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Packaging Science Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Nestle

Senior Packaging Specialist (TAG)

Fremont, MI

$72K - $89K/yr

A BS or MS degree in Food Science, Food Engineering, Chemical Engineering Packaging Science, Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field. Position requires approximately 25-50 ...

Smithers Group

Packaging Test Technician

Lansing, MI

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

For more than 50 years, Smithers Distribution Testing in Lansing, MI has provided package and ... and scientific logic. EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE: • High school diploma or general education ...

Smithers

Packaging Test Technician

Lansing, MI · On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

For more than 50 years, Smithers Distribution Testing in Lansing, MI has provided package and ... and scientific logic. EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE: • High school diploma or general education ...

Fitzgerald Public Schools

Science Teacher

Warren, MI

$45K - $58K/yr

Fitzgerald Public Schools has a competitive salary and benefits package along with opportunities ... Science - DX (preferred), Integrated Science - DI, or Chemistry - DC, Biology- DA * Must submit to ...

Fitzgerald Public Schools

Science Teacher

Warren, MI · On-site

$45K - $58K/yr

Fitzgerald Public Schools has a competitive salary and benefits package along with opportunities ... Science - DX (preferred), Integrated Science - DI, or Chemistry - DC, Biology- DA * Must submit to ...

Natera

Medical Science Liaison

Ann Arbor, MI

$150K - $175K/yr

The pay range is listed and actual compensation packages are based on a wide array of factors ... scientists, business professionals, software engineers and many other professionals from world ...

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Packaging Science information

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How much do packaging science jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for packaging science in Michigan is $16.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $17.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a packaging scientist do?

A packaging scientist designs and develops packaging materials and systems to protect products during storage, transportation, and sale. They analyze material properties, conduct testing, and use tools like CAD software to create effective packaging solutions, often working in laboratories or manufacturing environments. Strong knowledge of materials science, engineering, and quality standards is essential for this role.

What jobs does packaging do?

Packaging jobs involve designing, producing, and assembling packaging materials to protect and contain products during storage and transportation. Roles include packaging technician, machine operator, quality control inspector, and packaging engineer, often requiring knowledge of manufacturing processes and safety standards. These jobs are typically performed in manufacturing or warehouse environments and may require familiarity with packaging machinery and industry regulations.

Is packaging engineering a good career?

Packaging engineering is a viable career that involves designing and developing packaging solutions for products, requiring knowledge of materials, manufacturing processes, and sustainability. It offers opportunities in manufacturing, consumer goods, and logistics industries, often requiring a bachelor's degree in packaging science, engineering, or related fields. The profession can provide stable employment with potential for advancement and specialization.

What engineering jobs pay $500,000?

High-level engineering roles such as petroleum engineers, aerospace engineers, and certain senior software or systems engineers can earn $500,000 or more annually, often with bonuses and stock options. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and specialized skills in areas like project management, design, or technical leadership.

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

To thrive as a Packaging Scientist, you need a solid background in materials science, chemistry, and engineering, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with CAD software, packaging testing equipment, and sustainability assessment tools is often required, along with knowledge of industry standards and regulations. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are standout soft skills for collaborating with cross-functional teams and addressing client needs. These skills and qualities are crucial for developing innovative, cost-effective, and sustainable packaging solutions that meet safety and regulatory requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Packaging Science, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Packaging Science often encounter challenges such as balancing cost-effectiveness with sustainability, meeting regulatory requirements, and ensuring product protection during transit. Addressing these challenges typically involves collaborating closely with cross-functional teams in engineering, marketing, and supply chain management to develop innovative packaging solutions. Staying updated on new materials, technologies, and regulations is also essential for success in this evolving field.

What is the difference between Packaging Science vs Packaging Engineering?

AspectPackaging SciencePackaging Engineering
EducationBachelor's in Packaging Science, Materials Science, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, product development, packaging designManufacturing plants, design labs, production facilities
CertificationsOften not required, but certifications like CPP can helpProfessional engineering licenses (PE) may be relevant
Industry UsageProduct packaging development, material testing, sustainabilityPackaging design, structural analysis, process optimization

Packaging Science focuses on the research, development, and testing of packaging materials and solutions, emphasizing sustainability and product protection. Packaging Engineering involves designing and implementing packaging systems, often with a focus on structural integrity and manufacturing processes. Both roles overlap in education and industry, but Packaging Science leans more toward research and material innovation, while Packaging Engineering emphasizes practical design and production.

What is packaging science?

Packaging science is an interdisciplinary field focused on the design, development, testing, and production of packaging materials and systems. It combines principles from materials science, engineering, chemistry, and marketing to create packaging that protects products, extends shelf life, and appeals to consumers. Professionals in this field work to ensure packaging is functional, sustainable, and cost-effective. Packaging scientists may also address regulatory compliance, environmental impact, and innovations in materials or technology.
What are popular job titles related to Packaging Science jobs in Michigan? For Packaging Science jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Packaging Science jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Packaging Science jobs in Michigan are:
Packaging Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Packaging Science job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 79% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 10% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,165 per year, or $16.4 per hour.

Packaging Conformance Inspector

Sunset Grown

Livonia, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Shift: M-F Day Shift
About Mastronardi Produce
Mastronardi Produce is the leading grower of greenhouse-grown fruits and vegetables in North America, known for the SUNSET® brand and a portfolio of flavor-forward tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, berries, and more. Our packaging keeps premium produce fresh, presentable, and protected from greenhouse to grocery shelves. We're investing in a Packaging Conformance Inspector function that's set up to be best-in-class.
About the Role
We're hiring a Packaging Conformance Inspector to be our eyes on the floor. Your job is to make sure inbound and outbound packaging matches what our specifications say we should be running. That means walking production and the warehouse every day, capturing photos of packaging at every stage, comparing what you see against the spec, and flagging any gaps such as wrong print, off-color labels, dimensional drift, seal issues, damaged cases, incorrect pallet patterns. You're the feedback loop between Sourcing's specifications and the reality of what suppliers deliver and what runs through our facilities. This is a hands-on, high-visibility role and an excellent foundation for a long career in packaging engineering.
What You'll Do
Floor Inspection & Photo Documentation (≈60%)
  • Walk receiving, production lines, packing areas, and the refrigerated warehouse daily to visually inspect primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging
  • Capture high-quality photographs of packaging at each stage of production and finished goods, building a consistent visual record of product coming into distribution center
  • Compare observed packaging against approved specifications: dimensions, print quality, color, graphics placement, label accuracy, seal appearance, case markings, pallet patterns, and stacking configuration
  • Identify and document deviations from specification - wrong artwork version, print defects, mis-sealed packs, damaged cases, incorrect pallet builds - and escalate to the right owner (Sourcing, Quality, Operations, or supplier)
  • Maintain an organized photo and inspection database that's searchable by SKU, supplier, line, and date
  • Inspect stacked pallets using step ladders to verify top-of-pallet condition, labeling, and corner protection

Specification Conformance & Supplier Feedback (≈30%)
  • Partner with Packaging Specialists on the sourcing team to make sure specifications are written clearly enough that any inspector can hold material against them and reach the same conclusion
  • Flag specifications that are vague, missing tolerances, or hard to verify visually - and propose improvements based on what you're seeing on the floor
  • Build incoming inspection criteria and visual standards (gold standard, photo references, defect libraries) so the same checks can be done consistently across shifts and sites
  • Provide structured feedback to internal stakeholders when delivered packaging doesn't match spec, including photo evidence and clear references to the specification clause in question
  • Support first article inspections when new suppliers or new components are introduced

Validation Support & Continuous Improvement (≈10%)
  • Support packaging validation activities by collecting field samples and documenting real-world packaging performance
  • Assist with root cause investigations on packaging-related complaints, damage, or retailer rejections
  • Track recurring defects and surface patterns to Sourcing leadership

What We're Looking For
Required
  • 0-3 years of experience in food packaging, quality, manufacturing, or related
  • Strong attention to detail and a good visual eye. You notice when something is off before anyone must point it out
  • Comfort being on your feet, on the floor, and in cold storage for most of the workday
  • Solid written communication - you can turn a stack of photos into a clear, organized report that someone can act on
  • Proficiency with smartphones, tablets, and basic photo tools; comfort with Excel, PowerBI, SafetyChain, and standard office software a plus.

Nice to Have
  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Packaging Science, Packaging Engineering, Quality, Food Science, or a related field or equivalent hands-on experience in packaging inspection, quality, or production
  • Experience reading and working from packaging specifications, drawings, or artwork files
  • Familiarity with fresh produce, perishables, or cold chain packaging
  • Exposure to packaging items such as flexible films, thermoformed trays, clamshells, top-seal trays, corrugated boxes, and palletization products
  • Familiarity with food safety standards (SQF, BRC, FSMA) as they relate to packaging
  • Basic photography skills framing, lighting, consistent reference shots

What You'll Bring
  • A sharp eye and the patience to look closely at the same things many times a day
  • A bias toward documenting in the moment rather than relying on memory
  • Comfort giving direct, evidence-based feedback to suppliers and internal partners

Work Environment & Physical Requirements
This role is hands-on and spends the majority of time outside of an office setting. Candidates should be prepared for the following conditions:
  • Refrigerated warehouse environment with average temperatures around 34°F (1°C); appropriate cold-weather PPE is provided
  • Background noise levels approaching 70 dB in operational areas
  • Computer-based work using company-provided systems to input inspection results, upload and organize photos, and manage documentation
  • Lifting of up to 30 lbs on a regular basis
  • Extended periods of standing and walking, including use of step ladders to inspect stacked pallets of product
  • Regular walking and bending as part of daily inspection activities
  • Manual dexterity is sufficient to operate cameras, handle packaging samples, and perform computer tasks

Reasonable accommodation may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this role.
Why Mastronardi
  • Being part of building the Packaging department from a strong foundation. Your inspections will directly shape how we hold suppliers accountable and how we write better specifications
  • Direct mentorship from experienced packaging professionals
  • Exposure to the full packaging lifecycle: spec development, supplier qualification, in-line conformance, and continuous improvement
  • A category-leading produce company with national reach and an ambitious sustainability agenda

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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