Packaging Design Specialist - Harvard, IL

Packaging Design Specialist - Harvard, IL
This is a full-time, exempt position.
Job Summary: 
As a Packaging Design Specialist within the CD&D department, you will play a key role in developing innovative packaging solutions that meet the highest standards of quality, sustainability, and efficiency. Your role will involve close collaboration with product development teams, suppliers, and clients to ensure that Packaging Designs are not only visually appealing but also functional and in line with industry regulations and client needs. Additionally, you will be responsible for evaluating and integrating customer-supplied packaging materials into new product developments, understanding the implications and ensuring compatibility with our quality standards and production capabilities.
Responsibilities:

• Packaging Development: Lead the creation and design of packaging structures and projects, focusing on innovation, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness. Develop and maintain packaging specifications and ensure the validation of technical artwork.
• Validation and Testing: Participate in product bagging validations, ensuring that packaging meets the necessary structural and dimensional requirements, product specifications, and is compatible with available machinery.
• Customer-Supplied Packaging Integration: Assess the feasibility of using customer-supplied packaging materials in new developments, understanding the implications on production, quality, and sustainability. Ensure seamless integration of these materials into our packaging solutions, coordinating with clients and internal teams for specifications and standards alignment.
• Innovation Leadership: Drive packaging innovations by researching and implementing the latest trends, materials, and technologies to enhance product appeal and functionality.
• Technical Documentation: Prepare comprehensive technical documents for packaging processes to support efficient filling operations and compliance with regulatory standards.
• Supplier Collaboration: Approve and develop relationships with new packaging suppliers, ensuring they meet our quality standards and sustainability commitments. Work closely with suppliers to optimize packaging solutions and resolve any technical issues.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Industrial Design, Material Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in packaging development, preferably in the pet food industry or a related B2B environment.
• Strong understanding of packaging materials, production processes, and design software.
• Proven ability to evaluate and integrate customer-supplied packaging materials into product developments.
• Excellent project management skills with the ability to lead projects from concept to completion.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Exceptional communication and teamwork abilities, capable of working effectively in cross-functional teams.
• Innovative mindset with a passion for sustainability and eco-friendly packaging solutions.