Packaging Engineer | Grand Rapids, MI

Salary Range: $71,000 - $110,000 depending on experience

Are you a dedicated professional with a passion for excelling in packaging engineer? The Pivot Group Network, a West Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is committed to fostering meaningful relationships and supporting career growth. We partner with leading manufacturing companies in Grand Rapids, seeking experienced Packaging Engineers to strengthen their teams.

We are building our network of talent in this field across West Michigan and the broader manufacturing region Pivot Group Network serves. Our partner companies may or may not have an immediate opening for this exact role today, but we actively look for skilled professionals in the regions where they operate. If there is alignment now or in the near future, we reach out.

The Opportunity

We are collaborating with multiple companies in Grand Rapids seeking experienced Packaging Engineers. These organizations value long-term fit and are looking for professionals who bring both skill and alignment. By joining our network, you gain access to opportunities tailored to your goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and test packaging for new and existing products.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including R&D, manufacturing, and marketing, to define packaging requirements and specifications.
• Optimize packaging designs for cost-effectiveness, manufacturability, sustainability, and product protection.
• Conduct packaging material selection, testing, and qualification to ensure compliance with quality and regulatory standards.
• Develop and maintain packaging documentation, including specifications, drawings, and test protocols.
• Troubleshoot and resolve packaging-related issues on the production line.
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives for packaging processes and materials.
• Stay current with industry trends and advancements in packaging technology and materials.

Recommended Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• 3+ years of experience in packaging development or engineering within a manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) for package design and analysis.
• Demonstrated understanding of various packaging materials, their properties, and manufacturing processes (e.g., plastics, paperboard, glass).
• Experience with packaging test methods and standards (e.g., ASTM, ISTA).
• Strong problem-solving skills with a focus on optimizing packaging for cost, sustainability, and manufacturability.

Bonus Qualifications

• Proficiency in SolidWorks or other CAD software for packaging design.
• Experience with sustainable packaging materials and practices.
• Familiarity with automated packaging machinery and systems.
• Knowledge of ISTA or ASTM packaging test methods and standards.

Job Titles That Should Apply

Packaging Engineer, Packaging Development Engineer, Packaging Specialist, Packaging Technologist, Senior Packaging Engineer, Principal Packaging Engineer, Packaging R&D Engineer, Packaging Innovation Engineer, Materials and Packaging Engineer, Supply Chain Packaging Engineer

Why The Pivot Group Network

The Pivot Group Network was founded by manufacturing professionals who've been on both sides of the hiring process. Our clients are strategic—they partner with us because they want real insight into their roles and the people filling them, not a stack of resumes. We focus on match-driven placements built around what actually matters: Commute, Compensation, Culture, and Career trajectory. Learn more at https://www.thepivotgroup.org.

If you're ready to take the next step in your career and connect with a firm that values fit over speed, we invite you to reach out at https://www.thepivotgroup.org. The Pivot Group Network offers resources to support your search—market insights, resume feedback, and interview preparation. As our partnerships grow, we'll reach out with opportunities aligned with your goals. Thank you for considering this approach to career advancement.