Sr. Packaging Engineer II

Senior Packaging Engineer II

Department: Research & Development

Reports To: Sr. Packaging Manager

FLSA Status: Exempt

Location: Mizkan Schaumberg Office (MSO)

Shape the Future of Packaging Innovation

Join Mizkan America's dynamic R&D team and lead packaging innovation across our Flavor Enhancers and Meal Solutions portfolio. You'll work on iconic brands like Mizkan, Nakano, Bertolli, Ragu, Holland House, Angostura, and Zing Zang — driving design, development, and commercialization of packaging that delights consumers and delivers business impact.

What You'll Do

As a senior member of our Packaging Engineering team, you will:

Lead packaging design, testing, and commercialization for our amazing brands: Mizkan, Nakano, Angostura, Zing Zang, Bertolli, Ragu, and Private Label

Develop robust project plans and qualification protocols aligned with commercial timelines.

Mentor junior engineers, guiding test plans and technical reviews for first-time success.

Collaborate cross-functionally to improve margins, product quality, and packaging performance.

Own and maintain accurate packaging specifications, partnering with Quality and Operations.

Execute plant trials at Mizkan factories and co-manufacturers.

Present technical Stage Gate reviews and project updates to leadership.

Drive packaging process improvements and contribute to department vision and capability building.

Qualifications

Bachelor's or Master's in Packaging Engineering, Polymer Science, or related field.

7–10+ years of experience in consumer goods, food, or pharmaceutical packaging.

Proven track record of bringing innovative products or technologies from concept to commercialization.

Knowledge:
Expertise in packaging materials and equipment: Glass, PET, corrugate.

Strong understanding of hot fill and retort processes for food packaging.

Experience with TOPS or CAPS palletizing software; CAD is a plus.

Familiarity with PET bottle blow molding and preform design (required).

Skills:
Certifications like CPP or PMP are a plus.

Knowledge of sustainability practices and regulatory compliance (FDA, ISO, ASTM).

Strong project management, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Ability to work collaboratively and manage multiple high-complexity projects in a fast-paced environment.

Willingness to travel up to 40%.

Why Mizkan America?

Work with beloved brands and cutting-edge packaging technologies.

Be part of a collaborative, cross-functional team that values innovation and impact.

Enjoy opportunities for professional growth, mentorship, and leadership.

The annual base salary for this position ranges from $115,000 to $130,000.

Compensation is based on a number of factors including market location and may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills and experience. Short-Term Incentive and other forms of compensation may also be provided as part of a total compensation package.

A full range of medical, dental, vision, 401K plus up-to-four percent (4%) match, profit sharing, wellness program, paid parental leave, long-term-care insurance, critical accident insurance, short- and long-term disability and education assistance are also available.