclability, recycled content, and reduction of single-use plastics.
Qualification
- Bachelor degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
- 3+ years of packaging design or engineering experience in CPG or manufacturing environments.
- Strong knowledge of packaging materials (plastics, paperboard, corrugated), coatings, adhesives, and barrier properties.
- Experience with 3D CAD tools (SolidWorks, Creo) and packaging data management (ERP/MRP).
- Familiarity with ISTA testing protocols and practical experience in design of experiments (DOE) is a plus.
- Excellent cross-functional collaboration, communication, and project management skills; able to manage multiple projects concurrently.
- Commitment to sustainability and continuous improvement in packaging performance and cost.