Packaging Development Manager

Lead the development of rigid plastic, dispensing, and aerosol packaging across a growing portfolio of consumer and industrial products. You own projects end to end — concept, prototyping, tooling, validation, and commercial launch.ResponsibilitiesDevelop bottles, containers, jars, closures, pumps, trigger sprayers, and applicators from concept through commercialization.Develop aerosol packaging systems — cans, valves, actuators, and overcaps — including propellant compatibility and pressurized package performance.Select polymers and substrates (HDPE, PP, PET, LDPE, ABS, SAN, nylon) based on product compatibility, performance, and manufacturability.Drive tooling development, mold qualification, and design for manufacturing (DFM) with injection molding, extrusion blow molding (EBM), and injection stretch blow molding (ISBM) suppliers.Run package validation and performance testing: drop, leak, transportation, pressure and burst, product compatibility, environmental conditioning, and shelf-life.Write engineering specifications, package drawings, and validation protocols.Lead technical reviews, design evaluations, and production readiness with domestic and international suppliers and contract manufacturers.Lead root cause analysis and failure investigations on packaging and line issues.Deliver cost reduction, lightweighting, and value engineering results.Advance sustainable packaging — PCR content, recyclable structures, and refill systems.Ensure compliance with aerosol, transportation, and packaging safety regulations.Mentor packaging engineers and support manufacturing through line trials and launches.Required QualificationsBachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Plastics or Polymer Engineering, Materials Science, or a related technical field.7+ years of packaging development experience.Hands-on rigid plastic packaging and/or aerosol packaging development.Working knowledge of injection molding, blow molding (EBM/ISBM), and aerosol packaging manufacturing.Experience owning tooling development, mold qualification, package validation, and production start-up.Track record managing multiple concurrent projects across engineering, procurement, quality, and marketing.Preferred QualificationsCPG, personal care, beauty, household, industrial, healthcare, or automotive chemical packaging.Aerosol valve and actuator selection, propellant compatibility, and transportation requirements.ASTM, ISTA, and ISO packaging performance standards.CAD — SolidWorks, Creo, or AutoCAD.Lean, Six Sigma, or PMP certification.About This SearchThis is a confidential search conducted by ETHOSLINK Advisory on behalf of an established manufacturer. Company details are shared with candidates during the first conversation.