1

Packaging Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

The Opportunity Adept Group is seeking a Packaging Engineer (1099 Contractor) in the Chattanooga, TN area! The ideal candidate would have 5+ years of experience in R&D at B2C or B2B , preferably in ...

The Opportunity Adept Group is seeking a Packaging Engineer (1099 Contractor) in the Chattanooga, TN area! The ideal candidate would have 5+ years of experience in R&D at B2C or B2B , preferably in ...

The Opportunity Adept Group is seeking a Packaging Engineer (1099 Contractor) in the Chattanooga, TN area! The ideal candidate would have 5+ years of experience in R&D at B2C or B2B , preferably in ...

The Opportunity Adept Group is seeking a Packaging Engineer (1099 Contractor) in the Chattanooga, TN area! The ideal candidate would have 5+ years of experience in R&D at B2C or B2B , preferably in ...

The Opportunity Adept Group is seeking a Packaging Engineer (1099 Contractor) in the Chattanooga, TN area! The ideal candidate would have 5+ years of experience in R&D at B2C or B2B , preferably in ...

The Opportunity Adept Group is seeking a Packaging Engineer (1099 Contractor) in the Chattanooga, TN area! The ideal candidate would have 5+ years of experience in R&D at B2C or B2B , preferably in ...

Desktop Packaging Engineer Location:Plano, TX/Reston, VA/Columbia, SC/Knoxville, TN/Lafayette, LA/Birmingham, AL Type: Permanent Full Time Responsibilities * Support enterprise desktop application ...

Desktop Packaging Engineer Location:Plano, TX/Reston, VA/Columbia, SC/Knoxville, TN/Lafayette, LA/Birmingham, AL Type: Permanent Full Time Responsibilities * Support enterprise desktop application ...

Desktop Packaging Engineer Location:Plano, TX/Reston, VA/Columbia, SC/Knoxville, TN/Lafayette, LA/Birmingham, AL Type: Permanent Full Time Responsibilities * Support enterprise desktop application ...

Desktop Packaging Engineer Location:Plano, TX/Reston, VA/Columbia, SC/Knoxville, TN/Lafayette, LA/Birmingham, AL Type: Permanent Full Time Responsibilities * Support enterprise desktop application ...

Desktop Packaging Engineer Location:Plano, TX/Reston, VA/Columbia, SC/Knoxville, TN/Lafayette, LA/Birmingham, AL Type: Permanent Full Time Responsibilities * Support enterprise desktop application ...

Desktop Packaging Engineer Location:Plano, TX/Reston, VA/Columbia, SC/Knoxville, TN/Lafayette, LA/Birmingham, AL Type: Permanent Full Time Responsibilities * Support enterprise desktop application ...

Packaging Engineering Lead

La Vergne, TN · On-site

$97K - $128K/yr

Reporting to the VP of Engineering, the Packaging Engineering Lead is responsible for leading the development, commercialization, and optimization of primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging ...

Showing results 21-40

Packaging Engineer information

See Tennessee salary details

$17

$38

$60

How much do packaging engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for packaging engineer in Tennessee is $38.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.66 and $44.71 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 Tennessee?

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

What are popular job titles related to Packaging Engineer jobs in Tennessee?

For Packaging Engineer jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Packaging Engineer jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Packaging Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Packaging Engineer job openings in Tennessee as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,979 per year, or $38.5 per hour.

Senior Packaging Engineer

Chattanooga, TN • On-site, Remote

Contractor

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Description
Adept Group offers an award-winning workplace for exceptional packaging industry talent. We work on a range of innovative projects for iconic brand owners. Our technically gifted team collaborates to produce unparalleled results.
We offer a great place to showcase your expertise and build upon your skillset. All while having fun with amazing people from a variety of diverse backgrounds. We're driven, inspirational and most importantly, human.
We offer a flexible, creative culture focusing on 3 pillars - our environment, our communities, and our health and well-being. Join a team committed to building a sustainable future!
The Opportunity
Adept Group is seeking a Packaging Engineer (1099 Contractor) in the Chattanooga, TN area! The ideal candidate would have 5+ years of experience in R&D at B2C or B2B, preferably in the Life Science industry but open to personal care, beauty, food, or chemical industries.
This is a 1099 Contractor (Independent Contractor) opportunity for 40-hours per week for 12 months.
This project requires this person to work 2 days onsite.
*Relocation assistance available for eligible candidates*
Key Responsibilities:
  • Drive packaging development for innovation projects across North America, accelerating timelines while ensuring high-quality execution.
  • Provide versatile, hands-on support across a range of packaging materials and formats, with a focus on consumer healthcare products (e.g., OTC, vitamins, easy-open/easy-close solutions).
  • Operate with a sense of urgency to support a high-volume workload and fast-paced development environment.
  • Bring a well-rounded "jack-of-all-trades" approach, balancing innovation with practical, scalable solutions aligned to industry timelines.

Typical Day to Day:
  • Partner cross-functionally with R&D, Brand, and eCommerce teams to develop new packaging structures for product portfolios.
  • Lead and support activities including sourcing, design, testing, specification development, and packaging trials.
  • Collaborate closely with formulation teams, plant engineers, suppliers, and external manufacturers to ensure seamless execution from concept through commercialization.
  • Incorporate consumer insights and marketing inputs to develop packaging for new product launches and updates to existing products.
  • Balance innovation-focused work with hands-on involvement in line trials, operational support, and troubleshooting to ensure manufacturability and performance.
Requirements:
  • 5-10 years' experience in R&D at B2C or B2B
  • Technical background in primary packaging development and design, specification, testing, tooling/molding process, and materials/manufacturing qualification
  • Packaging focused on user experience
  • Secondary packaging experience a plus!

Disclaimer:This is a 1099 independent contractor position. As such, this role is not eligible for company-sponsored benefits, including health insurance, paid time off, or retirement plans. The contractor is responsible for managing their own tax withholdings, insurance coverage, and other obligations associated with independent contractor status.
Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.