Titel:  Packaging Engineer

Role Purpose

We are currently seeking a talented Packaging Engineer to join our dynamic Research and Development team and our Cross-Functional Packaging End to End Team. In this role, you will spearhead a variety of packaging initiatives from concept to execution, including ideation, concept development, prototyping, factory trials, and in-market product monitoring.

Your primary responsibility will be leading Packaging Customization/Co-pack projects, developing innovative retail or channel solutions for our product portfolio. Additionally, you will support other innovation or cost-reduction projects by providing packaging expertise, such as validating trials and finalizing specifications. You will also maintain and expand a catalogue of customization solutions for the European market.

Responsibilities & Accountabilities

• Lead multiple packaging customization projects and programs, ensuring compliance with company and retailer requirements and quality standards.
• Propose technical solutions and optimize customization solutions in collaboration with suppliers, co-pack functions, and markets.
• Establish test plans and coordinate feasibility, stability, and functionality testing.
• Qualify executions at co-packers.
• Maintain and develop a portfolio of customization solutions for key products.

Knowledge, Skills, and Experience

Education and Experience

• Preferred: Degree in Packaging Technology or equivalent technical knowledge.
• Essential: Previous experience in a Packaging Development or related role.

Technical Competencies

• Strong understanding of packaging development, materials, and processes.
• Knowledge of packing line equipment, machinery commissioning, line performance, and packaging performance standards.
• Familiarity with packaging components and materials used in packaging structures.
• Experience in organizing, reporting, and leading packaging trials to validate potential solutions.
• Ability to review data and apply statistical methods to draw conclusions and make recommendations.
• Demonstrated troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in English is required. For employment in Belgium, proficiency in Dutch is a plus; for employment in Poland, proficiency in Polish is a plus.

Leadership, Communication & Other Capabilities

• Clear and concise communicator with the ability to work effectively both independently and in a team environment.
• High levels of proactivity and achievement drive.
• Highly diligent, self-motivated, and enthusiastic with a positive approach.
• Logical, pragmatic, and process-driven with the ability to think quickly and adapt.
• Strong rapport-building abilities with negotiation and influencing skills.
• Excellent time and project management skills with a winning mindset.
• Ability to identify potential margin improvement initiatives.
• Firm and confident in upholding quality image standards.

Organisation Structure

• Reports to Lead Packaging Designer, Masterplan & Optimization.

Dimensions

• No direct reports.
• Deliver the pipeline of co-pack customization projects in line with portfolio, brand, and packaging strategies.
• Support other innovation or cost-reduction projects to meet the master plan requirements.

Relationships

Internal:

• R&D Packaging & Food teams
• Co-pack team
• Warehouse teams
• Plants & Supply Chain
• Project Management
• Quality
• European Engineering
• Marketing

External:

• Packaging Suppliers
• Machine Suppliers
• 3rd party warehouse and logistic partners

Work Environment

• Based at Mechelen Plant, Belgium, Kutno Plant, Poland or Manchester Plant, UK with extensive travel expected up to 40% of the time. Travel may require working outside of normal business hours, including weekends, and includes the UK & Europe.
• Travel to and work in manufacturing or test facilities are integral parts of this role.

Applications can be submitted until 20/09/2024. Selection interviews will take place at the end of September and beginning of October.