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Entry Level Packaging Engineer Jobs in California

Entry-level Mechanical Engineer At Salas O'Brien we tell our clients that we're engineered for ... S.-based benefits package, including: * Medical, dental, and vision insurance * 401(k) with company ...

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer At Salas O'Brien we tell our clients that we're engineered for ... S.-based benefits package, including: * Medical, dental, and vision insurance * 401(k) with company ...

Entry Level Electrical Engineer At Salas O'Brien we tell our clients that we're engineered for ... S.-based benefits package, including: * Medical, dental, and vision insurance * 401(k) with company ...

... Entry-level software engineers are expected to bring significant skills and training, and then to ... comprehensive benefits package. Final compensation will be determined based on skills ...

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Entry Level Packaging Engineer information

See California salary details

$19

$41

$66

How much do entry level packaging engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level packaging engineer in California is $41.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32.26 and $48.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level packaging engineer do?

An Entry Level Packaging Engineer is responsible for designing, testing, and improving packaging solutions for products. They collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure packaging is cost-effective, sustainable, and meets industry regulations. Their tasks may include material selection, prototyping, and conducting packaging performance tests. This role helps ensure products are protected during storage and transportation while enhancing user experience and minimizing waste.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level packaging engineer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Packaging Engineer, you need a bachelor’s degree in packaging engineering or a related field, a strong grasp of materials science, and basic knowledge of packaging design principles. Familiarity with CAD software, packaging testing equipment, and sometimes regulatory standards like ISO or ASTM is typical. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork skills help set candidates apart. These competencies ensure that packaging solutions are efficient, cost-effective, and meet quality and safety standards within a collaborative environment.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an entry level packaging engineer?

Entry Level Packaging Engineers are typically involved in designing and testing packaging solutions, collaborating with product development and manufacturing teams, and preparing documentation for packaging specifications. They might also conduct packaging performance tests, analyze material choices, and assist in implementing sustainability initiatives. Regular communication with suppliers and internal teams is common to ensure alignment on project goals and timelines. These activities provide broad exposure to engineering processes and build a foundation for future career growth in the packaging industry.

Are entry level packaging engineers in demand?

Entry level packaging engineers are in steady demand due to the ongoing need for efficient and sustainable packaging solutions across manufacturing and logistics industries. Skills in CAD software, materials science, and industry standards can improve job prospects, especially as companies focus on innovation and cost reduction.

How hard is it to get an entry level packaging engineer job?

Securing an entry-level packaging engineer position typically requires a relevant bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field, along with basic knowledge of packaging materials and design software. Competition can vary depending on location and industry demand, but internships and relevant skills can improve chances of employment.

How to get into entry level packaging engineering?

To enter an entry-level packaging engineering role, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in packaging engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships, developing skills in CAD software, and understanding packaging materials and manufacturing processes can improve job prospects. Certifications such as Certified Packaging Professional (CPP) can also enhance a candidate's qualifications.

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Packaging Engineer jobs in California?

For Entry Level Packaging Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Packaging Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Packaging Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Packaging Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Packaging Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Packaging Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,966 per year, or $41.8 per hour.

Entry Level Packaging Systems Design Engineer I (Start Summer 2027)

Dennis Group

Carlsbad, CA • On-site

$78K - $82K/yr

Temporary

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Description Job Summary Packaging Engineers work closely with our process, controls, and building system engineers to scope, layout, install, and commission packaging equipment lines for our food and beverage industry clients. Dennis Group is a design build engineering firm and general contractor that designs and builds food and beverage processing facilities. As such, our packaging engineers are involved with defining packaging equipment project requirements, estimating packaging equipment costs, creating packaging flow diagrams, providing onsite construction support, and start-up and commissioning of the packaging equipment. As a packaging engineer, your responsibilities will include, but not be limited to: Responsibilities Developing design concepts, estimates and functional specifications for packaging lines Interpreting mechanical design requirements and customer specifications to ensure that all requirements are realized in the design of the packaging system Specification, purchase, installation and commissioning of packaging equipment On-site construction project coordination and management Machine and process design Preparation of machine testing requirements and procedures Preparation of equipment specification, purchase documentation as well as equipment / facility layout Surveying existing conditions Creating packaging flow diagrams Creating material balance Creating packaging matrix Creating equipment lists Assisting with equipment bid packages Understanding size and placement of control/electrical panels Creating design basis documents and scopes of work Producing basis of design documentation Preparation and advisement in manufacturing and packaging design principles including conveyance, wrapping, bagging, cartoning, filling, bottling, case packing and palletizing Assisting in process simulation Providing construction site support Observing rough-in construction compliance and plans, specs, and details (install support team member) Assisting in sanitary design and warehouse design and layout Developing AutoCAD equipment layouts 0-3 years of work experience or schooling in preparation of machine testing requirements and procedures 0-3 years of work experience or schooling in manufacturing and packaging design principles including conveyance, wrapping, bagging, cartoning, filling, bottling, case packing and palletizing 0-3 years of work experience or schooling in machine and process design Researching packaging engineering best practices Supporting talent growth within our organization Required Education Skills and Experience Bachelor's degree in mechanical, packaging, industrial, or manufacturing engineering 0-3 years of work experience or schooling in scope, layout, install, and commissioning of packaging equipment lines. Experience working for professional services, packaging, and food and beverage firms is a plus. Proficiency with MS Office, MS Project, and familiarity with AutoCAD Excellent oral and written communication skills Intellectual curiosity and a positive, can-do, team-oriented attitude Strong problem solving, organizing, and time management skills Must meet Travel Requirement - On-site construction project coordination and management with travel requirements 50%+ of the year Physical Requirements Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer. Must be able to lift-up to 15 pounds at times. Travel Requirement 50%+ travel required to visit project site and other offices. About Us We plan, design, engineer, and build food plants for major brands across the country and the world. For the past three decades, we've focused exclusively on the food and beverage industry, helping your favorite brands put your favorite foods in the grocery store. Simply put, food isn't one thing we do, it's all we do. Dennis Group offers competitive compensation packages commensurate with experience. We provide comprehensive employee benefits including medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, paid time off including an open vacation policy, as well as bonus, profit-sharing, and retirement plans. Dennis Group is proud to provide equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or genetics.