Principal Packaging Engineer, R&D

Title: Principal Packaging Engineer, R&D
Location: New York, NY
Working Model: On-site, 5 days per week
Industry: Apparel 
Salary: $100,000 – $120,000 (Salary is commensurate with experience and is an estimated range provided by JPSearch.)

Responsibilities:

• Lead packaging research and development, focusing on innovation and strategic direction.
• Manage all phases of packaging projects, ensuring alignment with business objectives.
• Oversee development, costing, and execution of packaging solutions.
• Introduce packaging innovations from vendors and market research.
• Ensure adherence to project timelines and deliverables.
• Assess and mitigate risks related to materials, printing, and structural integrity.
• Support sustainability initiatives and cost-effective packaging solutions.
• Review and maintain material specifications to ensure quality and consistency.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Packaging, Design, Merchandising, Sourcing, and Production.
• Manage vendor relationships and global packaging sourcing efforts.
• Improve process efficiencies and track packaging development through PLM and other tools.
• Provide regular status reports and oversee packaging sample tracking.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Packaging, or a related technical field.
• 12+ years of experience in packaging development and industry, including new product introduction.
• Strong leadership and stakeholder management skills.
• In-depth understanding of global packaging standards and cost-effective solutions.
• Experience working in fast-paced environments with tight deadlines.
• Proficiency in dielines, color management, and global print factory operations.
• Technical proficiency in PLM, Adobe Creative Cloud, Microsoft Office, and Airtable (preferred).
• Knowledge of POS (point-of-sale) display packaging.