Packaging Engineer | Plainwell, MI

Salary Range: $69,000 - $108,000 depending on experience

Are you a dynamic leader with a passion for excelling in packaging engineer? The Pivot Group Network, a West Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is dedicated to building meaningful connections and supporting community growth. We are collaborating with leading companies in Plainwell seeking experienced Packaging Engineers to drive results.

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 collaborate with manufacturing companies in the Plainwell region seeking Packaging Engineers. These employers partner with us because they want real insight into candidates—not just resumes. By joining our network, you gain access to roles worth considering.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and test packaging for new and existing products.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate packaging with product design and manufacturing processes.
• Evaluate and select appropriate packaging materials and equipment for optimal performance and cost-effectiveness.
• Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions for packaging-related issues.
• Develop and maintain packaging specifications, standards, and testing protocols.
• Identify and implement continuous improvement initiatives for packaging processes and materials.
• Ensure all packaging complies with relevant industry standards, regulations, and customer requirements.

Recommended Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related technical 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 knowledge of various packaging materials (e.g., plastics, paperboard, flexibles) and their manufacturing processes.
• Experience with packaging equipment, automation, and line integration.
• Strong understanding of packaging test methods and industry standards (e.g., ISTA, ASTM).

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with SolidWorks or other CAD software for packaging design.
• Familiarity with sustainable packaging materials and practices.
• Knowledge of ISTA or ASTM packaging test methods.
• Project management experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Lean Six Sigma certification or experience with continuous improvement methodologies.

Job Titles That Should Apply

Packaging Engineer, Packaging Development Engineer, Packaging Specialist, Packaging Technologist, Packaging Scientist, Senior Packaging Engineer, Principal Packaging Engineer, R&D Packaging Engineer, Manufacturing 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.