Packaging Procurement Engineer

Petoskey Plastics aspires to stand out as an industry leader in sustainability, using advanced recycling technology to manufacture high-quality films, bags, and resins from post-consumer materials. Our commitment to eco-friendly innovation sets us apart, as we strive to earn the appreciation and respect of our customers, associates, and communities. If you are seeking a family-oriented company that values career growth and provides robust paid training, explore the comprehensive benefits listed below to see how Petoskey Plastics can support your professional journey.

We’re headquartered in Petoskey where our Lake Michigan shores are clasped by rhythmic waves of seafoam and cobalt. We’re honored to have roots in Texas, Tennessee, and Indiana as our production has expanded over the years. Our custom-engineered solutions tackle a variety of industries, including automotive, industrial, institutional, retail, construction, home improvement, medical, and more.

Always moving forward! > IN THE NEWS

A few of our over 20 competitive benefits:

• Medical, Prescription, Dental, and Vision benefits - valued at $4/hr over your base pay!

• PTO

• Petoskey Plastics pays 3% of your annual earnings into your 401k regardless of your contribution!

• Profit Sharing

• Tuition Reimbursement

• Wellness Reimbursement (up to $400 annually)

• Life Insurance

• Short- and Long-Term Disability

The Packaging Procurement Engineer position serves as the company subject matter expert in corrugated packaging and related packaging materials. This role is responsible for developing category strategies, managing supplier relationships, identifying cost-saving opportunities, optimizing packaging performance, and driving total cost of ownership improvements across multiple manufacturing locations. The position collaborates closely with Operations, Commercial, Engineering, and Procurement teams to successfully execute strategic initiatives and packaging projects.

Responsibilities

• Performing buying duties by creating purchase orders for raw materials to support production schedules across multiple plant locations
• Managing and optimizing raw material inventory
• Utilize Epicor ERP system to optimize ordering process
• Establish and execute category strategies for corrugated packaging and related materials.
• Build and maintain relationships with key corrugated packaging suppliers.
• Travel to plant locations to identify packaging improvements and cost reduction opportunities.
• Analyze market conditions, industry indexes, pricing trends, and cost drivers affecting corrugated packaging.
• Conduct RFQs and develop cost models to evaluate total cost of ownership opportunities.
• Lead packaging optimization and standardization projects from concept through implementation.
• Manage supplier performance for quality, delivery, service, and cost competitiveness.
• Identify supply chain risks and develop mitigation plans with cross-functional teams.
• Publish regular project status updates and communicate project risks, issues, and achievements to leadership.
• Collaborate with Operations, Quality, Engineering, and Commercial teams to implement packaging improvements.
• Utilize ERP systems and other business tools to support procurement and project activities.
• Other duties as assigned by leadership.

Qualifications

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Packaging Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Supply Chain Management, or a related field preferred.

Experience

• 3+ years of packaging engineering and manufacturing experience with corrugated and paper-based products.
• 3+ years of procurement experience, managing P2P processes, and optimizing supply base
• Experience in corrugated, paper, plastics, or related packaging manufacturing is preferred.
• Experience developing cost models and managing complex projects.
• Experience with supplier relationship management and contract administration.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities

• Strong technical knowledge of corrugated packaging products and manufacturing processes.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Strong project management and organizational skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively and influence stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
• Understanding of corrugated contracts, pricing mechanisms, and industry indexes.
• Strong negotiation and supplier management skills.
• Experience with Microsoft Office, SharePoint, ERP systems, and project management tools.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities with minimal supervision.

Essential Functions

• Regular and Reliable Attendance
• Standing
• Sitting
• Walking
• Lifting/Carrying up to 30 pounds
• Reading
• Writing
• Problem Solving
• Decision Making
• Concentration
• Travel to manufacturing plants and suppliers as required