Packaging Engineer & Sustainability Lead

About You

The Technical Packaging Engineer will spearhead packaging innovation and sustainability efforts for supplements, hair care as well as the direct to consumer packaging experience, kits and brand merchandise. This pivotal role will lead the development of cutting-edge, eco-friendly packaging solutions that align with our mission to create high-performance, luxury products that are sustainable and health conscious in design. The successful candidate will combine technical expertise in packaging design and materials science with leadership skills to influence cross-functional teams and reach our brand goals.  

This role reports directly to the VP of Product Development and will work closely with Product Development, Supply Chain, Procurement, RA/QA, Marketing, Creative, Customer Experience and will be the key contact for packaging sustainability goal setting with our parent company, Unilever.  

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive sustainability strategy and roadmap for packaging with key stakeholders that aligns with the brands overall mission and goals for a superior consumer experience meeting regulatory and quality compliance.

• Partner with the leadership team to set ambitious targets for a sustainable, comprehensive end-to-end packaging lifecycle for the brand with clear goals and timelines (e.g., material reduction, recyclability rates, carbon footprint).

• Assess packaging performance through analysis and quality testing to ensure it meets safety, durability, functionality and environmental impact standards. Supports selection of packaging to ensure product stability and compatibility. 

• Ensure packaging meets sustainability regulations, such as Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), owning documentation collection and acting as the key lead and contact for Nutrafol within Unilever.

• Identify packaging opportunities for continuous improvement by staying ahead of industry trends, emerging technologies, and regulatory changes.

• Collaborate with Product Development, Marketing, Supply Chain, and Operations teams to align packaging designs with overall product and business objectives - working closely with Procurement to identify and develop strategic partnerships with material suppliers and manufacturers.  

• Along with the Customer Experience team, identify, plan and execute a full welcome unboxing experience for direct to consumer customers that is functional, informative and meets sustainability goals within the broader packaging strategy.  

• Partner with Product Development and Creative Teams to design new product development packaging, kits and brand merchandise.

• Work with Brand Marketing and Comms teams to communicate sustainability efforts and benefits of the brand.  

• Own the technical packaging specifications and documentation across all manufacturers to ensure packaging quality. 

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Engineering, Materials Science, Material Engineering or related field; advanced degree preferred

• 8+ years of experience of packaging engineering in the beauty/wellness industry; startup experience is a plus

• Strong understanding of sustainable packaging materials, technologies, and industry trends

• Experience with LCA methodologies and analysis

• Proficiency in packaging design software (CAD) and data analysis tools

• Knowledge of relevant EPR regulations, certifications and standards related to packaging sustainability

• Excellent communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with cross-functional teams

• Must be a team player; possessing the ability to build and nurture strong relationships and gain the respect of members of internal and cross-functional teams

• Must possess excellent oral and written communication, analytical, and creative skills

• Must be flexible and determined, possessing the ability to handle a multitude of projects and the willingness to put in the time necessary for success

• Fosters an encouraging, respectful, and team-oriented organization