Job description
At ApexPack Innovations, we design and manufacture high-performance packaging solutions for consumer goods, e-commerce, and healthcare products. We seek a proactive Senior Packaging Engineer to lead packaging strategy from concept to commercialization. This role blends materials science, mechanical design, and cross-functional collaboration to deliver cost-effective, sustainable packaging that protects product quality while optimizing supply chain efficiency. Based in Chicago, IL, you will partner with R&D, sourcing, manufacturing, and quality teams to drive packaging performance, reduce waste, and accelerate launches.
We offer a premium, fast-paced environment where innovation is rewarded. If you're passionate about materials, design for manufacturability, and sustainable packaging, we'd love to hear from you.
Responsibility
- Lead end-to-end packaging development from concept through commercialization, including feasibility assessment, prototyping, testing, and qualification.
- Collaborate with R&D, manufacturing, and supply chain to select materials and structures that meet performance, cost, and sustainability targets.
- Own packaging validation plans (functional, drop, vibration, and transit testing) and document results in controlled records.
- Develop and maintain packaging specifications, bill of materials, and supplier requirements; drive changes using formal change control.
- Lead design-for-manufacture and design-for-sustainability initiatives; optimize packaging to reduce material usage and waste.
- Manage external suppliers and packaging contractors; oversee vendor audits and QA activities.
- Support NPI launches by creating packaging timetables, risk assessments, and pilot run plans.
Qualification
- Bachelor’s degree in Packaging, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field; Master’s preferred.
- 5+ years in packaging engineering or design for packaging in consumer goods or healthcare sectors.
- Strong knowledge of packaging materials (films, paper, corrugate, foams), converting processes, and barrier properties.
- Experience with CAD (SolidWorks, CADworx, or similar) and packaging simulation; familiarity with DOE and statistical analysis.
- Proven track record in packaging validation, regulatory considerations (FDA, GMP familiarity).
- Excellent project management and cross-functional collaboration skills; ability to manage multiple programs concurrently.
- Strong communication skills and supplier management experience; able to influence stakeholders at all levels.
- Knowledge of sustainability initiatives and circular packaging concepts preferred.