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Packaging Development Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Packaging Manager is responsible for leading and developing a team of Packaging Engineers while driving the design, development, and commercialization of packaging solutions across Ferrara ...

Help drive packaging development of innovation projects for North America. Manage the design, specification, testing, and qualification of packaging structures for topical, solid oral dose, liquid ...

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 ...

The Packaging Manager is responsible for leading and developing a team of Packaging Engineers while driving the design, development, and commercialization of packaging solutions across Ferrara ...

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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 Sep 13, 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.

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Infographic showing various Packaging Development Manager job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,438 per year, or $37.2 per hour.

Manager, Packaging Engineer

Chicago, IL • On-site

Ferrara
Manufacturing • 5 - 10K employees

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Ferrara Candy rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Work Location: Chicago
Due to the highly interactive and team-based nature of this role, in-person attendance for most of the workweek (i.e., 3 days or more) is essential for: effective communication including during in-person meetings, strong supervision, real-time problem-solving, and participation in cross-functional initiatives.
Want to make an impact?
The Packaging Manager is responsible for leading and developing a team of Packaging Engineers while driving the design, development, and commercialization of packaging solutions across Ferrara's confection and fruit snack portfolio. This role provides strategic and technical leadership to support innovation, sustainability, operational excellence, and continuous improvement initiatives, partnering closely with cross-functional teams to deliver packaging solutions that meet consumer, business, and manufacturing needs.
Ways you will make a difference
  • Lead, coach, and develop a team of Packaging Engineers, fostering a culture of engagement, accountability, and continuous learning.
  • Set team priorities, manage workloads, and provide strategic direction for packaging development and commercialization activities.
  • Oversee the design, testing, qualification, and implementation of primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging solutions.
  • Partner cross-functionally with R&D, Operations, Engineering, Procurement, Marketing, and external suppliers to support new product launches and packaging innovation.
  • Drive packaging innovation, sustainability, and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance product quality, manufacturing efficiency, and consumer experience.
  • Identify and evaluate new packaging technologies, materials, and supplier capabilities to support business objectives.
  • Provide technical expertise and recommendations to leadership and key stakeholders on packaging-related opportunities and challenges.

Skills that will make you successful
  • Strong project management, communication, and cross-functional leadership skills.
  • Experience with SAP, PLM system
  • Proven experience leading, coaching, and developing technical teams
  • Strong knowledge of packaging materials, manufacturing processes, testing methods, and commercialization activities
  • Experience working in a food manufacturing, consumer packaged goods (CPG), or similar fast-paced environment preferred.

Experiences that will support your success
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering,
  • 5+ years of experience in packaging engineering, packaging development, or a related field.

What We Offer
At Ferrara, we're proud to support our employees with comprehensive benefits that enhance health, financial wellness, and include paid time off (PTO). Eligible employees may also receive an annual bonus based on company performance. Learn more about our benefits at https://flimp.live/Ferrara-Benefits-Resource-Center
Compensation
The salary range for this role is $ 102,075 - $ 142,905 annually.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. In order to provide equal employment and advancement opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees, employment decisions and opportunities at Ferrara will be based on merit, qualifications, and abilities, without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, marital or civil union status, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, military or veteran status, disability, handicap, genetic information, pregnancy (childbirth or related medical condition), or on any other basis prohibited by law. This policy governs all aspects of employment, including selection, job assignment, compensation, discipline, termination, and access to benefits and training.
Nearest Major Market: Chicago

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