R&D Engineer - Flexibles

R&D Engineer

This is a progression position with the level being based on candidate experience and business needs as an R&D Engineer. You will drive technical programs focused on the development of new flexible packaging products and/or technologies. In this role, you will lead all development and technical activities for assigned projects, delivering new packaging solutions to many of the world's most recognized brands. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in polymer and/or paper science, materials engineering, or packaging technology, and a passion for solving complex technical challenges.

What you'll be doing:

• Lead technical activities to develop new flexible packaging structures, capabilities, or technological advancements.
• Translate market or customer requirements into specifications and design products that meet these criteria.
• Develop and lead pilot, production, and filling/packaging trials.
• Interface with business leaders, customers, and external partners to discuss development activities and needs.
• Coordinate activities to accomplish tasks using available internal and external resources.
• Stay current with industry trends, material and process developments, and the competitive landscape to leverage and share that knowledge within the business.
• Build subject matter expertise for key focus areas and act as a consultant within the business for these areas.
• Prepare written and verbal presentations, project plans, updates, and reports for internal and external use.
• Travel to suppliers, customers, and other innovation partners and for conferences, trade shows, or training.
• Collaborate with sales, marketing, supply management, engineering, sustainability, and other functions to identify needs and solutions.

This is an ONSITE position located out of our Charlotte, NC or Chicago, IL (Elk Grove Village) facilities.

We'd love to hear from you if:

• Education: Bachelor of Science, preferably in Engineering, Science, Packaging, or Plastics
• Experience: 5 - 10 years in a Product/Package Development or Manufacturing role. Preferred manufacturing processes include blown film production, extrusion coating and laminating, printing (rotogravure/flexo graphic), pouching, and form/fill/seal conversion. Experience in retort and hot fill applications or the following markets would be a plus: pet food, dairy, coffee, chilled and frozen food, healthcare, or personal care.
• Material science (OPP, PET, PE, Nylon, paper, and foil) knowledge
• New product development, packaging applications
• Project management (multitasking, prioritization, time and budget management, planning and executing)
• Technical writing & oral communication