Join our operations team where you will be influential in shaping our business strategy and ensuring we have the most effective operations. Be your own boss by creating your own career path and pushing your professional limits. General Summary The Packaging Specialist Trainee is responsible for developing comprehensive knowledge of Packaging solutions for customers by designing and building packaging and similar products that meet customer specifications and specific performance specifications. Works under close direction of an assigned mentor; exercises discretion and judgment on work priority on a regular basis; and a degree of creativity is expected. Principal Duties and Responsibilities Develops a comprehensive knowledge of Company products and procedures through on-the-job training activities. Develops a comprehensive knowledge of panel and lumber grades Develops a comprehensive knowledge of alternative and complementary packaging materials such as cardboard, wood-plastic composites, plastics, rubber, foam, etc. Develop knowledge of lumber math. Demonstrate a full understanding of cuts and yields related to lumber. Develop expertise in the efficient use of other materials in packaging design. Develop expertise on the efficient yields of various other materials; Works with production teams to learn machinery and equipment capabilities. Develops knowledge and abilities to design and create computer generated prints, and to design industrial packaging solutions to address customer needs. Learns how to operate the Company’s business system in order to perform required administrative functions. Learns how to cost products designed as packaging solutions. Develops working knowledge on Continuous Improvement and efficiency standards. Develops an understanding on supply contacts and the Purchasing department. Develops an understanding of technical standards such as ISTA, ASTM, and APA. Completes courses and assignments as directed by the Exec. VP of Manufacturing. Prepares various reports as required. Performs other duties as required. Knowledge Associates or Bachelor’s degree in Packaging (School of Engineering) or closely related field. Business majors and others will be considered if they can demonstrate some level of education in packaging/engineering basics, and demonstrate a strong desire to work in the packaging design field. Proficiency in the use of MS Excel/spreadsheets is required; working knowledge of drawing/design software (ArtiosCAD/Autocad/Solidworks) is preferred, but can also be developed on the job with appropriate aptitude demonstrated. Skills and abilities Proficiency in the use of the English language in reading, writing and speaking Ability to identify new products and manufacturers. Ability to successfully interact with all organizational levels, customers and the public Ability to work with customers and make quality presentations on packaging solutions Ability to apply business math to manufacturing processes. Ability to recognize value in various products and be able to utilize them in the manufacturing of new products. Ability to physically make product samples based on design (should receive safety training related to the equipment and machine to be used in making product samples.) Demonstrate ability to develop and maintain strong customer relationships Requires superior analytical, problem solving and engineering skills/aptitude. Ability to manage several activities/projects at once, to organize and prioritize work, to meet deadlines, to prepare plans, goals and budgets. Ability to be mobile in the work environment, travel as required. Ability to use a computer, and proficiency in the use of MS Office and other business related software. Ability to pass a drug test The Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Please watch our welcome video below to learn more about UFP Industries! Wondering what the companies of UFP Industries are all about? We're successful. We've been around for more than 65 years, and we've been profitable every year since our founding. We work hard, and we know how to set and beat records. We're competitive. Our line of work is demanding, but you'll get back what you put in and have fun doing it. We're family. We care for each other and want to see each other succeed. We enjoy watching each other build great careers and take advantage of the many opportunities we have to advance. And that makes UFP Industries a great place to be. We work hard and smart. We learn and grow from each other, from experience, from trial and error, from success. We collaborate to maintain our competitive edge. And we do it all on a global scale.