R&D Packaging Engineer

Role details

Job Title: R&D Packaging Engineer

Location: Morton Grove, IL

Department: Research & Development (R&D North America)

Reports To: Sr. Director R&D Americas

Position Overview

We are seeking a skilled R&D Packaging Engineer to lead technical packaging initiatives for internal and external client product developments. In this role, you will bridge marketing concepts and industrial execution—managing compatibility studies, packaging specifications, line trials, and vendor collaborations. You will play a pivotal role in establishing standard packaging offerings for R&D North America, ensuring products meet aesthetic, functional, regulatory, cost, and timeline requirements.

Key Responsibilities

Technical Development & Industrialization

• Translate marketing packaging concepts into technically industrialized products.
• Select appropriate packaging substrates, materials, and components (primary, secondary, and tertiary) in collaboration with R&D Formulation Chemists based on customer briefs.
• Lead compatibility studies with R&D Stability/Compatibility Technicians, preparing reports of conformity for approval by the Packaging Manager.
• Create palletizing plans and establish source documentation (feasibility costing sheets, package profiles, tooling specifications, and component specs).
• Input and maintain packaging specifications and approved supplier data into COPTIS, transferring data seamlessly to technical transfer teams.

Execution, Testing & Quality

• Fully own technical milestones and packaging specifications within project timelines to ensure on-time validations.
• Execute and oversee packaging testing (shipping, compatibility, chemical resistance, etc.).
• Review and approve technical drawings and color submissions.
• Support finished goods manufacturing capabilities by attending line trials and overseeing first production runs to evaluate component impact on plant efficiency.
• Recommend packaging process SOPs and maintain compliance with global cosmetic regulations as they relate to packaging.

Cross-Functional Collaboration & Innovation

• Partner with formulation chemists, project managers, tech transfer, procurement, and package suppliers to ensure project objectives are met.
• Communicate project status updates directly to the R&D Project Manager.
• Stay current on packaging and product innovation trends, technology advances, and material science developments.
• Provide technical support as a subject matter expert and mentor packaging associates and interns.

Qualifications & Preferred Experience

• Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Packaging Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• Experience:
• 3+ years of packaging engineering experience with a technical degree, OR
• 5+ years of proven packaging engineering experience, ideally within the Cosmetics or Personal Care sectors.
• Technical Knowledge: Strong understanding of material science (plastics, glass, cartons, printing, and decoration techniques) and global packaging regulations.
• Systems: Familiarity with R&D databases/software (e.g., COPTIS) and general IT systems is preferred.

Key Competencies

• Technical Autonomy: Ability to function independently with minimal to medium supervision in a fast-paced environment.
• Global Collaboration: Comfortable working within international, multi-disciplinary teams and global supplier networks.
• Project & Risk Management: Ability to drive multiple project streams simultaneously, assess technical risks, and develop effective mitigation plans.
• Communication & Relationships: Strong interpersonal and organizational skills with an ability to build trust and collaborate effectively across departments.
• Core Values: Demonstrates entrepreneurship, innovation, integrity, human sensitivity, and a passion for action.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

• Fast-paced, open floor plan workspace.
• Requires standing, walking, sitting at a desk/computer, and local/regional travel as needed for supplier meetings and line trials.

What we offer

Competitive salaries, comprehensive health/vision/dental insurance, company paid short term disability, company paid life and accidental death insurance, 401(k) plan match of 4.5% with immediate vesting, generous employee referral program, paid vacation annually, paid holidays annually, onsite cafeteria, job advancement opportunities. Manufacturing employees also receive company paid work shoes, uniforms and prescription safety eyeglasses.