Packaging Engineer (Food Manufacturing)

Packaging Engineer (Food Manufacturing)

Majors: Packaging, Packaging Engineering, Packaging Science

Established in 1988, United Foods International (USA), Inc. has been specialized in custom food manufacturing of sauces, seasonings and dry mixes for retail, wholesale, food service and industrial needs for over 35 years. We are currently looking for qualified candidates for our entry-level Packaging Engineer position at our Phoenix, AZ location. This position requires BS degree in Packaging, Packaging Engineering or Packaging Science with a strong focus on food manufacturing. 

Job Summary:

Working closely with customers and Sales, R&D and Operations teams, the Packaging Engineer leads package design development, optimization and cost-saving initiatives, and supports commercialization of new products. Must have knowledge and/or experience in developing packages for different types of food items, such as dry seasonings, sauces, frozen food and high acidity products. 

 Job Responsibilities: 

• Develops and maintains packaging specifications for customer specific food products (pouches, bottles, trays, film, cartons, labels, etc.)
• Selects appropriate materials for each product based on the product characteristics (acidity level, oil content, moisture, frozen/chilled/dry), manufacturing processes (hot fill, retort, cold fill, frozen/chilled/dry), distribution environment, shelf life requirement and how the product is handled/packaged at customer site
• Supports new product launches, cost saving projects and packaging change requests from customers
• Ensures packaging compliances with FDA and customer requirements
• Constantly searches for alternative packaging materials and suppliers (domestic and overseas), contributing to cost reduction and supply chain optimization
• Understands our production machinery and equipment specifications and packaging capabilities in order to increase production efficiency and yield 
• Communicates with customers regarding packaging feasibility, design, improvement and optimization
• Works with Production and Maintenance teams to troubleshoot packaging issues during production
• Attends meetings and trainings as needed
• Other duties will be assigned

Qualifications:

• BS in Packaging, Packaging Engineering or Packaging Science with a food manufacturing packaging focus 
• Knowledge and/or experience in food products package design 
• Must have strong engineering and materials science knowledge including:
• Structural design and material selection for packaging durability and safety
• CAD software such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks
• Understanding of regulatory compliance, sustainability and cost-efficiency 
• Problem-solving and root cause analysis for packaging failures or production inefficiencies
• Attention to detail for precise design, material specification and compliance with regulatory requirements and industry standards
• Adaptability to new materials, technologies and consumer trends
• Must be able to collaborate with other departments and strong communication skills to interact with customers