Packaging Engineer

We are seeking a Packaging Engineer to lead the rigid plastic tray productivity and sustainability agenda. This role involves optimizing the Biscuit tray portfolio to deliver savings and reduce material. You will collaborate with suppliers to implement changes, assess manufacturing processes and quality systems, and commercialize new tray designs in our bakeries. Additionally, you will focus on material optimization for other packaging components such as paperboard cartons, corrugated cases, and flexible films.

Responsibilities

• Lead and maintain an agenda for projects in Productivity Commercialization, Pipeline Building & Scoping, and Sustainability, starting with rigid plastic trays and expanding to other packaging forms.
• Execute productivity programs across the manufacturing network in Mexico, US, and Canada, covering products like Biscuits, Chocolate, and Candy.
• Support programs from concept initiation through commercialization, developing timelines, risk assessments, and contingency plans.
• Commercialize robust performance-based specifications and improve content quality through technical understanding of Packaging Specifications.
• Follow the I2M process for assigned projects and maintain communication with key stakeholders.
• Participate in project update meetings and provide accurate status updates.
• Lead plant trials for packaging materials with cross-functional teams, ensuring proper planning, coordination, and documentation.

• Experience in package development and plant trial execution in the commercialization process.
• Technical skills with the ability to learn quickly and execute independently.
• 3-5 years of experience, preferably in the food industry, with a proven track record of successful plant trials.
• Strong team player with the ability to represent the technical organization.
• Ability to find technical solutions during packaging qualification on production lines.

• Experience in thermoforming and working with rigid plastic trays.
• Knowledge of packaging materials in the food industry.

The East Hanover site hosts approximately 400 employees, with most working a hybrid schedule of 2-3 days onsite per week and remote options on Mondays and Fridays. While the preference is for candidates to come onsite one day a week, fully remote candidates will be considered if they are the right fit. Employees and consultants enjoy free lunch Monday through Friday.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of East Hanover, NJ.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $43.26 - $70.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job
classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be
subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits
available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a hybrid position in East Hanover,NJ.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Dec 3, 2025.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

Salary : $43 - $70