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Packaging Innovation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Come join Ferrero's Packaging Open Innovation team where we scout and develop breakthrough novel packaging technologies! The role of Packaging Innovation Specialist is to provide Open Innovation ...

Come join Ferrero's Packaging Open Innovation team where we scout and develop breakthrough novel packaging technologies! The role of Packaging Innovation Specialist is to provide Open Innovation ...

Come join Ferrero's Packaging Open Innovation team where we scout and develop breakthrough novel packaging technologies! The role of Packaging Innovation Specialist is to provide Open Innovation ...

Job Responsibilities Lead Packaging Innovation * Drive the development of innovative packaging concepts for global and regional product launches. * Shape packaging design direction from early-stage ...

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Packaging Innovation information

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How much do packaging innovation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for packaging innovation in the United States is $18.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in packaging innovation, and why are they important?

To thrive in Packaging Innovation, you need a solid background in packaging engineering, materials science, or industrial design, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with CAD software, prototyping tools, and knowledge of sustainability standards or certifications are crucial for developing and testing new packaging solutions. Strong creative problem-solving, project management, and cross-functional communication skills set top performers apart in this field. These abilities are essential for designing innovative, cost-effective, and sustainable packaging that meets business, consumer, and regulatory needs.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in packaging innovation, and how are they typically addressed?

Professionals in Packaging Innovation often encounter challenges such as balancing sustainability goals with cost-effectiveness, complying with evolving regulations, and ensuring that new designs protect product integrity while maintaining manufacturability. These challenges are typically addressed through close collaboration with cross-functional teams such as R&D, marketing, and supply chain, as well as staying updated on industry trends and emerging materials. Regular prototyping, testing, and feedback loops are also crucial to refining innovative solutions and aligning them with both business objectives and consumer expectations.

What is packaging innovation?

Packaging innovation refers to the development and implementation of new or improved packaging solutions that enhance product protection, user experience, sustainability, and efficiency. Professionals in packaging innovation explore materials, designs, and technologies to meet business goals and consumer needs. Their work often involves collaborating with design, engineering, and marketing teams to create packaging that stands out in the market and aligns with environmental standards.

What is the difference between Packaging Innovation vs Packaging Engineer?

AspectPackaging InnovationPackaging Engineer
Primary FocusDeveloping new packaging concepts and innovative solutionsDesigning, testing, and improving packaging systems
Required SkillsCreativity, trend analysis, prototypingEngineering principles, CAD, testing methods
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, design studios, collaborative teamsManufacturing facilities, technical departments
CertificationsOften not required, but design or innovation certifications helpfulEngineering degrees, certifications like PE or PMP

Packaging Innovation focuses on creating new, creative packaging solutions and exploring trends, while Packaging Engineers apply engineering principles to develop practical, functional packaging systems. Both roles are essential in the packaging industry but differ in their approach and skill sets.

What states have the most Packaging Innovation jobs? States with the most job openings for Packaging Innovation jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Packaging Innovation jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Packaging Innovation jobs are:
Infographic showing various Packaging Innovation job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,076 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Packaging Innovation Specialist

Ferrero

Chicago, IL • On-site

$99/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Ferrero rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

136th of 435 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

About the Role:

We have a current opening for a Packaging Innovation Specialist and are actively reviewing applications.

Come join Ferrero’s Packaging Open Innovation team where we scout and develop breakthrough novel packaging technologies! 
The role of Packaging Innovation Specialist is to provide Open Innovation support for lab testing, prototypes, and owning the lab space. They are responsible for test reports and collaborating with Open Innovation Managers (Packaging and Toys etc.) as well as external innovation partners (scouting, IP review, etc.). A successful candidate will be comfortable running the open innovation packaging lab equipment as well as being a creative problem solver who likes to discover new technologies.  

Main Responsibilities:

Packaging Innovation
•    Scout novel packaging innovation from the market and utilize to create new formulations / concepts.
•    Prototype the packaging materials and system by using lab instruments.
•    Coordinate trials and connections with external/internal partners. 
•    Operate CAD and CAM software as part of prototyping workflow to support breakthrough toy and packaging development (including comfortable learning and using AI design and development tools)
•    Be a key ally to the N. America Innovation center, Strategy & Innovation teams by effectively contributing to all relevant Innovation projects. 

Packaging Evaluation
•    Understand, plan, prepare, execute and report packaging performance test requests through packaging lab activities. (Conduct packaging testing)
•    Ability to work independently and able to set priorities.
•    Update supervisor with test schedules and reports.


Lab Organization
•    Perform Lab instruments routine maintenance.
•    Maintain a tidy and clean lab environment.
•    Other ad hoc duties as assigned.

About You:

•    MS/BS degree in Chemistry, Material Science, Polymer Science, Mechanical-Packaging Engineering, Chemical Engineering, and/or related fields 
•    Minimum of 3-5 years experience in Packaging, Innovation, R&D, and/or development experience in a CPG and/or Multi-national corporation
•    Strong scientific knowledge in Material Science (physical and chemical properties of polymers), Packaging Innovation, Material Engineering, but willing to extend scope of work beyond area of expertise 
•    Experience in a relevant CAD, CAM software, and prototyping workflow (3D printing, small component assemblies).
•    Strong business acumen with superior oral and written communication skills
•    Enthusiastic, curious, proactive, analytical, open-minded, and patient with a “can-do” attitude and a strategic mind-set
•    Strong attitude to connect external and internal stakeholders toward a synergistic approach to complex packaging projects
•    Self-driven and capable of dealing with unstructured and emerging environments
•    Critical thinking and Creative problem solving
•    Experience with proactive laboratory piloting
•    Proficient in Microsoft Office, Excel, Word, and Powerpoint

Artificial Intelligence Disclosure
As part of our recruitment process, Ferrero may use artificial intelligence (AI) enabled tools to assist with reviewing candidate applications. These tools are used solely to support recruiters by summarizing application information and identifying potential alignment with job requirements. AI does not independently screen out or select candidates, and it does not replace human judgment. Final decisions regarding candidate progression are always made by Ferrero recruiters and hiring managers.

What We Offer:

Careers with caring built in - discover our benefits here.

The base compensation range for this position is $74,457 - 99, 276. Actual compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and other job-related factors permitted by law. This range represents the anticipated salary for this position at this time.

In addition to base salary, we offer a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and other benefits.

About Ferrero:

Ferrero began its journey in the small town of Alba in Piedmont, Italy, in 1946. Today, it is one of the world’s largest sweet-packaged food companies, with many iconic brands sold in countries all over the world. Find out more about Ferrero at ferrero.com.

DE&I at Ferrero:

Ferrero is committed to building a diverse and inclusive culture in which all employees feel welcomed and appreciated and have the same opportunities. We believe all our people are equally talented in their own way. In nurturing the curiosity and natural abilities of our employees, we provide them, generation after generation, the means to succeed personally and professionally, enabling them to craft their journey at Ferrero. The diversity of our talents is what makes our work environment multicultural, innovative, and highly rewarding.
Find out more here.

Ferrero is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable human rights laws. Ferrero will recruit, hire, train, and promote all persons without regard to race, creed, color, sex (including pregnancy, gender, sexual orientation, and gender identity), religion, national origin or ancestry, age, disability, or history of disability (except where physical or mental abilities are a bona fide occupational requirement and the individual is not able to perform the essential functions of the position even with reasonable accommodations), citizenship, or any other protected characteristic. 

Ferrero will accommodate the needs of applicants with disabilities throughout all stages of the selection process. If you need accommodation during the recruitment process, please advise the People & Organization (HR) Representative. Information relating to the need for accommodation and accommodation measures will be addressed confidentially.


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