Senior Technologist, Packaging Research & Development, Pet

Your Opportunity as the Senior Technologist, Packaging Research & Development, Pet

 Shape the future of pet food packaging at Smucker! In this hands-on innovation role, you'll develop and launch new packaging solutions that protect product quality, enhance sustainability, and deliver a better consumer experience. Working cross-functionally with suppliers and manufacturing teams, you'll lead package development from concept and testing through commercialization while driving continuous improvement and sustainable packaging initiatives. If you're passionate about packaging technology, problem-solving, and bringing new ideas to life, this is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on iconic pet brands. 🐾

Location: Orrville, OH

Work Arrangements: 100% onsite, M-F

In this role you will:

• Work with team members and suppliers to identify options, evaluate features, and develop prototypes for new packaging to replace existing or for new products.   

• Define and conduct package development fit-for-use testing to ensure technical readiness for product freshness, protection through distribution, and consumer use. 

• Define and execute package testing, commissioning, and qualification for new packaging with suppliers and coffee production plants. 

• Provide innovative ideas leading to the application of new packaging technologies for solving packaging related challenges and optimization opportunities. 

• Develop and approve performance based specifications for packaging materials in PLM system. 

• Support sustainable packaging activities, including: leading eco-modulation projects to improve extended producer responsibility impact, enhancing recyclability of packaging materials and optimizing data tracking and reporting to meet regulatory requirements.

What we are looking for:

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor of Science degree in Packaging, Packaging Engineering, or Packaging Technology, or related technical degree

• 2+ years of experience in packaging development or packaging engineering

• Knowledge of packaging materials, technologies, and applications 

• Understanding of basic package attributes and qualification test procedures

• Experience collaborating across multi-functional and discipline boundaries in a dynamic project environment

• Experience conducting plant and lab trials 

• Ability to travel 15% annually depending on project needs

Additional skills and experiences that we think would make someone successful in this role:

• Experience in the food or beverage industry

• Familiarity with packing line machinery and equipment (ex: flexible pouch, bagging, rigid container filling and sealing, case packing etc.)

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The Right Place for You 

We are bold, kind, strive to do the right thing, we play to win, and we believe in a strong community that thrives together. Our culture is rooted in our Basic Beliefs, and we believe in supporting every employee by meeting their physical, emotional, and financial needs. 

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We're an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, age, national origin, disability status or protected veteran status.