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Packaging Development Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nastech Global

Packaging Engineer

Fort Washington, PA · On-site

Roles & Responsibilities o Plan and execute package engineering assignments concerned with large life cycle management initiatives. o Engage in the development of the material and structural aspects ...

7-ELEVEN

Product Development Manager, Beverages

Irving, TX · On-site

$109K - $137K/yr

Product Development Manager will help support the development of new products and packaging for the business unit. Will cultivate consumer insights, market data and trends that help their business ...

7-Eleven

Product Development Manager, Beverages

Irving, TX · On-site

$109K - $137K/yr

Product Development Manager will help support the development of new products and packaging for the business unit. Will cultivate consumer insights, market data and trends that help their business ...

Kraft Heinz Company

Sr Sci, R&D - Packaging Dev

Glenview, IL · On-site

$89K - $112K/yr

Sr Scientist, R&D - Packaging Development, Philadelphia Job Purpose The Sr Packaging Scientist will ... Manage multiple assignments/ projects concurrently and possess the ability to prioritize between a ...

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Packaging Development Manager information

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$33K

$77.4K

$133K

How much do packaging development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for packaging development manager in the United States is $77,438.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,500.00 and $90,500.00 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.

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.

More about Packaging Development Manager jobs
What cities are hiring for Packaging Development Manager jobs? Cities with the most Packaging Development Manager job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Packaging Development jobs? The most popular types of Packaging Development jobs are:
What states have the most Packaging Development Manager jobs? States with the most job openings for Packaging Development Manager jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Packaging Development Manager jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Packaging Development Manager jobs are:
Packaging Development Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Packaging Development Manager job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,438 per year, or $37.2 per hour.
Structural Designer Packaging Engineer

Structural Designer Packaging Engineer

Golden West Packaging Group

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$70K - $71K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Golden West Packaging Group rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

24th of 113 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

Position Title: Structural Designer / Packaging Engineer
Reports to: Design Supervisor
FLSA: Exempt
Position Summary:
The Structural Designer develops and implements packaging solutions for customers across consumer, industrial, retail, club store, protective packaging, and display markets. This position applies packaging design principles, technical knowledge, and problem-solving skills to develop manufacturable, cost-effective packaging systems utilizing corrugated, folding carton, foam, and related materials.
The incumbent exercises independent judgment in evaluating customer requirements, developing design concepts, selecting appropriate materials, assessing manufacturing feasibility, and recommending packaging solutions that meet customer objectives and company standards. The position collaborates with customers, sales personnel, customer service, and manufacturing teams to support successful packaging development and implementation.
Essential Functions:
  • Design and develop custom packaging solutions that meet customer requirements, manufacturing capabilities, performance objectives, and profitability goals.
  • Apply structural design principles to optimize package functionality, manufacturability, product protection, and cost effectiveness.
  • Evaluate packaging requirements involving material selection, product protection, converting processes, manufacturing capabilities, and supply chain considerations.
  • Exercise independent judgment in developing design concepts, structural configurations, and packaging recommendations.
  • Develop engineering drawings, specifications, prototypes, CAD models, and technical documentation required for manufacturing implementation.
  • Evaluate manufacturing feasibility and recommend appropriate material specifications, tooling requirements, and production methodologies.
  • Analyze packaging and production challenges and recommend practical solutions to improve performance, quality, and efficiency.
  • Coordinate packaging development projects from concept through implementation while collaborating with sales, graphics, customer service, production, and external suppliers.
  • Provide technical support and packaging design recommendations to customers, sales personnel, and internal departments.
  • Participate in customer meetings to discuss packaging requirements, product performance, manufacturability, and cost considerations.
  • Research packaging materials, manufacturing processes, and industry trends to support innovation and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Recommend improvements to packaging designs and production processes that enhance operational efficiency, product quality, and customer satisfaction.
  • Ensure compliance with engineering specifications, quality standards, customer requirements, and company procedures.
  • Maintain accurate design records, engineering documentation, and project files.
  • Perform other professional-level duties consistent with the scope and responsibilities of the position.

Education & Experience Required:
  • Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Packaging Design, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Design, or a closely related technical discipline preferred.
  • Minimum of three (3) years of experience in structural packaging design, packaging engineering, or related converting environments involving corrugated, folding carton, displays, and protective packaging applications.
  • Demonstrated ability to apply packaging design principles, technical knowledge, and problem-solving skills to develop effective packaging solutions.
  • Equivalent combinations of education, technical training, and relevant experience may be considered.

Technical Aptitude & Software:
  • Proficiency with ArtiosCAD for structural packaging development and manufacturing specification preparation.
  • Working knowledge of Adobe Illustrator for graphics integration and technical file preparation.
  • Experience with Esko software, including Studio and related packaging workflow applications, preferred.
  • Knowledge of corrugated, folding carton, foam, and protective packaging materials, manufacturing processes, and converting technologies.
  • Ability to evaluate alternatives, make technical recommendations, and communicate packaging solutions to customers and internal stakeholders.

Skills:
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
  • Effective verbal, written, and technical communication skills.
  • Ability to exercise sound judgment when making recommendations affecting product performance, manufacturability, and customer satisfaction.
  • Strong organizational and project coordination skills.
  • Experience with Kongsberg cutting tables, prototype development, and packaging validation methodologies preferred.

Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to inspect samples, evaluate prototypes, and perform packaging development and testing activities.
  • Occasional lifting of materials, samples, and prototypes up to 30 pounds.
  • Ability to travel periodically to customer locations, manufacturing facilities, and industry events as business needs require.

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