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Packaging Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Packaging Engineer

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$84 - $109/hr

The primary focus of the Packaging Engineer at the Ghirardelli Chocolate Company is to design and develop packaging solutions for new and existing products. This position is responsible for working ...

Packaging Engineer

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$84 - $109/hr

The Packaging Engineer leads the distribution testing of packaged products to ensure product integrity through the distribution cycle. The work environment is focused on cross functional ...

New

Packaging Engineer

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$84 - $109/hr

Job SummaryThe primary focus of the Packaging Engineer at the Ghirardelli Chocolate Company is to design and develop packaging solutions for new and existing products. This position is responsible ...

Packaging Engineer Classification: Exempt Position Status: Full Time Reports To: Senior Packaging Engineer Direct Reports: None Role Objectives: Working with cross functional Global teams you will ...

The Packaging Engineer leads the distribution testing of packaged products to ensure product integrity through the distribution cycle. The work environment is focused on cross functional ...

As a seasoned software packaging engineer, you would help us disseminate our software development kit to the wider world. As a member of Oblong's Core Platform Team, you would be responsible for ...

Packaging Engineer

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$83K - $108K/yr

The Packaging Engineer leads the distribution testing of packaged products to ensure product integrity through the distribution cycle. The work environment is focused on cross functional ...

Packaging Engineer Classification: Exempt Position Status: Full Time Reports To: Senior Packaging Engineer Direct Reports: None Role Objectives: Working with cross functional Global teams you will ...

As a seasoned software packaging engineer, you would help us disseminate our software development kit to the wider world. As a member of Oblong's Core Platform Team, you would be responsible for ...

The Packaging Engineer designs, tests, and implements packaging designs that emphasize sustainability and are an integral part of the organization's Product Development process. They also review and ...

Packaging Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$83K - $141K/yr

There is never a dull moment with us. /Preferred Qualifications We are looking for Packaging Engineer to join our Central Engineering team in Milpitas! Responsibilities * Candidate will work in a ...

Package Engineering degree preferred. Minimum of three years of experience working in industry required with two years of experience in medical package development. Regulated industry experience is ...

Packaging Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$83 - $142/hr

There is never a dull moment with us. /Preferred QualificationsWe are looking for Packaging Engineer to join our Central Engineering team in Milpitas!ResponsibilitiesCandidate will work in a small ...

Packaging Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$55 - $58/hr

Packaging Engineer Location: Fremont, CA AND Sparks, Nevada AND Austin, TX Opening: 1 Rate: $55-58/hr W2 100% onsite Job Summary: What You'll Do * Lead end-to-end engineered packaging projects for ...

Packaging Engineer Location: Fremont, CA AND Sparks, Nevada AND Austin, TX Job Summary: What You'll Do * Lead end-to-end engineered packaging projects for Vehicle and Energy platforms * Interface ...

New

There is never a dull moment with us. /Preferred Qualifications We are looking for Packaging Engineer to join our Central Engineering team in Milpitas! Responsibilities * Candidate will work in a ...

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Packaging Engineer information

See California salary details

$19

$41

$66

How much do packaging engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for 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 is a packaging engineer?

A packaging engineer is an engineer who specializes in developing containers and packages for products that meet the manufacturer’s needs. As a packaging engineer, your responsibilities and duties include working with the product manufacturer to decide what kind of package or container (box, bottle, bag, stretch wrap, molded forms, etc.) is best for the product. You discuss what material (paper, plastic, glass, metal, etc.) is best. You determine the most efficient method to produce the containers and how they will appear. This job often requires travel to meet with clients.

What does a packaging engineer do?

A Packaging Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing packaging solutions for products. They work to ensure that packaging is cost-effective, meets safety and regulatory standards, and protects the product during shipping and storage. Packaging Engineers collaborate with product development, manufacturing, and marketing teams to create packaging that is functional, sustainable, and appealing to customers. They may also research new materials and technologies to improve packaging performance and reduce environmental impact.

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

To thrive as a Packaging Engineer, you need a solid background in materials science, mechanical engineering, and packaging design, often supported by a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, packaging testing equipment, and regulatory standards such as ISTA or ASTM is typically required. Strong problem-solving, project management, and collaboration skills help you innovate and work effectively with cross-functional teams. These abilities ensure the creation of cost-effective, sustainable, and compliant packaging solutions that protect products and meet business objectives.

How does a packaging engineer typically collaborate with other departments during the product development process?

Packaging Engineers work closely with teams in product design, marketing, manufacturing, and quality assurance to ensure that packaging solutions are functional, cost-effective, and align with brand requirements. They frequently attend cross-functional meetings to gather input on packaging needs, address manufacturability concerns, and ensure regulatory compliance. This collaborative approach helps streamline the launch of new products and resolves issues quickly, making strong communication skills essential for success in this role.

What is the difference between Packaging Engineer vs Packaging Technician?

AspectPackaging EngineerPackaging Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering, packaging science, or related fieldHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical training often preferred
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, and testing of packaging solutions; collaboration with R&D and manufacturingImplementation, setup, and troubleshooting of packaging processes on the production line
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturers, consumer goods, food & beverage, pharmaceuticalsPackaging facilities, manufacturing plants, distribution centers

Packaging Engineers focus on designing and developing packaging solutions, requiring technical degrees and working in R&D or design settings. Packaging Technicians handle the practical implementation and maintenance of packaging processes on the production floor, often with technical training. Both roles are essential in the packaging industry but differ in responsibilities and required qualifications.

Are packaging engineers in demand?

Packaging engineers are in demand due to the growth of e-commerce and the need for sustainable packaging solutions. They work in manufacturing, consumer goods, and logistics industries, often requiring knowledge of materials, design, and industry standards. Job prospects are strong for those with technical skills and experience in CAD software and quality control.

How much do packaging engineers make?

Packaging engineers in general earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $90,000, with higher salaries possible in metropolitan areas due to cost of living and demand. Entry-level positions typically start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills or certifications can earn over $100,000 annually. Salary depends on factors such as experience, education, industry, and company size.

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Packaging Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Packaging Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Packaging Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,966 per year, or $41.8 per hour.

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

We are a large growing packaging company working in the cosmetic industry. This is a full-time position with great benefits, retirement package, and plenty of room for career growth. Responsibilities: Review and identify packaging issues, and provide value solutions.

Working closely with the Director of Customer Service, as well as art, marketing, sales, engineering, purchasing, customer service, maintenance, cost, production, and packaging team members to determine costs and possibilities of producing the proposed packaging. Develop, review, improve, and ensure production packaging designs (secondary and tertiary packaging components) are following all: display, regulations, and shipping conditions to ensure production satisfaction in early phase of upcoming packaging for approval. Which may include: sketches, specs, written analysis, samples, etc.

Maintains specs database for all packaging and pallet patterns. As wells as re-engineer, design, analyzing engineering specs and drawing of products to determine physical description of the item, safety requirements, handling, and the type of materials required for packaging to ensure process and quality improvement. Ability to lift and pull a minimum of 25 lbs.

Among: standing, sitting, and walking for long periods of time. Other duties as assigned. Requirements: Local Ability to travel.

Stable work-history. Bachelor's Degree in Packaging Engineering or Mechanical Engineering preferred. 2+ years of field related experience as a Packaging Engineer in Cosmetic Manufacturing in packaging development, consumer packaging, rapid prototyping, project management or similar related field experience is preferred.

Strong knowledge in mathematical, mechanical, and engineering. Software knowledge in CAD, Adobe Illustrator, CAPE/Topps, MS Office, and other web based analytical application and manufacturing database software knowledge is a plus. Knowledge packaging validation standards, drafting, specification standards, among others: specifications, guidelines and regulations are required.


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About Gulfstream Strategic Placements

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Gulfstream Strategic Placements, based in Los Angeles, CA, US, is a prominent company specializing in the recruitment and executive search industry. Their area of specialty lies mainly in the construction industry. With a keen eye for talent and a focus on fulfilling employers' talent needs, Gulfstream Strategic Placements is an industry leader connecting various businesses with well-suited, skilled professionals. They take great pride in their long-standing reputation for delivering quality candidates that help businesses thrive.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

Corona, CA, US

Year founded

2014

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