Principal Packaging Engineer

SummaryThe Principal Packaging Engineer serves as the senior technical expert for packaging engineering activities across Novus Foods. This role is responsible for the hands-on design, development, optimization, and commercialization of packaging systems that ensure product quality, regulatory compliance, operational efficiency, sustainability, and brand excellence across both branded and private-label portfolios.The Principal Packaging Engineer will assist and potentially lead parts of the development of the packaging strategy and processes, leads complex technical projects, and may oversee a small team of packaging engineers (typically 1–4 direct reports). This role works cross‑functionally with Innovation, Operations, FSQA, Procurement, Artwork & Packaging Operations, and external partners to deliver scalable, cost‑effective, and innovative packaging solutions that support business growth and manufacturing performance.Key ResponsibilitiesServe as the senior technical authority on packaging systems, materials, and equipment, providing hands-on engineering leadership and supporting strategic direction for packaging activities across the organization.Lead the development, testing, and implementation of packaging solutions that support new product launches, renovations, and line extensions from concept through commercialization.Potentially manage and develop a small team of packaging engineers (typically 1–4 direct reports), including goal setting, coaching, technical mentorship, and performance management.Partner cross‑functionally with Innovation, Operations, FSQA, Procurement, and Artwork & Packaging Operations to ensure packaging solutions are scalable, compliant, and manufacturing‑ready.Develop and maintain packaging engineering standards, specifications, and documentation in partnership with the Director of Packaging Engineering to ensure consistency, quality, and regulatory compliance across all facilities.Drive packaging‑related operational improvements, including line efficiency, material optimization, scrap reduction, and performance reliability.Serve as the lead technical engineer on packaging equipment selection, line modifications, plant trials, and capital projects in support of manufacturing needs.Lead packaging risk assessments, root‑cause investigations, and corrective actions in collaboration with FSQA and Operations.Support cost management initiatives by identifying packaging savings opportunities while protecting product integrity, food safety, and brand standards.Collaborate with Procurement to evaluate, qualify, and manage packaging suppliers, converters, and technical partners.Support and help drive packaging innovation and sustainability initiatives, including material reduction, recyclability, and alternative packaging solutions.Stay current on industry trends, emerging technologies, and regulatory developments to continuously advance Novus Foods’ packaging capabilities.Required QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related field.8+ years of progressive experience in packaging engineering within food or consumer packaged goods manufacturing.Deep knowledge of packaging materials, systems, equipment, and manufacturing processes.Proven experience leading packaging development from concept through commercialization.Strong cross‑functional collaboration and technical communication skills, with the ability to influence senior stakeholders.PreferredMaster’s degree in Packaging Engineering or related discipline.2+ years of people leadership or technical lead experience, including mentoring junior engineers.Experience supporting both branded and private-label product portfolios.Exposure to sustainability initiatives and alternative packaging materials.Experience working in multi‑plant manufacturing environments.Ability to build or improve processes related to packaging and engineering. Supervisory ResponsibilityThis role may have 1–4 direct reports and could be responsible for leading and mentoring a small team of packaging engineers.