Packaging Engineer

Family owned and operated, Bake'n Joy Foods, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of top-quality bakery products that began over eighty years ago in 1941. We manufacture a variety of products for professional bakers including frozen scoop batters, predeposited muffin, cornbread, loaf cakes and Boston Coffee Cakes, mixes as well as an expanding line of fully baked items such as coffee cakes, loaf cakes and more. We remain committed to providing top quality products, service, and value to our customers.

STAFFING AGENCIES AND RECRUITING FIRMS - PLEASE DO NOT CONTACT BAKE'N JOY FOR THIS ROLE

Packaging Engineer

Reports To :

• Senior Materials Manager, Procurement
JD Review Date :
• August 2024

Job Summary / Objective : The Packaging Engineer is responsible for designing, testing, and implementing innovative packaging solutions for our food products. This role involves ensuring packaging safety, quality, and sustainability while optimizing costs and efficiency. The ideal candidate will possess a strong technical background in packaging materials, processes, and machinery, and will be a creative problem-solver.

The role will report directly to the Senior Materials Manager in Bake'n Joy's Procurement organization, working closely with our packaging suppliers on a day-to-day basis. The role will also work closely with BNJ's R&D team and the Director of Engineering, with a "dotted line" to both parties.

Essential Functions :

• Design and Development :

Together with BNJ suppliers, develop innovative packaging designs that protect and preserve food products during transportation and storage.

• Conduct feasibility studies and prototype development for new packaging concepts.
• Collaborate with product development teams to ensure packaging aligns with product specifications and brand standards.
• Testing and Validation :

Perform packaging tests to evaluate durability, functionality, and compliance with industry regulations.

• Analyze test results and make recommendations for improvements.
• Ensure all packaging meets food safety standards and regulatory requirements.
• Optimization and Cost Efficiency :

Identify opportunities for cost reduction and process improvements in packaging materials and methods.

• Work with suppliers to source cost-effective, sustainable packaging materials.
• Implement packaging technology and design improvements that enhance efficiency.
• Support BNJ's engineering department in launching key packaging automation projects.
• Project Management :

Lead packaging projects from concept to implementation, ensuring timelines and budgets are met.

• Coordinate with cross-functional teams, including production, engineering, quality assurance, and logistics, to execute packaging projects.
• Maintain documentation and records related to packaging specifications and changes.
• Sustainability :

Develop and promote sustainable packaging solutions that minimize environmental impact.

• Stay updated on industry trends and innovations in sustainable packaging.
• Compliance and Quality Assurance :

Ensure all packaging complies with FDA, USDA, and other relevant regulations.

• Conduct regular quality audits and inspections of packaging suppliers, including their processes and materials.

Competencies :

• Knowledge of packaging materials, processes, and machinery.
• Proficient in CAD software and packaging design tools.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• Experience with sustainable packaging practices.

Supervisory Responsibilities :

• This position does not initially have direct supervisory responsibilities but may lead project teams.

Work Environment :

• Work is performed in an office and manufacturing environment.
• Exposure to moderate noise levels and varying temperatures.

Physical Demands :

• Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods.
• Occasionally lift and move up to 25 pounds.
• Manual dexterity required for operating packaging machinery and handling materials.
Position Type :
• Full-Time

Work Hours :

• Typical hours are Monday to Friday, 8 : 00 AM to 5 : 00 PM. Flexibility required for production schedules and deadlines.

Travel :

• Occasional travel to suppliers and industry events is required.

Required Education & Experience :

• Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• 3-5 years of experience in packaging engineering, including working with suppliers.

Preferred Education & Experience :

• Proficiency with ERP systems and Microsoft Office 365.

Additional Eligibility Items :

• Strong knowledge of packaging materials, processes, and machinery.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Equal Employment Opportunity Policy

Bake'n Joy provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.