Packaging & Product Development Manager, CPG

Key Responsibilities

Technical Packaging & Design

• Develop and maintain comprehensive technical specifications for primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging.
• Utilize CAD (SolidWorks, ArtiosCAD, or similar) for design reviews, tolerance management, and vendor collaboration.
• Lead validation and testing protocols (e.g., ISTA 3A/3B) to ensure product integrity 
• Serve as the technical owner for product formulations, maintaining documentation, version control, and key learnings.

Commercial Innovation & Scale

• Value Engineering: Identify and execute cost-savings initiatives (COGS) through material optimization and logistics efficiency.
• Manufacturing Integration: Lead "Line Trials" at co-packers and internal facilities to ensure designs are optimized for high-speed production.
• Retail Readiness: 
  • Design and validate retail-ready displays (PDQs, Sidekicks) tailored for Big Box retail requirements.
  • Build and manage relationships with key partners, including suppliers, co-manufacturers, and formulators, to strengthen the innovation pipeline.

Sustainable Material Science

• Source and qualify eco-friendly materials (PCR, bio-resins, compostables) that align with Murphy’s B Corp values without compromising formula stability or shelf-life.

Cross Functional Collaboration

• Sales: Translate retailer requirements into actionable designs on short timelines
• Ops: Evaluate operational feasibility early in development, including manufacturing, sourcing, packaging, and distribution.
• Marketing & Brand: Balancing brand aesthetics with structural integrity.
• Supply Chain & Finance: De-risking growth through vendor qualification and margin management.
• Co-Packers: Troubleshooting real-world production constraints.
• Regulatory: Collaborate with Quality, Regulatory, and Procurement teams to ensure compliance, safety, and supply chain readiness.

Education & Experience

• 4–7 years of experience in Packaging Engineering or Product Development (CPG preferred).
• B.S. in Packaging Science, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Demonstrated "Founder's Mindset"—the ability to pivot from tactical troubleshooting to long-term strategy.

Technical Skill Requirements

• Software
  • CAD Proficiency (SolidWorks/AutoCAD) for technical spec development.
• Testing
  • ISTA & ASTM Standards (specifically for parcel and LTL).
• Regulatory
  • Knowledge of CPG labeling compliance and font/placement rules.

• Software
  • Experience with ERP/BOM management tools (NetSuite/SAP).
• Testing
  • Hands-on lab experience with vibration and compression testing.
• Regulatory
  • EPA / FIFRA (25b) knowledge for pesticide packaging.

Benefits

• Health & Wellness
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Mental health support through EAP
• Financial Future
  • 401(k) retirement plan with 3% employer Safe Harbor contribution 
• Time to Recharge
  • 3 weeks (120 hours/15 days) PTO in 1st year of employment
  • Up to 12 weeks paid parental leave
• Community
  • Quarterly paid company-wide volunteer opportunities