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Contract Packaging Engineer Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Contribute to next generation packaging initiatives and collaborate with suppliers and contract ... Bachelor's degree in Package Engineering/Packaging Science from an accredited university * Proven ...

Contribute to next generation packaging initiatives and collaborate with suppliers and contract ... Bachelor's degree in Package Engineering/Packaging Science from an accredited university * Proven ...

This Engineering Technician role supports packaging design, development, and implementation ... Work with packaging material suppliers and contract packaging vendors to obtain cost estimates ...

... packaging engineering! DDL, Inc. is a third-party testing facility dedicated to helping medical ... Review of test contracts, protocols and associated information. * Communicate with customers on ...

... contract outcomes. Success in this position requires strong attention to detail, sound judgment ... WHAT WE OFFER Wells provides a competitive benefits package designed to support employees' health ...

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Contract Packaging Engineer information

See Minnesota salary details

$19

$41

$65

How much do contract packaging engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract packaging engineer in Minnesota is $41.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32.02 and $48.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contract Packaging Engineer, and why are they important?

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 the most commonly searched types of Packaging Engineer jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Packaging Engineer jobs in Minnesota are:
What are popular job titles related to Contract Packaging Engineer jobs in Minnesota? For Contract Packaging Engineer jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Contract Packaging Engineer jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Packaging Engineer jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Contract Packaging Engineer jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Contract Packaging Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Contract Packaging Engineer job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 61% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,305 per year, or $41.5 per hour.
Advanced Packaging Engineer

Advanced Packaging Engineer

3M

Maplewood, MN • On-site

$95K - $116K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 11 days ago


3M rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 242 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

133rd of 535 rated manufacturers


Job description

Job Description:
Job Title
Advanced Packaging Engineer
Collaborate with Innovative 3Mers Around the World
Choosing where to start and grow your career has a major impact on your professional and personal life, so it's equally important you know that the company that you choose to work at, and its leaders, will support and guide you. With a wide variety of people, global locations, technologies and products, 3M is a place where you can collaborate with other curious, creative 3Mers.
This position provides an opportunity to transition from other private, public, government or military experience to a 3M career.
The Impact You'll Make in this Role
As a(n) Advanced Packaging Engineer, you will have the opportunity to tap into your curiosity and collaborate with some of the most innovative people around the world. Here, you will make an impact by:
  • Develop and implement package designs based on product and stakeholder requirements, including material selection, assembly needs, and clear communication of expectations.
  • Research and select appropriate packaging materials, manage testing activities, and ensure proper documentation, specifications, standards, and regulatory compliance.
  • Manage project timelines and prioritization, and improve existing packaging designs and processes to enhance cost, quality, and efficiency.
  • Contribute to next generation packaging initiatives and collaborate with suppliers and contract packagers to enhance manufacturability.
  • Analyze data and information to solve complex packaging challenges, prepare project scope documentation, and recommend and utilize appropriate internal and external resources.

Your Skills and Expertise
To set you up for success in this role from day one, 3M requires (at a minimum) the following qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree or higher (completed and verified prior to start)
  • Five (5) years of work experience in packaging, manufacturing, industrial design, supply chain in a private, public, government or military environment.

Additional qualifications that could help you succeed even further in this role include:
  • Bachelor's degree in Package Engineering/Packaging Science from an accredited university
  • Proven track record of leading projects
  • Conducts work independently, self-starter/self-directed that leads with energy and passion
  • Ability to work with cross functional teams across multiple functions and disciplines

Work location:
  • Work location: This role follows an on-site working model, requiring the employee to work at least four days a week at the 3M Center in Maplewood, MN.

Travel: May include up to 5-10 %domestic
Relocation: May be Authorized
Must be legally authorized to work in country of employment without sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H1B status).
Supporting Your Well-being
3M offers many programs to help you live your best life - both physically and financially. To ensure competitive pay and benefits, 3M regularly benchmarks with other companies that are comparable in size and scope.
Chat with Max
For assistance with searching through our current job openings or for more information about all things 3M, visit Max, our virtual recruiting assistant on 3M.com/careers.
Applicable to US Applicants Only:The expected compensation range for this position is $95,591 - $116,834, which includes base pay plus variable incentive pay, if eligible. This range represents a good faith estimate for this position. The specific compensation offered to a candidate may vary based on factors including, but not limited to, the candidate's relevant knowledge, training, skills, work location, and/or experience. In addition, this position may be eligible for a range of benefits (e.g., Medical, Dental & Vision, Health Savings Accounts, Health Care & Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts, Disability Benefits, Life Insurance, Voluntary Benefits, Paid Absences and Retirement Benefits, etc.). Additional information is available at: https://www.3m.com/3M/en_US/careers-us/working-at-3m/benefits/.
Good Faith Posting Date Range 07/16/2026 To 08/15/2026 Or until filled
All US-based 3M full time employees will need to sign an employee agreement as a condition of employment with 3M. This agreement lays out key terms on using 3M Confidential Information and Trade Secrets. It also has provisions discussing conflicts of interest and how inventions are assigned. Employees that are Job Grade 7 or equivalent and above may also have obligations to not compete against 3M or solicit its employees or customers, both during their employment, and for a period after they leave 3M.
Learn more about 3M's creative solutions to the world's problems at www.3M.com or on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @3M.
Responsibilities of this position include that corporate policies, procedures and security standards are complied with while performing assigned duties.
Safety is a core value at 3M. All employees are expected to contribute to a strong Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) culture by following safety policies, identifying hazards, and engaging in continuous improvement.
Pay & Benefits Overview: https://www.3m.com/3M/en_US/careers-us/working-at-3m/benefits/
3M does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, religion, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
Please note: your application may not be considered if you do not provide your education and work history, either by: 1) uploading a resume, or 2) entering the information into the application fields directly.
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Please click on the following links and select the country where you are applying for employment to review the applicable Terms of Use (link here) and Privacy Policy (link here). Before submitting your application, you will be asked to confirm your agreement with the terms.

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