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Packaging Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Systematics

Packaging Engineer

Itasca, IL · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

SUMMARY Systematics is seeking a junior-level Packaging Engineer to join our packaging design team. This role is ideal for a recent graduate or early-career engineer with hands-on Eng View and ...

viaPhoton

Packaging Engineer

Naperville, IL · On-site

Have a bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field * Are proficient in SolidWorks for packaging design * Have experience with packaging materials and ...

Xylem

Packaging Engineer

Morton Grove, IL · On-site

$75K - $115K/yr

This engineer will spearhead packaging and continuous improvement projects based on opportunities uncovered personally through their own analysis, through the experience of others on the team, or ...

Ebro Electronic GmbH

Packaging Engineer

Morton Grove, IL · On-site

$75K - $115K/yr

This engineer will spearhead packaging and continuous improvement projects based on opportunities uncovered personally through their own analysis, through the experience of others on the team, or ...

Eagle Foods, LLC

Packaging Engineer

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

Responsibilities Summary The Packaging Engineer is responsible for the development, qualification, commercialization, and continuous improvement of packaging systems across Eagle Foods' portfolio ...

Xylem

Packaging Engineer

Morton Grove, IL · On-site

$75K - $115K/yr

This engineer will spearhead packaging and continuous improvement projects based on opportunities uncovered personally through their own analysis, through the experience of others on the team, or ...

Mittera Group Inc

Packaging Engineer

Berkeley, IL · On-site

Description Description Designs and engineers structural packaging solutions using corrugate and folding carton substrates, translating customer requirements and product specifications into buildable ...

YSI Inc.

Packaging Engineer

Morton Grove, IL · On-site

$75K - $115K/yr

The Role The Packaging Engineer will be responsible for a wide array of packaging, material flow and continuous improvement projects and initiatives located at our Morton Grove facility. This role ...

Mittera

Packaging Engineer

Berkeley, IL · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Description Designs and engineers structural packaging solutions using corrugate and folding carton substrates, translating customer requirements and product specifications into buildable, cost ...

Mittera Group

Packaging Engineer

Berkeley, IL · On-site

Description Designs and engineers structural packaging solutions using corrugate and folding carton substrates, translating customer requirements and product specifications into buildable, cost ...

Ferrara

Manager, Packaging Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

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 ...

CONAGRA

Packaging Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$64K - $95K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Packaging, Engineering, or a related field. * Minimum of 3 years of packaging development and project experience in consumer-packaged goods, manufacturing, packaging ...

Ferrero SpA

Manager, Packaging Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

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 Engineer information

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How much do packaging engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for packaging engineer in Chicago, IL is $43.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.65 and $50.77 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.
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Packaging Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Packaging Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 88% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 6% Contract, 2% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 92% In-person, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,776 per year, or $43.6 per hour.

Packaging Engineer

Romeoville, IL

Sterling Engineering Inc.
See more jobs at Sterling Engineering Inc.external

$135K - $145K/yr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Packaging Engineer
Location: Romeoville, IL
Hire Type: Contract-to-Hire, Onsite
Target Pay Rate: $65.00 - $70.00/hour (on contract) | $135,000–145,000/year (upon conversion)
Benefits: PTO, paid holidays, BCBS medical plans, dental/vision plans, 401(k), & ESOP program

Must-Have Skills:
  • Packaging engineering experience within cosmetics, personal care, or consumer packaged goods (CPG)
  • Experience developing primary and secondary packaging solutions
  • Strong understanding of packaging materials including plastics, glass, aluminum, and paperboard
  • Packaging testing experience including compatibility, stability, transport, and line trials
  • CAD software proficiency (SolidWorks, ArtiosCAD, or similar)
  • Strong project management and cross-functional collaboration skills

Job Summary:
Seeking a Packaging Engineer to lead the design, development, testing, and commercialization of innovative packaging solutions for cosmetic and personal care products. This role will partner with Product Development, Marketing, Quality, Supply Chain, and external suppliers to deliver packaging that meets brand, performance, regulatory, and manufacturing requirements while supporting sustainability and cost-saving initiatives.

Job Duties:
  • Design and develop primary and secondary packaging components including bottles, jars, tubes, pumps, caps, cartons, and labels
  • Translate product, consumer, and branding requirements into functional packaging solutions
  • Lead packaging projects from concept through commercialization
  • Conduct packaging feasibility studies and manage development timelines
  • Perform packaging validation and testing, including compatibility, drop, leakage, compression, and transportation testing
  • Support supplier qualification and onboarding activities
  • Develop packaging specifications, drawings, BOMs, and technical documentation
  • Provide technical support during manufacturing scale-up, validation, and product launch activities
  • Troubleshoot packaging issues related to manufacturing, filling, and distribution processes
  • Drive cost reduction, sustainability, and packaging performance improvement initiatives
  • Stay current on packaging innovations, materials, and industry trends

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or related field required
  • 2–5+ years of packaging engineering experience preferred
  • Familiarity with cosmetic filling operations and manufacturing processes
  • Knowledge of FDA, ISO, ASTM, and packaging regulatory requirements preferred
  • Experience with sustainable packaging initiatives, including recyclability and PCR materials, is a plus
  • Experience working with overseas suppliers is preferred
  • Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma experience is a plus
  • Strong communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills


Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.