Industrial Design & Development Manager

SUMMARY

The Industrial Design & Development Manager will play a key role in driving end-to-end packaging innovation across research, design, development, and production for the Happier brand.

This role will lead packaging initiatives from initial concept and material research through design execution, technical development, and final production, ensuring both aesthetic excellence and operational success.

This role is on site 5 days a week in our NYC office and reports to the CEO/Co-founder.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead packaging research, design, development, and production execution across all products and initiatives
• Conduct research on emerging materials, sustainability innovations, supplier capabilities, and industry trends to inform packaging strategy
• Partner with key team members to continually deliver innovative and differentiated packaging solutions for the category and brand
• Collaborate with creative teams to translate brand vision into effective packaging design, including structure, materials, color, and decoration
• Drive the technical development of packaging systems, ensuring feasibility, manufacturability, and scalability
• Oversee the transition from design through development into production, ensuring seamless execution with suppliers and manufacturers
• Ensure all packaging meets design intent, quality, cost, functionality, regulatory, safety, sustainability, and production requirements
• Provide expertise in process engineering, production readiness, and commercialization for new product launches and dual sourcing initiatives
• Evaluate packaging samples, prototypes, and materials through testing, validation, and production trials
• Manage relationships with packaging suppliers and contract manufacturers to ensure accurate specifications, production quality, and on-time delivery
• Drive continuous improvement and innovation in packaging performance, cost efficiency, and sustainability
• Support company efforts on social and environmental responsibility through sustainable material research and production practices
• Build strong cross-functional partnerships to align packaging initiatives with company strategy and long-term growth
• Provide updates on project milestones across research, design, development, and production phases, including risks and mitigation plans
• Deliver technical solutions that support timeline adherence, cost optimization, and product quality

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

• BS degree in Packaging Science or Engineering
• 3-5 years’ experience in food package development; Concentrated experience in food industry
• Comprehensive knowledge of global supplier community and understanding of pricing structures
• Demonstrated understanding of manufacturing and distribution process as it relates to supporting targeted and global product launch strategies
• Experience working with Global suppliers across multiple time zones
• Able to create package specification, fill and assemblies, and control plan
• Technical competency in analysis of geometric objects in 2- and 3-dimensions including understanding of form, fit, and function of packaging components and subcomponents
• Comprehensive knowledge of materials used in the construction and manufacturing of primary, secondary and tertiary packaging
• Knowledge of test methods used to validate component/package performance
• Strong knowledge of sustainable packaging and supplier practices, including knowledge of post-consumer recycled materials, recyclability, etc
• PC literate and competent with Microsoft Office applications (especially Excel and Pivot table functionalities).
• Knowledge of CAD software and/or PRO E Creo and 3D printing
• Effective written and verbal communication skills. Ability to convey strategy and results to executive teams and stakeholders.
• Ability to analyze data and use insights for decision-making.
• Ability to pivot and address challenges in a constantly evolving industry. Innovative problem-solver open to change and continuous improvement.
• Customer- and end-user–oriented perspective
• Demonstrates humility, sound judgment, and respect for cross-functional expertise
• Unwavering commitment to ethics, integrity, and high professional standards