What are the responsibilities and job description for the Packaging Engineer position at Kubota?
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About Kubota
Kubota builds equipment that supports the work and livelihoods of people across North America — from compact tractors to construction equipment and turf care solutions. Our Service Parts Distribution Network ensures customers and dealers receive the parts they need quickly and reliably.
Overview
The Packaging Engineer designs, improves, and implements packaging solutions for Kubota Tractor Corporation’s Service Parts Distribution Network. This role supports multiple distribution centers and focuses on packaging design, automation, sustainability, and continuous improvement.
What You’ll Do
- Create packaging specifications that meet distribution center and carrier requirements.
- Design packaging for a wide range of parts, including small, irregular, and fragile items.
- Standardize bagging, boxing, labeling, and protective packaging to reduce damage and improve consistency.
- Conduct ISTA/ASTM testing and transit simulations, including drop, vibration, and compression testing.
- Implement automated packaging systems such as auto‑baggers and boxing equipment.
- Improve pick/pack workflows and support WMS‑integrated packaging automation to enhance OEE and labor productivity.
- Lead Lean initiatives to improve safety, quality, cost, and operational consistency.
- Reduce packaging costs through right‑sizing, material optimization, and cartonization.
- Support sustainability goals by introducing recyclable/reusable materials and reducing single‑use plastics.
- Ensure compliance with EPR, RoHS/REACH, ISPM‑15, and other regulatory requirements.
- Manage relationships with packaging suppliers, automation OEMs, and integrators.
- Support packaging needs for new model launches and distribution center improvements.
What We Are Looking For
- Bachelor’s degree in Packaging, Industrial, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
- 3–7 years of packaging engineering experience in manufacturing, automotive, logistics, or industrial environments.
- Hands-on expertise in distribution/service parts packaging operations, including automated bagging, boxing, and packaging automation systems.
- WMS-integrated packaging automation experience, sustainability/returnable packaging knowledge, and branding or artwork development experience.
- Strong project management, problem-solving, and continuous improvement skills, with the ability to lead multiple initiatives and make data-driven decisions.
- Proficient with SAP, AutoCAD/SolidWorks, Microsoft 365,
- Proficient with packaging standards such as ISTA testing and small-parcel shipping requirements.
- Strong project management, problem-solving, and continuous improvement skills, with the ability to lead multiple initiatives and make data-driven decisions. Preferred; Lean Six Sigma Green Belt
Kubota is an equal opportunity at will employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of age, race, religion, color, disability, sex, sexual orientation or national origin.