
Quality Engineer, Food Packaging
- Richmond, VA
- Permanent
- Full-time
The Opportunity ...Packaging Testing, Trials, and Documentation
- Conduct and document packaging trials and basic product testing
- Use Scientific Mindset to collect data and analyze results of trials
- Provide trial results and reports to customers, suppliers, and internal teams
- Issue monthly reports and status updates on trials and packaging trends
- Support the sales team by conducting new product trials for customers or material suppliers
- Learn proper operation of tray sealing equipment and understand theory of operation
- Gain knowledge of various packaging materials and advise on best practices
- Maintain and build relationships with packaging material suppliers and other resources such as universities and technical colleges
- The PQE will also be expected to further progress and implement additional testing standards matching industry standards such as drop tests, altitude testing, etc.
- Track and manage materials (trays and films) entering and exiting the business
- Work with engineering to ensure solutions perform correctly with given materials
- Manage trial product both for customer trials and internal testing including perishables
- Maintain stock levels of trays and film for trial purposes
- Test performance of packaging produced by company equipment during final testing
- Ensure all materials are available for the requested testing date
- Provide support on material compatibility during Factory Acceptance Testing
- Four-year undergraduate degree in field(s) pertaining to position such as Packaging Science or Food Science
- Minimum of two-year focused work experience is required and may be substituted for educational experience
- Experience in a manufacturing environment is preferred
- Position requires exceptional technical, time management, and communication skills to assist in the development and progression of understanding of packaging materials within the business
- The position requires an understanding of technical packaging principles involving various packaging materials including APET, RPET, CPET, PP, PS, PE, HDPE, Molded Fiber and how they interact with heat seal principles
- The position requires the use of company tray sealing equipment along with technical testing equipment such as high-pressure gas systems (such as Nitrogen and Oxygen), gas mixers, gas analyzers, leak detectors, and peel-strength testing machines
- The PQE must be able to work efficiently and with great attention to detail to promptly process packaging testing through the business for both internal and external use
- Knowledge and understanding of packaging design validation standards (ISO, ASTM, etc.), drafting and specification standards is preferred
- Demonstrable proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and CAD software like SolidWorks is needed
- Problem solving and decision-making skills are necessary
- Must be able to work independently and as part of a team
- Must have strong communication skills, orally and in writing
- Understanding process improvement, quality improvement concepts is needed. Must be able to demonstrate project management skills
- Pass background check requirements
- Pass drug screening requirements
- Valid, unrestricted driver’s license required to drive company insured vehicles and or rental vehicles
- Able to function equally well in an office environment and a manufacturing/assembly floor
- Adherence to all safety requirements and use of personal protective equipment within the plant is mandatory
- Work in a climate-controlled factory
- Stand continuously for long periods of time
- Wearing of safety clothing and equipment is required
- Able to kneel, bend, crouch and climb ladders to access various parts of a machine
- Able to lift and carry 50 lbs
- Some travel will be required to attend trade shows, accompany salesperson on customer visits, and to make visits to suppliers
- May be required to continue education by attending training within the United States or abroad to Manchester UK
- Tuition reimburstment program
- Job training is provided
- Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage
- Life Insurance
- Discount benefits program
- Short Term/ Long Term Disability
- 401(k) plan with company match
- Paid Time Off
- Company Paid Holidays
- Floating Holidays