Project Engineer

Job Title: Project/Packaging Engineer

Department: Engineering

Reports to: Engineering Manager

Location: Hybrid or Remote, depending on location: Texas, Wisconsin, Utah, or California (must reside in one of these states)

As a Packaging Engineer, you will be responsible for designing, developing, and implementing packaging solutions specifically for food products. Your role will involve ensuring that packaging meets both functional and aesthetic requirements while adhering to industry standards and regulations. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams, including development, sourcing and manufacturing operations, to create innovative, highly efficient packaging solutions that enhance efficiency, ensure safety and promote company goals.

Essential Functions Include:

• Design and develop packaging solutions for food products, focusing on food packaging equipment and systems.
• Conduct packaging tests to ensure durability, compliance with industry standards, and suitability for food safety.
• Collaborate with product development teams to understand packaging requirements and constraints specific to food products.
• Work with suppliers to source packaging materials, equipment and components suitable for food packaging.
• Optimize packaging designs for cost, sustainability, and efficiency, with a focus on food packaging processes.
• Ensure packaging systems meets regulatory and safety requirements, company priorities, standards and direction.
• Provide technical support and troubleshooting for packaging-related issues in food packaging equipment and systems.
• Stay updated on industry trends and advancements in food packaging technology.

Qualifications Include:  

• Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• 5 years of proven experience in food packaging equipment and systems.
• Subject Matter Expert in food packaging equipment
• Strong knowledge of packaging materials, processes, and equipment used in the food industry.
• Proficiency in CAD software and other design tools.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• Experience with automated packaging systems and machinery.
• Knowledge of food safety standards and regulations, including HACCP and FDA guidelines.
• Ability to conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions for packaging-related issues.
• Experience with project management and the ability to support cross-functional teams.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to interpret data to make informed decisions.
• Familiarity with the latest advancements in food packaging technology and materials.
• Travel required to company facilities and supplier locations, up to 50%.

Food Safety Requirements:  

• Place high priority on food safety, quality, and sanitation by understanding and executing Thrive Freeze Dry’s food safety and sanitation policies and procedures.
• Hold self and others accountable to Thrive Freeze Dry’s food safety & sanitation guidelines and policies by communicating any food safety incident, observation, or opportunity to your leadership team or teammates. 

Physical Requirements – Must be able to perform the following functions with or without accommodations:

• Consistent and reliable attendance
• The usual and customary methods of performing the job's functions require the following physical demands: some lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling;  some stooping, kneeling, crouching, and/or crawling; and  frequent fine finger dexterity. Generally, the job requires the following percentages of time committed to physical activity: 50% or more sitting,  50% or more walking, and  50% or more standing. 
• The job is performed under some temperature variations and in a food manufacturing   production environment. Unrestricted visual and audio abilities are required for the safety of all employees. The ability to lift to 40 lbs. is required.

Salary Range: $90,000 - $120,000 depending on experience, and location.