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Sustainable Packaging Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Packaging Engineer

Romeoville, IL · On-site

$135K - $145K/yr

Drive cost reduction, sustainability, and packaging performance improvement initiatives * Stay current on packaging innovations, materials, and industry trends Qualifications: * Bachelor's degree in ...

Packaging Engineer II

Vista, CA · On-site

$85K - $103K/yr

Sustainability Leadership: Partner with suppliers and professional organizations to push the limitations of sustainable packaging and integrate ESG goals into the packaging roadmap. * Technical SME:

Packaging Engineer II

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$85K - $103K/yr

Sustainability Leadership: Partner with suppliers and professional organizations to push the limitations of sustainable packaging and integrate ESG goals into the packaging roadmap. * Technical SME:

Packaging Engineer

Juncos, PR · On-site

$70 - $100/hr

ABOUT THE ROLE A Packaging Engineer designs, develops, and tests protective, cost-effective, and sustainable packaging solutions for products. They ensure product safety during transport, manage ...

Packaging Engineer

Juncos, PR · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

ABOUT THE ROLE A Packaging Engineer designs, develops, and tests protective, cost-effective, and sustainable packaging solutions for products. They ensure product safety during transport, manage ...

Packaging Engineer II

Richmond, VA · On-site

$50K - $80K/yr

We design and manufacture innovative, sustainable packaging components for cold-chain shipping of food and pharmaceutical products. The markets we serve have an urgent need for disruptive ...

Evaluate and select appropriate packaging materials, balancing cost, sustainability, and product protection requirements. * Define packaging performance test plans and execute testing in accordance ...

Pioneer sustainable packaging that's beautiful and responsible - recycle ready, eco-materials, reduced waste * Create innovative design systems that balance brand consistency with category ...

Support sustainable package design efforts that reduce material usage, enable recyclability and/or incorporate PCR * Work closely with internal and external manufacturing partners to deliver products ...

Sustainability & Compliance * Lead packaging engineering efforts supporting organizational sustainability objectives. * Develop packaging solutions that reduce material consumption, waste ...

New

Support sustainable package design efforts that reduce material usage, enable recyclability and/or incorporate PCR * Work closely with internal and external manufacturing partners to deliver products ...

Monitor and report on sustainable packaging performance metrics such as cost, carbon footprint, and waste reduction. * Stay up to date with industry trends and emerging sustainable packaging ...

Monitor and report on sustainable packaging performance metrics such as cost, carbon footprint, and waste reduction. * Stay up to date with industry trends and emerging sustainable packaging ...

New

Monitor and report on sustainable packaging performance metrics such as cost, carbon footprint, and waste reduction. * Stay up to date with industry trends and emerging sustainable packaging ...

Packaging Engineer Intern

Niles, IL · On-site

$23 - $43/hr

Monitor and report on sustainable packaging performance metrics such as cost, carbon footprint, and waste reduction. * Stay up to date with industry trends and emerging sustainable packaging ...

Showing results 21-40

Sustainable Packaging information

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$12

$18

$27

How much do sustainable packaging jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for sustainable packaging in the United States is $18.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is sustainable packaging?

Sustainable packaging refers to the development and use of packaging solutions that have minimal environmental impact and footprint. This typically involves materials that are recyclable, biodegradable, or made from renewable resources, as well as designs that reduce waste and improve efficiency across the supply chain. The goal of sustainable packaging is to protect products while also conserving resources, reducing pollution, and supporting a circular economy. Companies are increasingly adopting sustainable packaging practices in response to consumer demand and regulatory requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in sustainable packaging?

To thrive in Sustainable Packaging, you need a solid background in materials science, environmental studies, or packaging engineering, often supported by a relevant degree or certifications like ISTA Certified Packaging Laboratory Professional (CPLP). Familiarity with life cycle assessment (LCA) tools, packaging design software, and regulatory compliance systems is essential. Creativity, strong problem-solving skills, and effective communication are important soft skills for collaborating with cross-functional teams and innovating eco-friendly solutions. These skills and qualities are crucial for developing packaging that meets sustainability goals while aligning with business and regulatory requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in sustainable packaging roles?

Professionals in sustainable packaging often encounter challenges such as balancing environmental goals with cost constraints, sourcing eco-friendly materials that meet product requirements, and staying updated with rapidly evolving regulations. Collaboration across departments—such as design, supply chain, and marketing—is essential to ensure packaging solutions are both sustainable and practical for mass production. Additionally, measuring and communicating the true environmental impact of alternative packaging solutions can require specialized knowledge and cross-functional coordination.

What is the difference between Sustainable Packaging vs Packaging Designer?

AspectSustainable PackagingPackaging Designer
CredentialsEnvironmental certifications, design knowledgeDesign degrees, creative skills
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, eco-focused companiesDesign studios, marketing departments
Industry UsageEco-conscious brands, packaging firmsConsumer goods, branding

Sustainable Packaging focuses on creating eco-friendly packaging solutions, emphasizing environmental impact and materials. Packaging Designers develop visual and functional packaging designs, often balancing aesthetics with usability. While both roles involve packaging, Sustainable Packaging professionals prioritize sustainability and materials, whereas Packaging Designers focus on design and branding. Understanding these differences helps companies find the right expertise for eco-friendly and attractive packaging solutions.

More about Sustainable Packaging jobs

What cities are hiring for Sustainable Packaging jobs?

Cities with the most Sustainable Packaging job openings:

What states have the most Sustainable Packaging jobs?

States with the most job openings for Sustainable Packaging jobs include:

Infographic showing various Sustainable Packaging job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,198 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

Packaging Engineer

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Romeoville, IL • On-site

$135K - $145K/yr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 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.