Packaging Testing Lab Technician

Packaging Testing Lab Engineer Job Description 

Position Summary

The Packaging Testing Lab Engineer is responsible for planning, performing, and analyzing packaging performance tests to ensure product protection, regulatory compliance, and supply-chain readiness. This role supports new product development, quality investigations, packaging validation, and continuous improvement initiatives within the packaging laboratory.

Key Responsibilities

Testing & Analysis

• Conduct standardized tests including but not limited to:
  • Drop testing (Free Fall)
  • Vibration testing
  • Compression testing
  • Burst/ECT testing
  • Climate chamber conditioning
• Conduct standardized packaging performance tests (e.g., ISTA, ASTM, ISO, TAPPI) including transit simulation, environmental conditioning, seal strength, burst/leak, and material characterization.
• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment such as drop testers, vibration tables, compression testers, climate chambers, and data acquisition systems.
• Develop test protocols aligned with customer requirements, industry standards, and internal specifications.
• Detailed test reports generation based on test protocols
• Analyze test data, prepare detailed reports, and communicate results to engineering, quality, and operations teams.
• Ensure safe laboratory practices and adherence to EHS standards.

Quality & Compliance

• Ensure all testing follows applicable regulatory, industry, and customer standards.
• Support packaging validations for new product launches, packaging changes, and supplier qualifications.
• Participate in root-cause analysis for packaging failures looking to improve packaging systems
• Maintain documentation, test records, and equipment calibration schedules in accordance with QA and audit requirements.

Engineering Support

• Collaborate with packaging engineers, R&D, manufacturing, and supply-chain teams to optimize packaging design for performance, cost, and sustainability.
• Assist in material selection, packaging design reviews, and prototype evaluations.
• Provide technical support to resolve packaging issues occurring in production or distribution.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or related field.

Experience

• 2–3 years of experience in packaging testing, quality engineering, laboratory operations, or related fields (internship experience accepted).
• Hands-on experience executing packaging testing protocols such as ISTA series (e.g., ISTA 1A/2A/3A/6A), ASTM standards (e.g., ASTM D4169, D642, D5276, D999), and other relevant industry methods.
• Experience operating packaging test equipment (drop, vibration, compression, climate chambers).
• ISTA certification preferred.

 Skills

• Knowledge of packaging materials (corrugated, flexible films, rigid plastics, foams, pallets).
• Proficiency with testing equipment and laboratory instrumentation.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and performance requirements.
• Ability to read drawings, specifications, and test procedures.
• Strong attention to detail and problem-solving ability.
• Proficiency with MS Excel, Word, and data entry systems.
• Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Ability to manage projects, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines.
• Self-motivated, organized, and safety conscious.

Working Conditions

• Laboratory environment with regular hands-on equipment operation.
• Occasional lifting of packaging samples and materials (typically 25–50 lbs).
• Some travel may be required for supplier audits or testing at external facilities.