Packaging Engineer - Salina, KS

Great Plains Manufacturing is seeking an experienced Packaging Engineer to join our team in Salina, KS. This position is an integral part of the organization’s Product Development Process and helps to design, test, and implement packaging designs.

This position works Monday through Thursday from 6:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and reports to the Director of Facilities. 

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

• Oversee and manage complete packaging development process, including the creation of packaging designs, prototype development, and performance testing.
• Troubleshoot new and existing packaging problems involving designs, materials and processes and provide creative, timely, and cost-effective solutions.
• Analyze engineering drawings and specifications of product to determine physical characteristics of item, special handling, environmental and safety requirements, and types of materials required for packaging.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Participate in product introduction teams, to deliver new products to market.
• Identify and implement cost saving initiatives related to packaging materials, labor, efficiency, transportation, and storage.
• Work closely with Engineering to optimize packaging supply base for cost, lead time, quality, regionalization, standardization, supply assurance, and compliance with customer, regulatory, and internal requirements.
• Specify and recommend efficiency tools and test methods to develop and validate packaging designs.
• Work with the manufacturing department to insure the packaging designs are optimized for manufacturability, including safety, quality, efficiency and cost considerations.
• Develop and implement comprehensive test plans to ensure that packaging exceeds customer specifications.
• Works in conjunction with the Manufacturing, Product Engineering, Purchasing, and Shipping departments.
• Other duties may be assigned that require other qualifications, physical demands, and/or work environment.

Required Skills and Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Packaging Engineering or 5 years of experience in manufacturing environment or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• 5 years of experience in industrial or consumer packaging strongly preferred 
• Knowledge and understanding of packaging design validation standards (ISO, ASTM, etc.), drafting and specification standards is essential 
• Demonstrable proficiency in 3D CAD software is needed
• Problem solving and decision-making skills are necessary
• Must be able to work independently and as part of a team
• Excellent oral and written communication skills 
• Understanding of process and quality improvement concepts is required
• Proven track record of project management 

At Great Plains Manufacturing, our people make the difference, making our company a great place to work and grow. If you are self-motivated, have a passion to succeed and value teamwork, we invite you to apply to join our team. For over 45 years, Great Plains Mfg, has been known as a world-class manufacturer of agriculture, farm and landscaping equipment in Central Kansas. Now a Kubota company, we have recently added a new construction equipment division. With over 2,300 dedicated employees, Great Plains Manufacturing continues its dedication toward innovation and professional growth, while maintaining our family culture and community values. Grow with us! Visit our Careers page at www.WorkForGPM.com.