At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative packaging solutions for our exciting beverage range in a fast-paced environment.
- Company: Join a dynamic SME drinks manufacturer focused on sustainability and quality.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, growth opportunities, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with a focus on continuous improvement and environmental responsibility.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of packaging innovation and sustainability in the beverage industry.
- Qualifications: Degree in Packaging Technology or related field; 3-5 years in packaging development.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
We are seeking a proactive and technically skilled Packaging Technologist to lead the development, specification, and continuous improvement of packaging solutions across our beverage portfolio. Operating within a fast-paced SME drinks manufacturing environment, this role combines packaging innovation with operational efficiency, commercial awareness, quality compliance, and sustainability focus. The successful candidate will play a key role in delivering fit-for-purpose, cost-effective, and compliant packaging solutions that support manufacturing performance, product integrity, and brand excellence.
MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES
- Packaging Development
- Develop and maintain specifications for primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging including glass bottles, cans, closures, labels, cartons, and shrink wrap.
- Lead packaging activities for new product launches and customer-led projects.
- Evaluate and introduce new packaging materials, formats, and technologies.
- Plan and execute packaging trials and validation activities on production lines.
- Review and approve packaging artwork from a technical and compliance perspective.
- Factory Trials & Line Compatibility
- Coordinate and support packaging trials across bottling and canning operations.
- Ensure packaging compatibility with filling, labelling, packing, and palletising equipment.
- Investigate and resolve packaging-related production issues such as label application defects, closure torque variation, bottle/can damages, cuffing, and pallet instability.
- Collaborate closely with Engineering and Production teams to improve line performance and operational efficiency.
- Supplier & Stakeholder Management
- Work closely with packaging suppliers to obtain technical data, specifications, and samples.
- Support supplier approval and onboarding processes.
- Monitor supplier quality and performance standards.
- Provide technical expertise to Procurement during supplier negotiations and sourcing activities.
- Cost Optimisation & Commercial Support
- Maintain accurate packaging specifications and cost information.
- Identify and implement cost-saving and value-engineering opportunities without compromising product quality or performance.
- Contribute to margin improvement initiatives through packaging optimisation.
- Quality, Compliance & Food Safety
- Ensure all packaging complies with food safety, legal, and regulatory requirements.
- Maintain packaging technical documentation and specification databases.
- Support HACCP and wider food safety systems relating to packaging materials and processes.
- Ensure compliance with labelling legislation and relevant industry standards.
- Assist with sustainability reporting and environmental compliance requirements.
- Sustainability & Continuous Improvement
- Drive initiatives to reduce packaging waste and material usage.
- Lead projects focused on recyclability, lightweighting, and alternative sustainable materials.
- Monitor packaging performance and identify continuous improvement opportunities.
- Stay informed on emerging packaging technologies, sustainability trends, and regulatory developments.
Knowledge, experience, and skills required:
- Degree or diploma in Packaging Technology, Food Science, Engineering, or a related discipline.
- 3–5 years’ experience within packaging development in food or beverage manufacturing.
- Strong technical understanding of packaging materials including glass, aluminium, and flexible films.
- Experience supporting factory trials and manufacturing operations.
- Knowledge of food safety, packaging compliance, and labelling regulations.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving capability.
- Excellent attention to detail and project management skills.
- Commercial awareness with the ability to balance quality, performance, and cost.
- Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
Desirable
- Experience within bottling and/or canning operations.
- Knowledge of sustainability initiatives and recyclable packaging solutions.
- Experience working within an SME manufacturing environment.
Please note that we are not able to offer sponsorship for this role.
Packaging Technologist in Middlesbrough employer: ICB Drinks
Join a dynamic SME drinks manufacturing company that prioritises innovation, sustainability, and employee development. As a Packaging Technologist, you will thrive in a collaborative work culture that encourages creativity and continuous improvement, while benefiting from opportunities for professional growth and a commitment to quality and compliance. Located in a fast-paced environment, you'll play a crucial role in shaping packaging solutions that enhance product integrity and brand excellence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Packaging Technologist in Middlesbrough
✨Join Food Science Communities
Get involved in food science forums and communities, both online and offline. Platforms like LinkedIn Groups or Reddit can be goldmines for job leads and valuable insights. Plus, you’ll connect with other food enthusiasts who might even point you towards openings at companies like ICB Drinks.
✨Attend Industry Conferences and Workshops
Check out exhibitions and workshops in the food science sector. Events like the International Congress on Food Technology are not just knowledge hubs, but also great networking opportunities. You never know who you might bump into – perhaps a hiring manager from ICB Drinks!
✨Show Off Your Passion for Food Tech
Start a blog or social media channel showcasing innovative food science projects or trends. This not only showcases your expertise but also raises your visibility in the field. When you apply for a role at companies like ICB Drinks, they’ll see you’re proactive and truly passionate about food technology.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you're fresh out of uni, make use of your career services! They often have exclusive job boards and connections with companies looking for graduates. Don't forget to mention your interest in roles like those at ICB Drinks, and they might have insider tips or referrals just for you!
We think you need these skills to ace Packaging Technologist in Middlesbrough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Projects:When applying for a role in food science and technology at ICB Drinks, make sure to highlight any relevant projects or research you've worked on. Whether it’s a dissertation, a lab experiment, or a product development idea, detail these experiences to demonstrate your hands-on skills in the field—employers love to see practical applications of your knowledge!
Highlight Technical Skills:In the food science and technology industry, technical skills are key. Be sure to list any specific skills you have related to food safety, quality control, or food processing technologies on your CV. Also, mention any software or analytical tools you’re proficient in, as this shows you're ready to hit the ground running at ICB Drinks.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:As this is a full-time position, your cover letter should convey not just why you want the job, but also how you fit into the company's vision. Talk about your passion for food science and how your background uniquely positions you to contribute to ICB Drinks. Make it personal and compelling!
Include Certifications:If you have any certifications related to food science, safety, or technology, be sure to mention them. These can really set you apart from other candidates! List them prominently on your CV and discuss how they relate to the role at ICB Drinks. It shows you're committed to your professional development.
How to prepare for a job interview at ICB Drinks
✨Know Your Lab Tech!
Given that you’re diving into food science and technology, brush up on the specific technologies and lab equipment mentioned in the job description. Familiarising yourself with tools like gas chromatography or texture analyzers will show that you’re serious about the technical side of things.
✨Show Off Your Project Experience
Prepare to discuss any relevant projects or research you've undertaken in food science. Whether it’s developing a new recipe, conducting taste tests, or analysing nutritional content, having tangible examples can really show off your expertise and passion for the field.
✨Emphasise Your Soft Skills
Don't underestimate the importance of teamwork and communication in food science roles. Be ready to highlight instances where you’ve effectively collaborated with others or communicated complex scientific ideas clearly. This can make a huge difference in landing that full-time gig!
✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
Make sure you’re clued up about the latest trends in food science and technology — think sustainability, food safety, and innovative processing techniques. Discussing these topics during your interview can demonstrate your enthusiasm for the field and how you can contribute to ICB Drinks’s mission.
