Packaging Development - Assistant Manager

Job Title: Assistant Manager – Packaging Development
Location: Chennai
Experience: 8+ years
Employment Type: Full-time

About The Indus Valley

At The Indus Valley, our mission is simple yet powerful: make every Indian kitchen healthier and safer. We are India’s fastest-growing D2C cookware brand, loved by millions for our toxin-free, sustainable, and innovative products. We believe packaging is not just a box—it’s the first touchpoint of trust with our customers and a key lever for sustainability.

Role Overview

We are seeking a detail-oriented and innovative Assistant Manager – Packaging Development to lead the design, validation, and execution of world-class packaging solutions. The role demands a strong technical background, eco-friendly mindset, and the ability to balance innovation, cost, and compliance. This is a high-impact role, driving packaging excellence across product categories while contributing to our larger sustainability goals.

Key Responsibilities

Packaging Design & Innovation

• Develop innovative, customer-friendly packaging for new and existing product lines.
• Work across multiple materials: corrugated boxes, multilayer films, wooden pallets, ESD foams, PET straps, and eco-friendly alternatives.
• Ensure packaging aesthetics and functionality reflect our brand promise of health, safety, and trust.

Sustainability & Process Excellence

• Drive sustainable packaging initiatives, reducing material waste and carbon footprint.
• Identify cost optimization opportunities without compromising safety and quality.
• Continuously improve packaging processes, efficiency, and recyclability.

Testing & Validation

• Conduct rigorous packaging tests (ASTM, ISTA 2A/3A, ISO 11607, etc.) to ensure durability, safety, and compliance.
• Lead root cause analysis and implement corrective actions on packaging failures.

Vendor & Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Handle packaging vendors directly—from design to launch—ensuring timelines and quality.
• Partner with suppliers to co-develop new materials and drive quality improvements.
• Work closely with R&D, Production, Procurement, and Quality teams to ensure packaging aligns with business and operational needs.

Documentation & Compliance

• Maintain updated packaging specifications, inspection protocols, and validation reports.
• Ensure compliance with national and international packaging standards.
• Oversee packaging compliance with Legal Metrology Act requirements for cookware, pressure cookers, and other regulated products.

Qualifications & Skills

Education

• B.E/B.Tech in Mechanical / Packaging / Printing Technology (Mandatory)
• M.E/M.Tech in Packaging / Printing Technology (Preferred)

Experience

• 8+ years in packaging development, testing, and validation.
• Mandatory: Prior experience in kitchenware or appliance industry.

Technical Skills

• Strong knowledge of ISO, ASTM, ISTA packaging standards.
• Proficiency in MS Office, AutoCAD, SolidWorks.
• Familiarity with eco-friendly materials, recyclability, and cost optimization techniques.
• Knowledge of Legal Metrology compliance related to cookware, pressure cookers, and other regulated products.

Soft Skills & Attributes

• Individual performer with the ability to drive results independently.
• Strong communication, vendor management, and project leadership skills.
• Team player with a bias for action, thriving in a fast-paced, high-agency environment.
• Open to feedback, adaptable, and comfortable working in a lean team setup.
• Analytical and problem-solving mindset with high ownership.

Why Join Us?

• Impact: Shape the future of sustainable packaging for one of India’s most loved D2C brands.
• Innovation: Work with cutting-edge packaging technologies and eco-friendly solutions.
• Growth: Be part of a fast-scaling startup culture that values ownership, accountability, and continuous learning.
• Rewards: Competitive salary, performance-linked incentives, and professional development opportunities.

At The Indus Valley, integrity, health, and innovation are not just values—they are our way of life. If you’re driven to make a difference in how India experiences safe and sustainable packaging, we’d love to have you on board.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: Up to ₹800,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Internet reimbursement
• Paid sick time
• Paid time off
• Provident Fund

Location:

• Perungudi, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (Preferred)

Work Location: In person