Packaging Project Manager

Crlia's Frozen Breakfast Business Unit US Waffle is driving an ambitious growth strategy supported by its manufacturing facilities in Liberty, South Carolina and Hazelwood, Missouri. To support continued expansion and product innovation at our Liberty facility, we are seeking a skilled and driven Packaging Project Manager to join our team. We are looking for a hands-on, technically strong, and highly collaborative professional who will serve as our internal expert on packaging materials and lead packaging-related R&D and improvement initiatives. This role is ideal for someone who combines deep knowledge of packaging materials and food applications with strong project management capabilities and a practical, plant-focused mindset.

This is not a purely strategic role. The Packaging Project Manager will be highly engaged on the production floor, working closely with packaging equipment specialists, operations teams, and suppliers to test, validate, and implement new packaging solutions. The role requires the ability to translate testing data into clear, actionable recommendations that drive results. The successful candidate will lead packaging innovation projects, support material optimization efforts, and collaborate cross-functionally to improve packaging performance, cost efficiency, and sustainability. This position plays a key role in supporting operational excellence, product quality, and continuous improvement across the facility. This strategic position will report directly to the Director of R&D and Business Development of the Frozen Breakfast Business Unit.

• Packaging Expertise and Material Strategy
• Project Management and R&D
• Testing, Validation, and Implementation
• Continuous Improvement and Optimization
• Cross-Functional Collaboration and Reporting

• Drive High Performance
• Collaborate
• Can-do attitude
• Innovate
• Accuracy and Attention to Detail

• Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Food Science, Materials Science, Engineering, or related field preferred.
• Equivalent combination of education and relevant experience may be considered.

• 37+ years of experience in packaging, preferably within food manufacturing or consumer goods.
• 3+ years progressive project management experience required.
• Proven experience managing projects and leading cross-functional initiatives.
• Experience working in a manufacturing environment and supporting plant operations.

• Basic understanding of food labeling regulatory requirements.
• Strong knowledge of packaging materials, food packaging requirements, and testing methods.
• Familiarity with packaging equipment, line trials, and commercialization processes.
• Knowledge of sustainability trends and recyclable/alternative materials is a plus.
• PMP or other project management certification is preferred.

• Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data and drive decisions.
• Effective communication and ability to influence without direct authority.
• High degree of proficiency in MS Office Suite, Outlook & Internet applications.
• Strong documentation and follow-through.
• Strong analytical, prioritizing, interpersonal, problem-solving, presentation, budgeting, project management (from conception to completion), & planning skills

Physical/Working Conditions & Decision-Making Authority Physical/Working Conditions

• Regular presence on the manufacturing floor.
• Ability to walk the facility, climb stairs, and stand for extended periods.
• May occasionally lift up to 25 pounds.
• Must be able to wear required PPE and work in production environments with noise, temperature variation, and moving equipment.
• May work flexible hours to support trials, testing, and project implementation.

Decision-Making/Authority

• Recommends packaging materials, specifications, and process improvements.
• Leads packaging-related project decisions within scope.
• Has authority to initiate and coordinate trials and testing activities.
• Escalates risks, delays, and major decisions to leadership as needed.

Success Profile A successful Packaging Project Manager:

• Drives packaging projects from concept to successful implementation.
• Improves packaging performance, cost efficiency, and sustainability.
• Builds strong partnerships with operations, engineering, and suppliers.
• Translates technical data into practical, plant-ready solutions.
• Brings a balance of technical expertise and hands-on execution to the manufacturing floor.