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Contract Packaging Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Kane is Able

SR Industrial Engineer

Joliet, IL · Hybrid

$41.50 - $56.50/hr

In this role you will combine engineering, data analysis, customer engagement, and project ... and contract packaging facilities. The position plays a key role in designing and redesigning ...

Diageo

Packaging Technical Development

Plainfield, IL · On-site

Please note that this is a 12 month Contract position that will offer full time hours and an ... Bachelor of Science degree in Packaging Engineering, Packaging Science, Engineering, or a related ...

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All JobsContract Packaging Engineer JobsContract Packaging Engineer Jobs in Illinois

Contract Packaging Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$19

$41

$64

How much do contract packaging engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract packaging engineer in Illinois is $41.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.68 and $47.74 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a contract packaging engineer do?

A Contract Packaging Engineer specializes in designing, developing, and managing packaging solutions for products, often working for third-party companies that handle packaging for clients. They ensure that packaging meets safety, regulatory, and branding requirements while optimizing for cost and efficiency. Their role may involve selecting appropriate materials, testing package durability, and coordinating with manufacturers and logistics teams. These engineers also help streamline the packing process to improve productivity and reduce waste, making them essential for companies looking to outsource their packaging needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract packaging engineer?

To thrive as a Contract Packaging Engineer, you need a strong background in packaging design, materials science, and manufacturing processes, often supported by a degree in engineering or packaging science. Familiarity with CAD software, packaging testing equipment, and regulatory compliance tools is typically required. Strong project management, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with clients and cross-functional teams. These competencies ensure innovative, cost-effective packaging solutions that meet client specifications and industry standards.

What are some common challenges faced by contract packaging engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Contract Packaging Engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to diverse client requirements, managing tight project timelines, and ensuring cost-effective packaging solutions while maintaining quality and compliance. To address these, engineers need strong project management skills, effective communication with both clients and internal teams, and a solid understanding of regulatory standards. Proactively staying updated on packaging technologies and regularly collaborating with cross-functional teams can also help streamline processes and ensure successful project delivery.

What is the difference between Contract Packaging Engineer vs Packaging Technician?

AspectContract Packaging EngineerPackaging Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering, packaging, or related field; certifications like PMP or Six Sigma beneficialHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical training or certifications preferred
Work EnvironmentDesign, plan, and oversee packaging projects; collaborate with manufacturing and quality teamsOperate packaging machinery; perform packaging tasks on production lines
Industry UsageUsed across manufacturing, consumer goods, and pharmaceutical industries for project managementCommonly found in production facilities handling daily packaging operations

The Contract Packaging Engineer focuses on designing and managing packaging projects, requiring engineering knowledge and project management skills. In contrast, the Packaging Technician handles the hands-on operation of packaging equipment, ensuring daily production runs smoothly. Both roles are essential in the packaging process but differ in scope, responsibilities, and required qualifications.

Are contract packaging engineers in demand?

Contract packaging engineers are in demand due to the growing need for efficient packaging solutions across industries such as pharmaceuticals, food, and consumer goods. Their expertise in process optimization, equipment, and compliance makes them valuable, especially in companies seeking flexible staffing and specialized packaging projects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Packaging Engineer jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Packaging Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Contract Packaging Engineer jobs in Illinois?

For Contract Packaging Engineer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Contract Packaging Engineer jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Contract Packaging Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Contract Packaging Engineer jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Contract Packaging Engineer job openings:

Contract Packaging Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Packaging Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,390 per year, or $41.1 per hour.

Packaging Engineer

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Romeoville, IL

$135K - $145K/yr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Packaging Engineer
Location: Romeoville, IL
Hire Type: Contract-to-Hire, Onsite
Target Pay Rate: $65.00 - $70.00/hour (on contract) | $135,000–145,000/year (upon conversion)
Benefits: PTO, paid holidays, BCBS medical plans, dental/vision plans, 401(k), & ESOP program

Must-Have Skills:
  • Packaging engineering experience within cosmetics, personal care, or consumer packaged goods (CPG)
  • Experience developing primary and secondary packaging solutions
  • Strong understanding of packaging materials including plastics, glass, aluminum, and paperboard
  • Packaging testing experience including compatibility, stability, transport, and line trials
  • CAD software proficiency (SolidWorks, ArtiosCAD, or similar)
  • Strong project management and cross-functional collaboration skills

Job Summary:
Seeking a Packaging Engineer to lead the design, development, testing, and commercialization of innovative packaging solutions for cosmetic and personal care products. This role will partner with Product Development, Marketing, Quality, Supply Chain, and external suppliers to deliver packaging that meets brand, performance, regulatory, and manufacturing requirements while supporting sustainability and cost-saving initiatives.

Job Duties:
  • Design and develop primary and secondary packaging components including bottles, jars, tubes, pumps, caps, cartons, and labels
  • Translate product, consumer, and branding requirements into functional packaging solutions
  • Lead packaging projects from concept through commercialization
  • Conduct packaging feasibility studies and manage development timelines
  • Perform packaging validation and testing, including compatibility, drop, leakage, compression, and transportation testing
  • Support supplier qualification and onboarding activities
  • Develop packaging specifications, drawings, BOMs, and technical documentation
  • Provide technical support during manufacturing scale-up, validation, and product launch activities
  • Troubleshoot packaging issues related to manufacturing, filling, and distribution processes
  • Drive cost reduction, sustainability, and packaging performance improvement initiatives
  • Stay current on packaging innovations, materials, and industry trends

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or related field required
  • 2–5+ years of packaging engineering experience preferred
  • Familiarity with cosmetic filling operations and manufacturing processes
  • Knowledge of FDA, ISO, ASTM, and packaging regulatory requirements preferred
  • Experience with sustainable packaging initiatives, including recyclability and PCR materials, is a plus
  • Experience working with overseas suppliers is preferred
  • Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma experience is a plus
  • Strong communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills


Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.