Packaging Developer

Packaging Developer (Food Manufacturing)

Salary: 40000 - 42000

Location: Northamptonshire

Work Pattern: Hybrid (3 days in the office 2 days WFH)

About the role

I am currently looking for an experienced Packaging Developer to join a dynamic food manufacturing business helping to design and deliver innovative sustainable and commercially successful packaging solutions across a diverse product portfolio.

This is an exciting opportunity to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment taking packaging concepts from idea through to launch. Youll play a key role in developing packaging that meets consumer expectations operational requirements regulatory standards and sustainability commitments while collaborating with cross-functional teams across the business.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop primary secondary and tertiary packaging solutions for new product development and existing product improvements.
• Provide technical expertise packaging options and prototypes throughout the product development process.
• Create maintain and manage accurate packaging specifications.
• Plan coordinate and lead packaging trials including documentation risk assessment and reporting.
• Work closely with Manufacturing Engineering Quality and Operations teams to validate packaging performance and resolve technical issues.
• Ensure packaging complies with relevant quality food safety legal and regulatory requirements.
• Drive sustainability initiatives through material selection recyclability improvements and continuous innovation.
• Collaborate with suppliers to support technical developments troubleshooting and cost-effective packaging solutions.
• Keep up to date with emerging packaging technologies materials and industry legislation.
• Manage packaging activities within a stage-gate project process ensuring key milestones are delivered on time.
• Support wider business initiatives including value engineering and continuous improvement projects.

About You

Were looking for someone who brings:

• Experience in packaging development within FMCG food manufacturing or a similar production environment.
• Strong technical knowledge of packaging materials manufacturing processes and packaging performance.
• An understanding of packaging sustainability principles and relevant UK and EU legislation.
• Experience planning and leading packaging trials and solving technical challenges.
• The ability to create and maintain detailed packaging specifications.
• Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with commercial awareness.
• A collaborative approach and the ability to build effective relationships across multiple functions.
• A proactive mindset with a passion for innovation and continuous improvement.

Benefits

• Annual bonus
• Double-matched pension scheme (up to 12% from us)
• 25 days annual leave increasing with service
• Annual Salary review
• Healthcare plan