Packaging Development & Engineering Manager

Markdale, ON

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced and results-driven Packaging Development & Engineering Manager to lead technical development, commercialization, and continuous improvement of packaging solutions across our product portfolio.

This role is responsible for the engineering, performance, and implementation of packaging systems that support product quality, manufacturing efficiency, supply chain performance, sustainability objectives, and cost optimization. Working cross-functionally with Operations, Quality, Procurement, Sales, Marketing, and external suppliers, the successful candidate will lead packaging initiatives from concept through commercialization and production launch.

This is a highly technical role focused on packaging engineering, materials, manufacturing integration, validation, and continuous improvement. While supporting packaging artwork execution and changing management activities, the primary focus is the development and implementation of packaging solutions that perform reliably throughout manufacturing, distribution, retail, and consumer use.

Key Responsibilities

Packaging Development & Commercialization

• Lead the technical development, qualification, and commercialization of packaging solutions for new and existing products.
• Manage packaging projects from concept through manufacturing implementation, validation, and market launch.
• Develop packaging specifications, standards, testing protocols, and technical documentation.
• Evaluate packaging materials, structures, components, and technologies to meet performance, sustainability, regulatory, and cost objectives.
• Conduct packaging trials, line testing, validation studies, and scale-up activities in manufacturing environments.
• Collaborate with suppliers, converters, and packaging manufacturers to identify innovative solutions and support continuous improvement initiatives.

Manufacturing & Operational Excellence

• Analyze packaging performance and resolve issues impacting manufacturing efficiency, product protection, shelf life, transportation, and consumer experience.
• Support manufacturing operations through troubleshooting, root cause analysis, corrective actions, and process improvements.
• Ensure packaging designs are optimized for manufacturing equipment, operational efficiency, and supply chain requirements.
• Drive packaging standardization, material optimization, and cost reduction initiatives.

Regulatory Compliance & Quality

• Ensure compliance with applicable food packaging regulations, labeling requirements, environmental standards, customer specifications, and internal quality standards.
• Establish and maintain packaging validation programs and testing requirements.
• Support quality investigations and packaging-related corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).

Cross-Functional Leadership

• Collaborate closely with Production, Engineering, Purchasing, Quality Assurance, Sales, Marketing, and external stakeholders throughout product development and commercialization activities.
• Support packaging artwork implementation, specification approvals, and change management processes.
• Provide technical expertise and recommendations regarding packaging technologies, materials, sustainability initiatives, and emerging industry trends.

Leadership & Resource Management

• Manage departmental priorities, project portfolios, budgets, KPIs, reporting, and resource allocation.
• Lead and develop team members while fostering a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Establish project timelines and ensure successful execution of packaging initiatives across the organization.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Packaging Technology, or a related technical discipline.
• 5+ years of experience in packaging development, packaging engineering, product commercialization, or manufacturing environments, preferably within food, consumer packaged goods (CPG), or consumer products industries.
• Demonstrated experience leading packaging projects from concept through commercialization and production launch.
• Strong understanding of packaging materials, including flexible films, paperboard, corrugated packaging, plastics, labels, and sustainable packaging solutions.
• Experience conducting packaging trials, validation testing, manufacturing implementation, and root cause investigations.
• Knowledge of packaging machinery, manufacturing processes, and line performance considerations.
• Familiarity with transportation testing, shelf-life evaluation, product protection requirements, and packaging performance standards.
• Experience working directly with packaging suppliers, converters, printers, and contract manufacturers.
• Strong knowledge of packaging regulations, labeling requirements, and industry standards.
• Proven project management, problem-solving, communication, and cross-functional leadership skills.
• Experience managing teams, budgets, project portfolios, and performance metrics.
• Skillful use of graphic design software, including Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, etc.)

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience within food manufacturing or consumer packaged goods environments.
• Familiarity with packaging artwork workflows, die lines, print production, and specification management systems.
• Knowledge of sustainability programs, packaging optimization initiatives, and environmental compliance requirements.
• Experience with packaging development software, Epson Sure Color SC-P9570SE 12 color printer, specification systems, or project management platforms.

Core Competencies

• Technical expertise in packaging engineering and materials science.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Project management and organizational leadership.
• Manufacturing and commercialization experience.
• Supplier relationship management and collaboration.
• Continuous improvement mindset.
• Effective communication and stakeholder management.
• Strategic thinking with strong execution skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Working Conditions

• Average work week of 44+ hours, with flexibility required during product launches, manufacturing trials, and key project milestones.
• Combination of office, manufacturing, and supplier environments.
• Regular involvement in plant trials, packaging evaluations, validation activities, and supplier visits.
• Occasional travel may be required to manufacturing facilities, suppliers, customers, or industry events.

What We Offer

• Opportunities for professional growth and development
• Permanent, year-round positions
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Group home and auto insurance
• Active social committee
• Subsidized lunches at our on-site cafeteria
• Work at a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Markdale, Ontario
• The chance to join an international, award-winning business - the largest ice cream manufacturer in Canada
• A positive workplace culture where we take pride in what we do and strive for excellence
• Free ice cream!

Salary Range

$80,000 - $120,000 salary range

In addition to wages, employees will be eligible for:

• Regular wage reviews as part of a comprehensive total rewards package
• Retirement savings program, including a company-matching pension plan to support long-term financial planning
• Comprehensive extended health, dental, life, and disability benefits
• Mental health support as part of the benefits program

Disclaimer

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work to be performed. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time and as needed.

We thank all those that apply in advance for your application, however only those selected will be contacted, no phone inquiries please.