Packaging Engineer

When it comes to being wild, we know a thing or two. We’re not afraid of trying something new or the hard work it takes to make it happen. It’s in our DNA. We’ve turned a family recipe into a new snacking category. And the wilderness into the world’s largest meat snack business, that’s still proudly family owned and operated.

We’re a company built by innovators, and are driven to not only satisfy your hunger, but to also feed your journey – whether that journey is on the road, on the run, at the campground, at the playground, in the office or in the moment. It’s a journey we share with you. It’s the journey forward of our people, of our communities, of our category…with a reverence for quality and an irreverence for the status quo.

At Jack Link’s Protein Snacks, we see every moment of every day as an opportunity to move forward, to forge new ground. To realize our vision of becoming the World’s #1 Protein Snack Company. We never give up. You never give up. Together, we keep going. Are you wild enough to join us?

Jack Link’s Protein Snacks is a global leader in snacking and the No. 1 meat snack manufacturer worldwide. Family-owned and operated with headquarters in Minong, Wisconsin, Jack Link’s Protein Snacks also has a large corporate hub in Downtown Minneapolis, Minnesota. The company is made up of over 4,000 passionate team members, across 11 countries, who share an uncompromising commitment to delivering awesome products and feeding the journey of those who move things forward. The Jack Link’s Protein Snacks portfolio of brands includes, Jack Link’s, Lorissa’s Kitchen, MATADOR Jerky, BiFi and Peperami.

Position Summary

We are seeking a Packaging Engineer with a strong technical foundation and a collaborative mindset to support both primary and secondary packaging initiatives. This role will work cross-functionally with Marketing, Operations, and R&D to drive packaging innovation, support growth initiatives, and improve operational efficiency.

 

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and support packaging development projects little guidance from manager.
• Contribute to base business and high-complexity projects, ensuring technical excellence and timely delivery.
• Develop and maintain technical specifications, packaging documentation, and startup protocols.
• Complete BOM and spec builds in PLM system and review/approve graphics through online proofing.
• Write and execute plant trial experiments, analyze results, and present findings in both written and oral formats.
• Create project one-pagers, participate in plant debriefs, and follow R&D ways of working.
• Manage smaller projects independently, with accountability for timelines and deliverables.
• Build and maintain relationships with packaging suppliers to stay informed of industry trends and innovations.
• Interpret packaging principles and operating systems for assigned platforms.
• Maintain awareness of budget implications and contribute to strategic and fiscal planning.
• Actively participate in cross-functional teams, bringing packaging expertise to collaborative efforts.

Support Innovation Center work on packaging machines: Multivac, Band Sealer, Scale Filler etc.

 

Required Specific Knowledge and Skills

• Ability to understand CAD drawings of packaging materials and machine tooling.
• Strong collaboration skills to work with cross-functional teams for package development and implementation.
• Effective communicator of ideas and concepts to suppliers and internal stakeholders.
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds and work in various environments including manufacturing facilities.
• Base working knowledge of resin and fiber-based materials and packaging formats.
• Pulse on industry trends in sustainability and EPR regulations.

Preferred Specific Knowledge and Skills

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and Cape/TOPS pallet pattern software.
• Understanding of packaging’s role in the supply chain and environmental optimization initiatives.
• Basic knowledge of display designs, supplier manufacturing capabilities, assembly/fulfillment processes, and graphic styles.
• Demonstrated leadership and initiative in packaging development projects and prior work experience.
• General understanding of packaging tests, manufacturing processes, and distribution systems.

Required Education

• Bachelor’s or Master's degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.

Required Experience

• Minimum of 3 years of relevant professional experience in packaging development
• Strong understanding of packaging materials, machinery, and manufacturing processes.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and work effectively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
• Familiarity with packaging testing methods and regulatory requirements is a plus.

Preferred Experience

• Minimum of 3 years of relevant professional experience in packaging development within Food or CPG space

The salary range for this role is $80,000 – $90,000(Annually).  Actual salaries will vary based on several factors, including but not limited to external market data, internal equity, location, and candidate skill set and experience. Base pay is just one component of Jack Link’s Total Rewards package for Team Members. Other rewards may include annual incentive and program-specific awards. Jack Link’s provides a variety of benefits to eligible Team Members, including medical, dental and vision benefits, life and disability insurance, 401k participation, paid holidays, and paid time off.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER:

Jack Link’s provides equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic that is protected by federal, state or local law.

E-VERIFY:

Jack Link’s is participant in the federal E-Verify program to confirm the identity and employment authorization of all newly hired employees.  For information about the E-Verify program, please visit:  http://www.uscis.gov/e-verify/employees

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.