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Contract Packaging Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Quality Manager

Batavia, IL · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Collaborate with Operations, Supply Chain, Engineering, and Commercial teams to support customer ... Co-manufacturing or contract packaging experience preferred Minimum Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

Quality Manager

Batavia, IL · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Collaborate with Operations, Supply Chain, Engineering, and Commercial teams to support customer ... Co-manufacturing or contract packaging experience preferred Minimum Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

... Engineering, Sustainability, and Product Safety leadership to ensure continued adoption and ... edge contract packaging and manufacturing solutions. As a privately held conglomerate, we ...

Partner with the Director of Procurement to manage contract compliance throughout the supplier ... Ability to collaborate across Engineering, Procurement, Construction, Legal, Finance, and ...

Quality Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$45 - $60/hr

Quality Engineer Location : Chicago, IL (Ravenswood area) Hire Type : 1+ year long contract Hybrid ... As a contract employee of Sterling, you are eligible to receive a Full Employee Benefits Package ...

Senior Analyst, Contracts

Chicago, IL · On-site

$72K - $93K/yr

Invenergy is North America's largest privately held developer, owner, and operator of power ... In addition to base pay, the total annual compensation package may also include eligibility to ...

Invenergy is North America's largest privately held developer, owner, and operator of power ... In addition to base pay, the total annual compensation package may also include eligibility to ...

Senior Analyst, Contracts

Chicago, IL · On-site

$72K - $93K/yr

Invenergy is North America's largest privately held developer, owner, and operator of power ... In addition to base pay, the total annual compensation package may also include eligibility to ...

Showing results 21-40

Contract Packaging Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$20

$43

$69

How much do contract packaging engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract packaging engineer in Chicago, IL is $43.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.65 and $50.77 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 Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Packaging Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What job categories do people searching Contract Packaging Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Contract Packaging Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Contract Packaging Engineer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Contract Packaging Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Contract Packaging Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,776 per year, or $43.6 per hour.

Packaging Machine Operator Trainer

Fresh Express

Streamwood, IL • On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Fresh Express rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

275th of 443 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

The PMO Trainer position is responsible for developing line operators in all aspects of the operations of packaging equipment. They will facilitate training material and tests and provide leadership, direction and support while assuring completion of the daily production schedule. The Trainer will ensure adherence to the safety, quality, cost and efficiency standards.

Primary PMO Lead Trainer Responsibilities:

  • On floor & classroom training for all PMOs
  • Schedule Clean, Inspect, Lubricate process
  • Troubleshoot mechanical problems
  • Coordinate & monitor multiple bagger operations to assure maximum productivity & timely completion of production schedule
  • Maintain all packaging related documentation
  • Direct all operators to achieve 100% startup of all packaging equipment
  • Review all operator's daily paperwork
  • Provide input to develop individual & department goals
  • May be asked to conduct one on one reviews with PMOs
  • Act as a leader & support teamwork
  • Plans and executive work
  • Run machines through breaks & lunches
  • Strong interpersonal skills in working with supervisors, managers, & crew leaders
  • Responsible for adherence to GMP policies, quality standards, production guidelines & safety huddles
  • Understands all Quality Control tests
  • Pass all Continuous Skills Development training for all levels of PMO
  • Works safely and follows all basic safety rules to help prevent accidents
  • Successfully pass Safety Training provided by the Continuous Skills Development Program
  • Assures Quality products are being produced
  • Occasionally directs other positions than PMOs (i.e. packers)
  • Complete all required documentation
  • Competent at completing Clean, Inspect, Lubricate process
  • Ability to learn packaging machine operational programming
  • Develop methods to minimize rework
  • Routinely plans & executes work

Required Qualifications/Skills:

  • Must be able to speak, read and write English.
  • Must be able to serve as SME for multiple operations across lines and variety of machines
  • Must be effectively lead and train in both Healthy Snacking and Salad Manufacturing
  • Must be able to participate in Process Improvement efforts to improve efficiencies and minimize down time
  • Must be able to understand and interpret production work orders
  • Must be able to demonstrate effective leadership, coaching and training abilities in formal and informal settings
  • Must be able to lift 50 pounds.

Experience: Must be a PMO A and been in PMO A position for one year

Other Information:

The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees, and are not to be construed, as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified. Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the employer.


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