Job Information
Spindrift Packaging Engineer in Newtonville, Massachusetts
The Packaging Engineer will report to the Senior Director of Manufacturing & Quality and will be the internal expert on all packaging related projects and responsibilities. As the Packaging Engineer, you will be an integral part of a team focused on quality, procurement, innovation, efficiency, and cost saving initiatives. This role is cross functional in nature, working closely with internal teams consisting of Quality & Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Innovation, Marketing, Sales, and Finance as well as several external co-packer and repack partners across the United States.
Responsibilities
The core responsibilities of this role are to be the internal expert on all packaging-related matters.
Packaging Quality and Specifications
Lead packaging material qualifications and support Manufacturing & Quality Departments on vendor quality audits.
Lead identification and resolution of packaging material complaints and issues as required.
Coordinate testing as required at third party laboratories or co-packing partners.
Develop and maintain Packaging Material Specifications and documentation for assigned projects.
Develop and maintain packaging test methods and operational procedures.
Rigorously investigate packaging material deficiencies, develop corrective actions, and follow through on implementation of corrective actions.
Packaging Material Vendor Relations
Serve as key technical point of contact for package material vendors (cartons, corrugate, aluminum cans, etc.).
Support Sourcing, Innovation, and Supply Chain initiatives for supply continuity and risk management by providing input to RFP process and conducting new vendor qualifications.
Assist in identifying and vetting potential suppliers.
Develop quality scorecards for each packaging vendor.
Innovation
- Work with innovation team to manage the development and commercialization of new packaging materials, technologies, and systems.
Co-packer & Repacker Liaison
Support Spindrift’s network of external, 3rd party primary fillers / copackers located across the country with packaging and packaging equipment related issues.
Lead the commissioning of and provide ongoing support of Spindrift’s re-packing partners.
Identify opportunities for capital improvement projects at third parties and lead projects.
Cost Savings
Lead the identification and implementation of Gross Margin improvement opportunities related to packaging materials and packaging operations.
Understand the performance versus cost implications of packaging materials and identify alternatives.
Internal Packaging Expert
Stay abreast of new technologies through networking, trade shows, and professional organizations.
Identify and exploit new packaging technologies to bring competitive advantage and/or superior consumer experience.
Serve as lead for sustainable packaging activities and customer scorecard requirements.
Requirements
Skills:
Effectively participates in cross-functional teams.
Strong project management skills.
Ability to collaborate and build relationships with internal & external teams.
Passion for process development and continuous improvement.
Ability to work independently.
Attention to detail with good follow through.
Strong technical and analytical skills.
Ability to prioritize and manage multiple high priority objectives.
Experience/Qualifications
Bachelor of Science in Packaging/Packaging Science or related field.
3-5 years of experience within the beverage industry.
Broad base packaging material knowledge including aluminum cans, labels, corrugated cartons, paperboard cartons and carriers, adhesives, and stretch film. Aluminum can experience is a must.
Experience and exposure to a variety of high-speed beverage packaging equipment including de-palletizers, rinsers, fillers, pasteurizers, labelers, case packers, and palletizers.
Travel
- 25% travel required. Boston based preferred but not required.
Benefits
The salary range for this position is $80,000 to $100,000 and is dependent upon the candidate’s experience prior to joining Spindrift. In addition, we offer the following compensation and benefits:
Short-term and long-term incentive programs specific to level and department
Medical, dental, and vision insurance, with a current employer contribution rate of 80% towards monthly premiums, regardless of plan type selected
Company-paid life insurance, and a 401k retirement savings plan
Monthly cell phone allowance
Annual allowances for personal use of Spindrift product, health and wellness, professional development, and social justice education
A host of voluntary benefits including but not limited to additional life insurance, short-term disability and long-term disability insurance, pet insurance, commuter benefits, etc.
In addition to any paid leave benefits required by regulation, the company provides paid parental leave, vacation, sick, personal, bereavement, community service, and holiday time.