Packaging Engineer

Job Title: Packaging EngineerJob DescriptionThe Packaging Engineer supports packaging engineering, material handling, and process improvement initiatives within a dynamic manufacturing environment. This role focuses on developing practical industrial packaging solutions, improving material flow, and enhancing operational efficiency through hands-on design work and close collaboration with internal teams and external suppliers. The position is ideal for a hands-on engineer or packaging designer who enjoys solving real-world manufacturing challenges and seeing their designs implemented on the production floor.Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and modify industrial packaging solutions and material handling systems using CAD software.
• Evaluate existing packaging methods and identify opportunities to improve product protection, operational efficiency, and overall cost effectiveness.
• Collaborate with suppliers and vendors to develop packaging specifications, communicate requirements, resolve quality concerns, and implement design improvements.
• Create and modify CAD drawings for packaging configurations, storage solutions, material handling equipment, and production support applications.
• Develop packaging solutions utilizing protective materials, custom dunnage, reusable containers, and other industrial packaging components.
• Support improvements to warehouse operations, material movement, and production material presentation to enhance material flow.
• Work cross-functionally with engineering, manufacturing, quality, and supply chain teams to support project execution and implementation.
• Apply packaging design principles and industry best practices to improve material protection during transportation, handling, and storage.
• Identify opportunities for process optimization, waste reduction, and continuous improvement in packaging and material handling processes.
• Provide hands-on technical support for packaging and material handling projects within an active manufacturing environment.
• Help establish and refine packaging standards, supplier requirements, and material handling processes as part of ongoing operational transformation.
• Contribute directly to the development of new material kitting and distribution operations and participate in major facility expansion initiatives.

Essential Skills

• At least 3+ years of experience in packaging design, packaging engineering, manufacturing engineering, material handling, or a related technical discipline, with direct involvement in packaging design or improvement projects.
• Strong hands-on proficiency with CAD software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, ArtiosCAD, or comparable design platforms, with the ability to independently develop and modify technical drawings and designs.
• Experience evaluating, designing, or improving packaging solutions for products or materials within a manufacturing, industrial, or operational environment.
• Experience collaborating directly with suppliers or vendors to communicate packaging requirements, troubleshoot packaging deficiencies, and implement improvements.
• Understanding of packaging materials and protective solutions, including corrugated packaging, internal dividers, dunnage, protective wrapping, and similar applications.
• Working knowledge of manufacturing operations, material handling processes, and material flow within an industrial environment.
• Ability to balance independent design responsibilities with hands-on involvement in manufacturing operations and cross-functional projects.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to identify issues, propose solutions, and drive improvements through implementation.
• Effective communication and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and maintain project momentum.
• Associate's or bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience designing packaging solutions for heavy, metal, or industrial components.
• Familiarity with corrosion prevention and moisture protection methods, including VCI materials and desiccants.
• Knowledge of ISTA packaging standards, validation procedures, and transportation testing requirements.
• Experience designing or improving returnable packaging, custom racks, material handling equipment, or kitting systems.
• Interest in working on a variety of hands-on engineering and design projects rather than repetitive design assignments.
• Ability to collaborate closely with supply chain leadership and manufacturing teams and build strong working relationships.
• Motivation to make a measurable impact by reducing inbound material damage and improving packaging efficiency.
• Interest in gaining exposure to both domestic and international supplier operations.

Work EnvironmentThis is an onsite role within a growing manufacturing facility that is undergoing significant expansion and operational transformation. The position involves approximately 60% CAD design and engineering work and 40% production-floor, warehouse, supplier coordination, and operational support. The Packaging Design Engineer works closely with on-site supply chain leadership and collaborates with manufacturing, production, quality, and external suppliers. The environment offers hands-on involvement in real-world manufacturing operations, participation in major facility expansion projects, and the opportunity to influence new warehouse-to-production material flow processes and material kitting and distribution operations. Job Type & LocationThis is a Permanent position based out of Lexington, TN. Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $100000.00 - $100000.00/yr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.Health Medical Dental vision 401K - I have a copy of the benefits for review. Job Type & LocationThis is a Permanent position based out of Lexington, TN. Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Nov 27, 2026. Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Lexington,TN.About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):

We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.