GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
We are seeking a proactive and technically skilled Packaging Technologist to lead the development, specification, and continuous improvement of packaging solutions across our beverage portfolio.
Operating within a fast-paced SME drinks manufacturing environment, this role combines packaging innovation with operational efficiency, commercial awareness, quality compliance, and sustainability focus.
The successful candidate will play a key role in delivering fit-for-purpose, cost-effective, and compliant packaging solutions that support manufacturing performance, product integrity, and brand excellence.
MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES
Packaging Development
· Develop and maintain specifications for primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging including glass bottles, cans, closures, labels, cartons, and shrink wrap.
· Lead packaging activities for new product launches and customer-led projects.
· Evaluate and introduce new packaging materials, formats, and technologies.
· Plan and execute packaging trials and validation activities on production lines.
· Review and approve packaging artwork from a technical and compliance perspective.
Factory Trials & Line Compatibility
- Coordinate and support packaging trials across bottling and canning operations.
- Ensure packaging compatibility with filling, labelling, packing, and palletising equipment.
- Investigate and resolve packaging-related production issues such as:
- label application defects
- closure torque variation
- bottle/can damage
- scuffing
- pallet instability
- Collaborate closely with Engineering and Production teams to improve line performance and operational efficiency.
Supplier & Stakeholder Management
· Work closely with packaging suppliers to obtain technical data, specifications, and samples.
· Support supplier approval and onboarding processes.
· Monitor supplier quality and performance standards.
· Provide technical expertise to Procurement during supplier negotiations and sourcing activities.
Cost Optimisation & Commercial Support
· Maintain accurate packaging specifications and cost information.
· Identify and implement cost-saving and value-engineering opportunities without compromising product quality or performance.
· Contribute to margin improvement initiatives through packaging optimisation.
Quality, Compliance & Food Safety
· Ensure all packaging complies with food safety, legal, and regulatory requirements.
· Maintain packaging technical documentation and specification databases.
· Support HACCP and wider food safety systems relating to packaging materials and processes.
· Ensure compliance with labelling legislation and relevant industry standards.
· Assist with sustainability reporting and environmental compliance requirements.
Sustainability & Continuous Improvement
- Drive initiatives to reduce packaging waste and material usage.
- Lead projects focused on recyclability, lightweighting, and alternative sustainable materials.
- Monitor packaging performance and identify continuous improvement opportunities.
- Stay informed on emerging packaging technologies, sustainability trends, and regulatory developments.
Knowledge, experience, and skills required:
· Degree or diploma in Packaging Technology, Food Science, Engineering, or a related discipline.
· 3–5 years’ experience within packaging development in food or beverage manufacturing.
· Strong technical understanding of packaging materials including glass, aluminium, and flexible films.
· Experience supporting factory trials and manufacturing operations.
· Knowledge of food safety, packaging compliance, and labelling regulations.
· Strong analytical and problem-solving capability.
· Excellent attention to detail and project management skills.
· Commercial awareness with the ability to balance quality, performance, and cost.
· Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
Desirable
· Experience within bottling and/or canning operations.
· Knowledge of sustainability initiatives and recyclable packaging solutions.
· Experience working within an SME manufacturing environment.
Please note that we are not able to offer sponsorship for this role
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