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Packaging Science Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

Mark Anthony Group Inc.

Packaging Manager

Columbia, SC · On-site

The Packaging Area Manager is responsible for the active management of the Packaging Operations ... Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Food Science, Business Administration ...

Unum UK

Data Scientist II - CX Analytics

Columbia, SC · On-site +1

Competitive benefits package that includes: Health, Vision, Dental, Short & Long-Term Disability ... In this role, you will focus on executing applied data science work-running analyses, supporting ...

isola

AIKI Packer (2nd Shift) - Ridgeway

Ridgeway, SC

$17/hr

Isola, an industry leader in global materials sciences whose mission is to improve life by enabling ... Add this package in a timely manner to assist the breakdown and build-up operators to complete ...

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Packaging Science information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$11

$17

$25

How much do packaging science jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for packaging science in Columbia, SC is $17.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $18.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

Is packaging science worth it?

Packaging science is a valuable field that involves designing and developing packaging solutions for products, requiring knowledge of materials, engineering, and sustainability. Careers in packaging science can offer stable employment and opportunities for advancement, especially with relevant skills and certifications. The field is essential in industries like consumer goods, pharmaceuticals, and food, making it a practical choice for those interested in product development and manufacturing processes.

What can you do with a packaging science degree?

A packaging science degree prepares individuals for roles such as packaging engineer, product development specialist, quality assurance technician, or supply chain analyst. Graduates often work in manufacturing, design, or logistics environments, utilizing skills in materials, design software, and industry standards to develop and improve packaging solutions.

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 are popular job titles related to Packaging Science jobs in Columbia, SC?

For Packaging Science jobs in Columbia, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Packaging Science jobs in Columbia, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Packaging Science jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Packaging Science jobs?

Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Packaging Science job openings:

Packaging Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Packaging Science job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 85% In-person, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,264 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Packaging Manager

Mark Anthony Group, Inc.

Columbia, SC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Mark Anthony Group is an entrepreneurial drinks company, built from the ground up by thinking differently, innovating and doing the unexpected. Our company is rooted in family values, a bold vision and relentless determination to continuously raise the bar and make a positive difference in consumers' lives. Founded in 1972, we've grown organically from a one-person import wine business into an international drinks company whose hallmarks include a portfolio of luxury wineries and iconic beverage brands, including White Claw® Hard Seltzer, Mike's Hard Lemonade, and Cayman Jack.
Role Purpose:
The Packaging Area Manager is responsible for the active management of the Packaging Operations Department to ensure daily completion of tasks integral to the operation and overall performance of the Packaging Dept. Provides leadership and development of autonomous work groups while improving the core operations to enable the strategic direction of packaging operations. Responsible for monitoring the overall process, enforcing quality and safety standards, to assist troubleshooting, manage KPI's and inventory. This role is a combination of front-line and strategic leadership positions in packaging and will work closely with all levels of the department to ensure daily and weekly tasks are being completed on-time and according to standard operating procedures. In tandem with manufacturing excellence, this role will support development and implementation of lean processes. This role will work closely with all internal packaging departments including Brewery, Safety, Environmental, Quality, Maintenance, Central Plant, Supply Chain, Warehouse and Logistics.
Accountabilities & Impact:
  • Drive implementation of strategic plan for the packaging department.
  • Perform internal and external benchmarking, analysis, target setting, and publishing of key performance indicators (KPI).
  • Evaluate talent and make personnel decisions that create an environment of inclusiveness, mutual trust and understanding consistent with the Mark Anthony culture.
  • Develop autonomous working teams capable of managing packaging operations running on a 24/5 or 24/7 schedule.
  • Develop and maintain relationships with internal customers and external suppliers to ensure consistency among processes and procedures.
  • Manage the manufacturing process for our products with an emphasis on People, Quality, Customer Service, Cost, and Community
  • Manage proprietary information and processes.
  • Measure performance against department budget through routine monitoring and develop actions to drive financial results.
  • Develop talent and allocate resources to identify and assist with the implementation of manufacturing process improvements.

Strategic Planning (20%)
  • Assist in developing and implementing strategic plan to the Packaging team.
  • Developing, implementing, and sustaining lean processes.
  • Communication of Packaging department priorities.

Team & Leadership Functions (40%)
  • Ensure Safety and Quality are at the forefront of all activities for all Packaging team members.
  • Actively mentor and coach packaging operators, leads, and supervisors and ensure focus of the team is on safety, quality, efficiency, and continuous improvement.
  • Drive the packaging safety policies and procedures, including wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as well as adhering to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs).
  • Ensure continuous operation of process equipment through active operator management, process monitoring and troubleshooting.
  • Effectively communicate job knowledge and process changes to the operations team members and management through various forms of daily communication (shift handover meeting, daily production meetings, email, action logs, work orders, etc).

Technical Functions (20%)
  • Ensure tasks in packaging, sanitation, quality and maintenance are completed per MAB standards.
  • Ensure adherence to ISO, GMP, JSA, and HACCP food safety programs as it relates to the manufacturing process.
  • Drive quality and reproducibility of results through routine packaging performance audits.
  • Audit documentation to ensure it is completed which certifies completion of inventory checks, quality inspections, sanitation requirements, production following SOP's, and basic maintenance tasks.
  • Drive preventative and routine maintenance programs including operator check and lubrication of machinery and equipment.

Logistical Functions (20%)
  • Ensure safety, mechanical, and electrical issues reported by the operators are being dealt with in a timely manner.
  • Ensure that inventory levels are accurate and managed to meet scheduled production.
  • Packaging operations including day-to-day production scheduling.

Skills & Experiences Needed:
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Food Science, Business Administration, Supply Chain, or a related field Strongly Preferred; equivalent leadership experience in a high-speed manufacturing environment may be considered in lieu of a degree.
  • 7+ years of manufacturing experience with increasing levels of responsibility
  • 5+ years of supervisory experience in high-speed manufacturing environment, including successful management of direct reports across all shifts in 24/7 operation
  • Lean Methodology including but not limited to 5S, CIL, Centerline, A3, etc.
  • On-call 24 hours to support operations.
  • GMP, HAACP, food safety knowledge preferred.

The Packaging Area Manager position is well-suited for you if you have/are:
  • Proven ability to develop, motivate, and empower employees while fostering an environment that promotes teamwork and collaboration.
  • Proven experience troubleshooting breakdowns within a process environment.
  • Problem solving with non-traditional thinking, critical thinking, and efficient decision making to ensure that all measurable are met.
  • Ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects at one time.
  • Ability to manage and implement quality requirements including product specifications and sensory evaluation.
  • Thorough understanding of cleaning and sanitation technology in food and beverage plants.
  • Proficient in the identification, management and resolution of risk relating to raw materials, ingredients, processes and products, and willingness to proactively take necessary precautions to minimize risk.
  • Demonstrated leadership skills with proven ability to negotiate and influence effectively with internal and external partners.
  • Ability to make quick decisions with limited information that are in the best interest of the company.
  • Strong work ethic and willingness to take on any task.
  • Reliable and punctual - must adhere to attendance and absenteeism policy.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and prioritize work while multitasking.
  • Ability to provide and receive constructive feedback.
  • Works well with team.
  • Works with sense of urgency.

Working conditions:
  • Fast-paced and constantly changing work environment.
  • Shift work including days, evenings, overnight shifts, and up to 12 hrs.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to stand/move 8-12 hours per day.
  • Ability to ascend/descend stairs/ladders throughout shift.
  • Must wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including (but not limited to) bump cap, safety steel toe shoes, safety glasses, dust masks or PAPRs.
  • Must adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs).

At Mark Anthony, we live by our 5 Core Values every day:
Sense of Urgency
  • We value sense of urgency because we are a fast-paced company in a fast-paced industry
  • You act as if there is no tomorrow and get it done today

Authenticity
  • We value authenticity because we need to stay real
  • You are authentic, diplomatic, respectful, thoughtful and you always have the best intentions

Simplicity
  • We value simplicity; why use 50 words when you can use 5?
  • You thrive in ambiguity, are comfortable with change and bring simplicity to complex situations or grey area

Humility
  • We value humility; there is no room for egos here
  • You're not stubborn, you listen, take feedback/direction and respond quickly to changing direction. We are a team that supports each other

Trust
  • We value trust because unless we are both trusted and trusting, we will not succeed as a team
  • You put trust in others and do your best to never let anyone down

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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