R&D Engineer - Flexibles, blown film production experience

Job Description

Reporting directly to the Associate Director of Research & Development as an R&D Engineer, you will drive technical programs focused on development of new flexible packaging products and/or technologies. In this role, you will lead all development and technical activities for assigned projects, delivering new packaging solutions to many of the world's most recognized brands. This position is located at our corporate headquarters in Hartsville, SC. This is a progression position and level will be based on candidate experience and business needs.

What you'll be doing:

Working closely with key stakeholders to understand technical targets for new product developments.
Leading technical activities to develop new flexible packaging structures, capabilities, or technology advancements.
Translating market requirements into Sonoco specifications and designing products that meet these requirements.
Developing and leading pilot, production, and filling/packaging trials.
Interacting with business leaders and customers to discuss development activities and needs.
Coordinating activities to accomplish tasks using available internal and external resources.
Maintaining knowledge of latest material and process developments that can be leveraged and shared within the business.
Building subject matter expertise for key focus areas and acting as a consultant within the business for these areas.
Preparing written and verbal presentations, project plans, updates, and reports for internal and external use.
Travel to suppliers, customers, conferences, and other innovation partners
Collaborate with marketing, supply management, engineering, sustainability, and other functions to identify needs and solutions

We'd love to hear from you if:

Education: Bachelor of Science, preferably in Engineering, Science, Packaging, or Plastics related field required
Experience: 5-10 years in a Product Development or Manufacturing role. Preferred manufacturing processes include blown film production, extrusion coating and laminating, printing (roto/flexo), pouching and form/fill/seal conversion.
Material science (OPP, PET, PE, Nylon, paper, and foil) knowledge
New product development, packaging applications,
Project management - Multitasking, prioritization, time and budget management, planning and executing
Technical writing & oral communication
Blown film production
Extrusion coating and extrusion lamination
Retail confection, bakery, snack, coffee, frozen food, beverage, thermally processed, or personal care markets would be a plus.