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Packaging Development Manager Jobs in Cleveland, OH

Lead the design and development of folding carton packaging solutions from concept through ... Manage multiple design projects simultaneously while meeting quality and delivery expectations.

In this leadership role, you'll manage a team of talented Structural Designers while partnering ... Structural Packaging DesignLead the design and development of folding carton packaging solutions ...

We value our employees by offering a competitive benefit package including: * Commission and bonus ... POSITION SUMMARY Learning & Development Manager Partnering with the Senior Director of Learning and ...

We value our employees by offering a competitive benefit package including: * Commission and bonus ... POSITION SUMMARY Learning & Development Manager Partnering with the Senior Director of Learning and ...

Segment Development Manager

Westlake, OH · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

Position is responsible for the management, coordination and development of new professional ... The Company also offers a comprehensive benefits package as described above. Actual compensation ...

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Packaging Development Manager information

See Cleveland, OH salary details

$32K

$75K

$128.8K

How much do packaging development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for packaging development manager in Cleveland, OH is $74,987.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,600.00 and $87,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a packaging development manager do?

A Packaging Development Manager oversees the design, development, and implementation of packaging solutions for products. They collaborate with product development, marketing, and manufacturing teams to create packaging that is functional, cost-effective, sustainable, and aligns with brand standards. Their responsibilities also include managing timelines, ensuring compliance with regulations, and staying updated on packaging trends and materials. By optimizing packaging processes, they help reduce costs, improve efficiency, and enhance the customer experience.

Is packaging a stable career?

Packaging development managers work in a stable industry as packaging is essential for product protection and branding across many sectors. The demand for skilled professionals in packaging design, materials, and sustainability continues to grow, supporting long-term career stability. Relevant skills include knowledge of materials, design software, and industry regulations, which can enhance job security.

Is being a packaging development manager a stressful job?

Packaging development managers often face pressure to meet project deadlines, control costs, and ensure product safety and quality. The role can involve managing cross-functional teams and handling tight schedules, which may contribute to work-related stress. However, stress levels vary depending on company culture and individual workload management skills.

What are some common challenges faced by packaging development managers during the product launch process?

Packaging Development Managers often encounter challenges related to balancing innovation, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability while meeting tight launch timelines. Coordinating cross-functional teams—including marketing, procurement, and manufacturing—requires strong communication and project management skills. Additionally, ensuring packaging designs comply with regulatory standards and can be efficiently scaled for mass production is a frequent hurdle. The role also demands agility to troubleshoot unexpected supply chain or material availability issues that can arise close to launch dates.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a packaging development manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Packaging Development Manager, you need expertise in packaging materials, design, and engineering principles, often supported by a degree in packaging science, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, packaging testing protocols, and knowledge of industry regulations such as FDA or ISO standards are typically required. Strong project management, communication, and problem-solving skills help drive innovation and collaboration across teams. These skills ensure packaging solutions are cost-effective, sustainable, and compliant, which is vital for product protection and brand success.

What is the difference between Packaging Development Manager vs Packaging Engineer?

AspectPackaging Development ManagerPackaging Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in Packaging, Engineering, or related field; often requires experience in project managementBachelor's degree in Packaging, Mechanical, or Industrial Engineering; certifications like CPP or PMP are common
Work EnvironmentLeads teams, manages projects, collaborates with suppliers and R&D departmentsDesigns, tests, and develops packaging solutions; works closely with manufacturing and quality teams
Industry UsageUsed across manufacturing, consumer goods, and logistics companies for overseeing packaging projectsCommonly employed in product development, quality assurance, and technical roles within packaging departments

The Packaging Development Manager focuses on leading packaging projects and managing teams, while the Packaging Engineer concentrates on designing and testing packaging solutions. Both roles require relevant technical credentials and work closely within the packaging industry, but their responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

What are popular job titles related to Packaging Development Manager jobs in Cleveland, OH? For Packaging Development Manager jobs in Cleveland, OH, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Packaging Development Manager jobs in Cleveland, OH look for? The top searched job categories for Packaging Development Manager jobs in Cleveland, OH are:
What cities near Cleveland, OH are hiring for Packaging Development Manager jobs? Cities near Cleveland, OH with the most Packaging Development Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Packaging Development Manager job openings in Cleveland, OH as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,987 per year, or $36.1 per hour.

Senior Technologist, Packaging Research & Development, Pet

J.M. Smucker Company

Akron, OH • On-site

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


J.M. Smucker rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

49th of 437 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Your Opportunity as the Senior Technologist, Packaging Research & Development, Pet

Shape the future of pet food packaging at Smucker! In this hands-on innovation role, you'll develop and launch new packaging solutions that protect product quality, enhance sustainability, and deliver a better consumer experience. Working cross-functionally with suppliers and manufacturing teams, you'll lead package development from concept and testing through commercialization while driving continuous improvement and sustainable packaging initiatives. If you're passionate about packaging technology, problem-solving, and bringing new ideas to life, this is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on iconic pet brands. 🐾

Location: Orrville, OH

Work Arrangements: Hybrid, 60% or more in office presence as business need requires. Travel up to 30% annually.

In this role you will:

  • Collaborate boldly with Product R&D, Creative Services, Brand Management, Purchasing, and Suppliers to bring new packaging concepts to life-starting from the earliest design stages.

  • Design and develop innovative packaging solutions using materials like film/laminate, thermoforming, injection molding, paperboard, and corrugated formats-driven by consumer needs and business goals.

  • Lead testing and validation of packaging performance across production, distribution, shelf life, sustainability, and consumer usability-with growing independence.

  • Execute qualifications and trials with suppliers and production facilities, ensuring seamless integration into our manufacturing processes.

  • Drive plant trials with precision-planning, executing, analyzing, and summarizing results in partnership with manufacturing and technical teams.

  • Craft performance-based specifications and manage them within our electronic database system.

  • Advise and recommend top-tier suppliers and service providers to support successful product launches.

  • Champion innovation by proposing new packaging technologies, sustainability solutions, cost-saving ideas, and creative problem-solving approaches.

  • Support technical troubleshooting across the packaging supply chain and production environments.

  • Learn to assess legal and environmental aspects, and patent opportunities for new packaging

  • Build strong relationships with strategic packaging suppliers to stay ahead of trends and capabilities.

What we are looking for:

Minimum Requirements:

  • Bachelor of Science degree in Packaging Science/Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Material Science or related technical degree

  • 2+ years of experience in packaging development or packaging engineering

  • Knowledge ofpackaging materials, technologies, andapplications

  • Understanding ofbasic package attributes andqualification test procedures

  • Experience collaborating acrossmulti-functionaland discipline boundaries in a dynamic project environment

  • Experience conducting plant and lab trials

  • Ability to lift up to 30 lbs.

  • Willingness to travel up to 30% based on project needs and launch schedules

Additional skills and experiences that we think would make someone successful in this role:

  • Experience in the food or beverage industry

  • Familiaritywith packing line machinery and equipment (ex: flexible pouch, bagging, rigidcontainerfillingand sealing, case packing etc.)

#LI-KK1

#INDSA

TheRight Placefor You

We are bold, kind, strive to do the right thing, we play to win, and we believe in a strong community that thrives together. Our culture is rooted in ourBasic Beliefs, and we believe in supporting every employee by meeting their physical, emotional, and financial needs.

Stay connected with usonLinkedIn

We're an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, age, national origin, disability status or protected veteran status.


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