Senior R&D Packaging Engineer

Senior R&D Packaging Engineer

The primary responsibility of this position is to work across the WinField United platforms to identify and execute key initiatives that enable a robust packaging supply chain with optimized designs and usage in manufacturing.

This position will also maintain a strong understanding of the sustainability landscape to aid in the development of technical solutions that enable our organizational goals and compliance with regulations.

In total, the individual will lead development, maintenance, and cost optimization of sustainable and technical packaging solutions with a forward-thinking approach.

Product Development (25%): Accountable for all Packaging R&D related activities to support new business objectives to include:


* Product development of packaging from concept/feasibility through commercialization


* Design Validation/Plant Qualification of all new/existing packaging designs.

Regulatory testing (UN/DOT) and maintain records working directly with contract testing labs


* Technical report submission for all related phase-gates project critical path activities related to Packaging development

Drive Cost Savings & Continuous Improvement (25%)


* Work with Sourcing and Suppliers to identify cost reduction opportunities on an annual basis


* Drive SKU/package consolidation efforts


* Travel to manufacturing locations for packaging design and testing analysis


* Identify potential Green Belt/Black Belt projects related to packaging design & processes

Collaboration with Internal & External Partners (20%)


* Work with internal and external partners to develop specifications, documentation, packaging test plans and plant trials


* Work with cross-functional packaging technical experts to identify product line synergies, sku rationalization, etc.

Strategy & Roadmaps (15%)


* Study packaging legislation in the industry, analyze and communicate impact to Land O'Lakes to aid in adapting roadmap strategies accordingly


* Establish and maintain a database of all WinField packaging technical specifications, review & update specifications regularly

Sustainability (15%)


* Conduct front end research and development on sustainable and/or innovation material alternatives that drive value to Land O'Lakes and enable achievement of sustainability goals

Required Experience/Education:


* BS degree in Packaging, Chemical, Industrial, or other Engineering disciplines


* 6 or more years of experience in Packaging Engineering including pressure, storage, hot-cold, stacking, etc.


* Proficient with Microsoft Office applications, Minitab, LCA analyses, and TOPS


* Must be willing to travel 25%


* Background in packaging (chemical preferred)


* Experience in sustainability requirements (preferred)

Required Competencies & Skills:


* Packaging manufacturing and testing equipment expertise


* Able to work cross functionally with peers to accomplish business ...