Manager, Packaging Engineer
About this role
Work Location: Chicago
Due to the highly interactive and team-based nature of this role, in-person attendance for most of the workweek (i.e., 3 days or more) is essential for: effective communication including during in-person meetings, strong supervision, real-time problem-solving, and participation in cross-functional initiatives.
Want to make an impact?
The Packaging Manager is responsible for leading and developing a team of Packaging Engineers while driving the design, development, and commercialization of packaging solutions across Ferrara's confection and fruit snack portfolio. This role provides strategic and technical leadership to support innovation, sustainability, operational excellence, and continuous improvement initiatives, partnering closely with cross-functional teams to deliver packaging solutions that meet consumer, business, and manufacturing needs.
Ways you will make a difference
- Lead, coach, and develop a team of Packaging Engineers, fostering a culture of engagement, accountability, and continuous learning.
- Set team priorities, manage workloads, and provide strategic direction for packaging development and commercialization activities.
- Oversee the design, testing, qualification, and implementation of primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging solutions.
- Partner cross-functionally with R&D, Operations, Engineering, Procurement, Marketing, and external suppliers to support new product launches and packaging innovation.
- Drive packaging innovation, sustainability, and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance product quality, manufacturing efficiency, and consumer experience.
- Identify and evaluate new packaging technologies, materials, and supplier capabilities to support business objectives.
- Provide technical expertise and recommendations to leadership and key stakeholders on packaging-related opportunities and challenges.
Skills that will make you successful
- Strong project management, communication, and cross-functional leadership skills.
- Experience with SAP, PLM system
- Proven experience leading, coaching, and developing technical teams
- Strong knowledge of packaging materials, manufacturing processes, testing methods, and commercialization activities
- Experience working in a food manufacturing, consumer packaged goods (CPG), or similar fast-paced environment preferred.
Experiences that will support your success
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering,
- 5+ years of experience in packaging engineering, packaging development, or a related field.
What We Offer
At Ferrara, we're proud to support our employees with comprehensive benefits that enhance health, financial wellness, and include paid time off (PTO). Eligible employees may also receive an annual bonus based on company performance. Learn more about our benefits at https://flimp.live/Ferrara-Benefits-Resource-Center
Compensation
The salary range for this role is $102,075 - $142,905 annually.
Company at a glance
For generations, Ferrara has created sugar confections that enable moments of sweetness, celebration, and connection for candy lovers. Today, Ferrara is the #1 sugar confectioner in the U.S. with global sales in more than 60 countries. Ferrara boasts a passionate team of over 9,400 employees around the world who deliver and create hundreds of iconic and beloved products. A career at Ferrara means you’re an integral member of a wider community. Ferrara Group is a part of a global family of distinct yet connected companies united by a passion for quality, innovation and delight.
In the U.S., more than 91 million households annually enjoy our popular brands like NERDS®, Brach’s®, Jelly Belly®, SweeTARTS®, Laffy Taffy®, and Trolli®. In Brazil, Dori has become a household name with snacking products that include brands such as Dori, Gomets, Pettiz, and Yogurte 100. And, in France, Carambar & Co has earned generations of loyal customers through the timeless appeal of iconic candy and chocolate brands such as Carambar, Lutti, Krema, Poulain, Vichy and Terry’s.
A privately held company, Ferrara Group is headquartered in Chicago, with a network of more than 30 locations in North America, South America, Europe, and Asia Pacific that includes manufacturing, distribution, sales, and R&D facilities.
Top Benefits
- Health benefits
- Financial wellness programs
- Paid time off
- Annual bonus
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