What’s it all about then?

You’ll be your company’s expert when it comes to identifying and developing new packaging technologies and designs from first thoughts through to commercial roll-out.

You’ll use your knowledge of various packaging technologies to ensure that the packaging you develop meets rigorous standards.

What might I be doing?

You will spend your time designing package components and developing packaging systems for new and existing products.

This will entail drafting out project schedules, costing the packaging and ensuring that it is compatible with manufacturing processes. Collaborative action with departments such as marketing, technical and product development is vital in a role such as this.
You’ll also design and conduct effective testing of your work to ensure that requirements are met.

You’ll have responsibility for drawing up the technical and process specifications for your work that ensures final designs and operations work smoothly.

What will be expected of me?

You’ll probably need be educated to degree level for a job in packaging development - most likely in a science or food-related subject.

This is a busy and responsible role as you’ll probably be involved in a number of projects at any one time - particularly as the number of new products being developed in the food industry are many and varied.

Good verbal and written communication skills are important as you’ll be working as part of a team and you’ll have a lot of contact with materials suppliers as well.

You’ll be responsible for ensuring that packaging that you develop is functional, cost effective, and promotes your company and its products effectively.

What can I expect?

As a packaging developer, you will be the sort of person who enjoys creating things but you’ll also be technically minded and detail orientated.

You’ll also have to keep abreast of all new packaging technology and how it will affect your company’s products.

What about the pay?

This is a highly specialised role requiring high levels of expertise and your pay will reflect this.

You are likely to start on well over £20,000 and this will increase very quickly as you gain experience.

What qualifications do I need to get in?

As a start point, you should strongly consider degrees in Food Technology and Food Science and other related subjects, particularly those courses that offer modules in packaging related areas.

Anything else I might need to know?

Yes, this is an extremely varied role where one day might be spent at your desk working on specifications whilst the next might be testing either in the lab or factory environment - you certainly won’t get bored!