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 Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
- 3–7 years of packaging engineering experience in manufacturing, automotive, industrial equipment, aftermarket, or logistics.
- Experience supporting distribution center or service parts packaging operations.
- Hands‑on experience with automated bagging and boxing systems.
- Proficiency with SAP, AutoCAD/SolidWorks, and Microsoft 365.
- Knowledge of ISTA testing and small‑parcel shipping requirements.
- Strong project management and continuous improvement experience.
- Lean Six Sigma Green Belt (preferred).
- Experience with WMS‑linked packaging automation (preferred).
- Knowledge of SAP and labeling standards (preferred).
- Sustainability or returnable packaging experience (preferred).
- Experience with branding or artwork development (preferred).
- Strong problem‑solving and analytical skills.
- Effective cross‑functional communication and influence.
- Data‑driven decision making.
- Ability to manage multiple projects.
- Continuous improvement mindset.
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.