Demo

Senior Packaging & Process Engineer | Automation, Equipment, and Manufacturing Optimization

Argenta Talent Acquisition
Chicago, IL Full Time
POSTED ON 1/5/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 2/7/2026

Title: Senior Packaging & Process Engineer | Automation & Manufacturing Optimization

Client: Confidential (Argenta Talent Acquisition)

Industry: Contract Logistics & Manufacturing

Impact Level: High - Network Productivity, Packaging Innovation & Equipment Strategy


About the Role:

Argenta is partnered with a leading organization seeking a highly skilled Senior Packaging & Process Engineer to drive engineering excellence across their manufacturing and packaging network. This role blends packaging expertise, equipment engineering, automation leadership, and process optimization to deliver safer, faster, and more cost-efficient operations.

You will play a pivotal role in transforming manufacturing workflows by designing packaging solutions, improving equipment performance, and leading capital and automation initiatives. This position is ideal for a hands-on engineer who thrives in complex environments, collaborates across functions, and enjoys bringing structure, efficiency, and innovation to large-scale operations.


Key Responsibilities:

Process, Equipment & Automation Engineering

  • Develop equipment requirements, specifications, layouts, and flow diagrams using AutoCAD
  • Lead automation and equipment standardization projects across multiple sites
  • Prepare and execute bid packages; evaluate vendor proposals and sourcing decisions
  • Support FAT (Factory Acceptance Testing), site installation, commissioning, and start-up
  • Conduct feasibility studies and equipment comparisons to guide capital investments
  • Improve workflow, space utilization, and throughput through thoughtful layout and process redesign

Packaging Engineering & Product Protection

  • Design, test, and validate packaging to ensure product safety, shelf life, and regulatory compliance
  • Work directly with customers to develop effective, cost-efficient packaging solutions
  • Partner with procurement to develop and maintain packaging specifications
  • Perform package performance testing for film, paper, and hybrid materials
  • Support sustainability efforts through packaging innovation, recyclability, and waste reduction initiatives

Cross-Functional Collaboration & Operational Support

  • Engage operators, vendors, and internal teams to troubleshoot issues and improve processes
  • Provide clear engineering insights to leadership, operations, and project teams
  • Maintain schedules, documentation, and deliverables with cost-efficient execution
  • Support on-site installation and troubleshooting activities across the network
  • Travel approximately 50% to customer sites, plant locations, and vendor facilities


Ideal Candidate Background:

You may be a strong fit if you bring:

  • Experience improving manufacturing operations, packaging performance, or equipment reliability
  • Ability to interpret engineering drawings, layouts, and specifications
  • Curiosity and capability to evaluate new technologies, automation tools, and equipment platforms
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to influence cross-functional teams
  • A hands-on approach paired with analytical thinking and continuous improvement mindset


Requirements:

Education

  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Packaging, Mechanical, Chemical, Industrial, or related field)

Experience

  • 7 years of engineering experience in a manufacturing or packaging environment
  • Proficiency in AutoCAD; experience producing layouts, drawings, and equipment documentation
  • Proven success leading equipment, packaging, or automation projects
  • Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, packaging materials, and performance testing
  • Knowledge of PMO tools (MS Project or equivalent) and proficiency in Microsoft Office
  • Experience with liquid filling equipment, sustainability packaging practices, or capital equipment projects (preferred)
  • Ability to work onsite with regular attendance and travel
  • Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills


Why This Role Matters:

Manufacturing and packaging operations are evolving rapidly, and this role sits at the center of that transformation. You will shape how products move, how equipment performs, and how packaging protects and sustains product quality across a large, complex operations.

Your engineering expertise will directly influence productivity, cost savings, sustainability, and operational excellence. This position offers significant visibility, the opportunity to lead high-impact initiatives, and the freedom to innovate within a growing network.

Our client understands the importance of hiring the right technical leader and is committed to selecting a candidate with the experience, capability, and vision to excel in this highly influential role.

Thank you for taking time out of the busy holiday season to apply. 🎄


EEOC Statement on Behalf of Argenta Clients:

Our clients, represented by Argenta, are committed to providing a fair, inclusive, and merit-based recruitment experience for every candidate. They offer equal employment opportunities to all applicants.

Hiring and interview decisions, including recruitment, evaluation, and advancement - are based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs. Our clients welcome individuals of all backgrounds and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Salary.com Estimation for Senior Packaging & Process Engineer | Automation, Equipment, and Manufacturing Optimization in Chicago, IL
$117,413 to $145,041
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