Packaging Development Specialist

Key responsibilities:

1. Design, plan and execute packaging qualification programs for new and existing rigid packaging across development, scale-up and supplier change control.
2. Perform hands-on laboratory tests and simulations, including but not limited to: drop, compression, vibration, shock, tilt, stack, thermal cycling, humidity, transit simulation and seal integrity.
3. Develop and maintain test protocols, test plans, SOPs, and acceptance criteria aligned to business requirements and industry best practices (e.g., ISTA/ASTM/ISO where applicable).
4. Create sample handling, conditioning and fixture set-ups for reproducible results on rigid formats (glass, metal, rigid plastics).
5. Collect, analyze and interpret test data; prepare technical reports with clear conclusions and recommended corrective actions.
6. Work with R&D, Quality, Operations and Suppliers to implement packaging improvements and qualifying supplier changes (PPAP / packaging change documentation).
7. Lead root-cause analysis (RCA) for packaging failures; generate and track CAPAs and follow through to closure.
8. Estimate and monitor test budgets, lab resources and third-party test house usage.
9. Support shelf-life, accelerated aging, and stability testing as applicable.
10. Maintain test equipment calibration and lab safety / compliance records.

Required qualifications & experience:

1. 3–5 years’ hands-on experience in packaging testing & qualification with a focus on rigid packaging.
2. Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Technology or Post Graduation from IIP/SIES.
3. Demonstrated experience running common packaging tests and ansit simulations.
4. Strong report writing skills and experience producing technical qualification documentation.
5. Proficiency with data analysis and report making tools (Excel; experience with Minitab, JMP or similar is a plus).
6. Knowledge of packaging failure analysis techniques and basic materials behavior (glass, metal, rigid plastics).
7. Good communication skills — able to translate technical results into actionable recommendations for cross-functional teams.
8. Detail-oriented, organized, and able to manage multiple qualification projects simultaneously.