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Sr Packaging Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Smithfield Foods

Senior Packaging Engineer

Smithfield, VA · On-site

$85K - $120K/yr

As the Senior Packaging Engineer, you'll play a key role in analyzing data and drafting implementation plans to optimize our production processes. Your mission is to maximize efficiencies by ...

Addison Group

Senior Staff Packaging Engineer

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$128K - $136K/yr

Senior Staff Packaging Engineer Location: Leesburg, VA (5-15% Travel) Compensation: $128,000 - $136,000 Base Salary + Performance Bonus Potential Company Overview Our client is a leading privately ...

Addison Group

Senior Staff Packaging Engineer

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$128K - $136K/yr

Senior Staff Packaging Engineer Location: Leesburg, VA (5-15% Travel) Compensation: $128,000 - $136,000 Base Salary + Performance Bonus Potential Company Overview Our client is a leading privately ...

Fannie Mae

Desktop Packaging Engineer

Reston, VA · Hybrid

THE IMPACT YOU WILL MAKE The Desktop Packaging Engineer role is responsible for building, testing ... End User Services - Technology Engineering - Senior Associate #LI-JM1 #LI-Hybrid Qualifications ...

Fannie Mae

Desktop Packaging Engineer

Reston, VA · Hybrid

THE IMPACT YOU WILL MAKE The Desktop Packaging Engineer role is responsible for building, testing ... End User Services - Technology Engineering - Senior Associate #LI-JM1 #LI-Hybrid Qualifications ...

Fanniemae

Desktop Packaging Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site +1

THE IMPACT YOU WILL MAKE The Desktop Packaging Engineer role is responsible for building, testing ... End User Services - Technology Engineering - Senior Associate #LI-JM1 #LI-Hybrid Qualifications ...

Fannie Mae

Desktop Packaging Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

THE IMPACT YOU WILL MAKE The Desktop Packaging Engineer role is responsible for building, testing ... End User Services - Technology Engineering - Senior Associate #LI-JM1 #LI-Hybrid Qualifications ...

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All JobsSr Packaging Engineer JobsSr Packaging Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Sr Packaging Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$76.8K

$113.6K

$157.6K

How much do sr packaging engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for sr packaging engineer in Virginia is $113,591.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,700.00 and $118,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by a Sr Packaging Engineer, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Sr Packaging Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing cost efficiency with sustainability goals, ensuring packaging meets regulatory requirements, and adapting designs for automated manufacturing processes. Addressing these issues typically involves close collaboration with cross-functional teams like R&D, quality assurance, and supply chain to gather input and validate solutions. Staying updated on industry trends and technological advancements also helps in proactively identifying and overcoming obstacles in packaging design and implementation.

What is the difference between Sr Packaging Engineer vs Packaging Engineer?

AspectSr Packaging EngineerPackaging Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Packaging, Engineering, or related field; 3+ years experience; certifications like ISTA or PMP often preferredBachelor's degree in Packaging, Engineering, or related field; 1-3 years experience; certifications are optional
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, manufacturing plants, cross-functional teamsDesign, testing, and production environments, often under supervision
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturers, consumer goods, pharmaceuticals, food & beverageSimilar industries, entry to mid-level roles in packaging departments

The main difference between a Sr Packaging Engineer and a Packaging Engineer lies in experience, responsibilities, and expertise. Sr Packaging Engineers typically lead projects, make strategic decisions, and have more advanced certifications, while Packaging Engineers focus on executing design and testing tasks under supervision. Both roles are vital in packaging development within manufacturing industries.

What are Sr Packaging Engineers?

Sr Packaging Engineers are experienced professionals who design, develop, and improve packaging solutions for products, ensuring they are safe, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly. They oversee packaging projects from concept to production, working closely with cross-functional teams such as product development, manufacturing, and quality assurance. Their responsibilities often include selecting materials, conducting tests, ensuring regulatory compliance, and optimizing packaging for sustainability and efficiency. As senior engineers, they may also mentor junior staff and drive innovation within their organization.

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

To thrive as a Sr Packaging Engineer, you need a strong background in packaging design, materials science, and engineering, often supported by a bachelor’s degree in packaging, mechanical, or industrial engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, packaging testing equipment, and knowledge of industry standards such as ISTA and ASTM is typically required. Strong project management, problem-solving, and cross-functional communication skills set exceptional candidates apart. These capabilities ensure the development of innovative, cost-effective, and compliant packaging solutions that meet product protection and sustainability goals.
What are popular job titles related to Sr Packaging Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Sr Packaging Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Sr Packaging Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Sr Packaging Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Sr Packaging Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Sr Packaging Engineer job openings:
Sr Packaging Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sr Packaging Engineer job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,591 per year, or $54.6 per hour.

Senior Packaging Engineer

Smithfield Foods, Inc.

Smithfield, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

If you are currently employed at Smithfield, please log into Workday and submit your application through the Jobs Hub.
Have a seat at our table. When you join Smithfield, you become part of something special - a company that's sustainably feeding people around the world, producing good food the right way with respect for our people, animals, communities and planet. With opportunities across locations and functions, a culture grounded in our Core Four values - gratitude, communication, respect and accountability - and a strong commitment to learning, collaboration, and innovation, Smithfield offers challenging and rewarding careers where you can grow, contribute and make a real impact. Apply Now!
THE VALUE YOU'LL BRING:
As the Senior Packaging Engineer, you'll play a key role in analyzing data and drafting implementation plans to optimize our production processes. Your mission is to maximize efficiencies by eliminating waste and reducing operating costs, directly impacting our bottom line. You'll be instrumental in the manufacturing of our renowned brands, including Smithfield, Eckrich, and Nathan's Famous, ensuring we meet the needs of our customers and consumers.
In this role, you'll interface with our operating facilities and suppliers to develop and implement best practices for packaging equipment and materials. Your expertise will help us maintain high standards and innovate in our packaging processes.
WHAT YOU'LL DO:
The below statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. May perform other duties as assigned.
  • Strategy and Execution: You will be responsible for designing and executing packaging technology strategies from concept to commercialization, including growth initiatives, quality improvements, productivity/cost-reduction activities, troubleshooting activities, and general packaging support, as needed. You will conduct trials to ensure efficient and effective execution.
  • Relationship Building: You will build and maintain relationships with internal and external resources in order to cost-effectively implement engineering and equipment initiatives. You will routinely communicate with members of Operations, Sales, Marketing, Sourcing, Engineering and Quality Assurance to report progress on projects and receive feedback to develop product that meet expectations.
  • Best Practices and Innovation: You will leverage best practices and capitalize on technologies with cross-functional, cross-site business applications. You will promote innovative thinking to generate unique and value-added ideas for existing or new products.
  • Equipment and Specifications: You will develop and maintain equipment specifications to determine overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) on packaging equipment.
  • Mentorship: You will act as a lead by training, mentoring, and providing guidance to less experienced packaging engineers.

WHAT WE'RE SEEKING:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions.
  • Bachelor's Degree from an accredited four-year college or university in Engineering or related field and 5+ years related experience in process and packaging equipment required; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Energized by collaboration through travel to other locations depending on the initiative being executed.

OTHER SKILLS THAT MAKE YOU STAND OUT:
  • Broad knowledge of packaging materials, equipment and manufacturing processes including plant layouts.
  • Experience in the food industry, preferred.
  • General knowledge of food science, processing and manufacturing, preferred.
  • Strong oral and written communication skills.
  • Strong time management, project management, organizational skills and the ability to work independently.
  • Possesses good research and development capabilities, including experimental design, familiarity with packaging testing methodology and experience in commercialization.
  • Ability to work well with others in fast paced, dynamic environment.
  • Ability to be respectful, approachable and team oriented while building strong working relationships and a positive work environment.
  • Ability to understand and manipulate both packaging and pallet specifications.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT:
  • Mobility: Some positions may involve frequent bending, moving, lifting, and carrying materials weighing up to 50 pounds. In more physically demanding roles, this weight may go up to 70 pounds.
  • Standing: You may need to stand for up to eight hours each day, especially during site visits or meetings.
  • Weather Conditions: Depending on the job context, you might work in various weather conditions, including exposure to outdoor elements.
  • Terrain: If you visit project sites, you may encounter uneven terrain, so mobility and adaptability are essential.

IndSPR-Corp
The expected pay range for this position is $85,000 - $120,000 annually.
Smithfield Foods provides pay ranges that reflect its good faith estimate of the salary or hourly wage the company reasonably expects to pay for a position at the time of hire. Individual compensation will be determined based on several factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the role, location of the position, the candidate's qualifications and experience, internal equity, external market pay for comparable positions and budget considerations. At Smithfield Foods, base pay represents only one aspect of the comprehensive total rewards package. Learn more about our benefits package here.
Relocation Package AvailableYes
EEO Information
Smithfield is an equal opportunity employer committed to workplace diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, gender identity, protected veterans status, status as a disabled individual or any other protected group status or non-job characteristic as directed by law.
If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment selection process, please call us at 757-357-1595.

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