Candy Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Perfetti Van Melle (makers of Mentos, Airheads, Dentyne, Trident and Bubblicious!) is one of the world's largest manufacturers and distributors of confectionery and chewing gum with global brands that are being enjoyed in more than 150 countries worldwide. We're currently seeking a passionate and enthusiastic Packaging Engineer to join our growing team.

The Packaging Engineer II manages the full packaging lifecycle for Trident, Dentyne, Bubbalicious, and Mentos Gum across PVM North America, supporting packaging innovation, design, material specifications, and supplier-level artwork management. The role partners cross-functionally with marketing, sales, production, supply chain, finance, R&D, and customer service to deliver innovative, cost-effective packaging solutions and resolve packaging issues across manufacturing, logistics, and consumer use.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage supplier-level artwork to ensure packaging meets digital and print specifications for branded items
• Develop detailed packaging specifications from dielines through finished printed materials to ensure quality and value
• Evaluate and recommend innovative packaging materials, systems, and technologies for current and future applications
• Specify new package designs supporting product launches, promotions, and performance enhancements
• Provide technical support to plants, co-packers, and co-manufacturers, including quality testing and manufacturing troubleshooting
• Collaborate with external packaging, merchandising, and design experts; lead packaging and in-store display design
• Support retail execution and analyze consumer and purchasing trends
• Travel 10-20% domestically and internationally to assess supplier capabilities, manage pre-press operations, and share best practices
• Maintain timely communication with key internal stakeholders-marketing, sales, production, and supply chain-and translate business needs into technical specifications

• 3-5year'sprior experience in each phase of the packaging development process, from concept to the consumer interaction. Proven involvement with the creation of innovative designs. Examples of collaborative team participation.
• Bachelor's degree with internship experience required. Packaging Engineer degree preferred.
• MS Office Application experience is required
• SAP experience preferred
• Experience with artwork processes associated with printed packaging which includes:
• Strong knowledge of color and ways to measure.
• Understanding of Flexographic, Rotogravure, Digital and Offset print processes.
• Strong interpersonal skills is a must as this person will communicate with internal and external stakeholders.
• Technical expertise in materials traditionally used for CPG items.
• Experience translating concept drawings to technical die lines.
• Ability to communicate requirements for product design and a curiosity in applying new materials or structures to our industry.
• Emphasis on materials of construction for various primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging used. Must have strong working knowledge of the production of materials and their use at the factory through to the retailer.
• High attention to detail is required

At Perfetti Van Melle, we are committed to fostering a welcoming workplace, where all individuals, regardless of background or identity, are valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives to the sweet success of our candy-loving community. Additionally, we have a core value of Care For Our People and we are proud to offer benefit programs that support our team members' goals and well-being including:  

• PTO package including vacation, sick, personal, and pay it forward time off
• 13 paid holidays
• 401k with Company Match up to 8%, ranking in the top 1% of the country
• Annual Bonus potential and merit-based increases
• Comprehensive Health Insurance
• Annual well-being subsidy
• 20 weeks Maternity & 12 weeks Paternity leave options
• Sam's Club or Costco annual membership reimbursement
• Tuition-Free College Program or Free Continued Education (BA, Masters, etc.)
• Modest monthly candy allotment
   

The anticipated target range for this role is: $75,000-105,000 per year.

Position level may be elevated to Packaging Engineer II or Senior Packaging Engineer based on experience and qualifications.

Perfetti Van Melle considers a variety of factors when determining base compensation, including experience, qualifications, and geographic location. These considerations mean actual compensation will vary.

Perfetti Van Melle, USA is an equal opportunity/non-discrimination employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.