Packaging Engineer

COMPANY DESCRIPTION

At AirLife, we are dedicated to improving the quality of every breath. Excellence with Every Breath is not just a tag line, but the way we work and take care of our customers. With a mindset to evolve, innovate, and grow, we are a premier manufacturer of the highest-quality and market-leading breathing consumables. This growth philosophy has positioned us to increase our global footprint and business reach, impacting even more people around the world. Our expanding family of the most trusted brands offers a product portfolio that spans the continuum of care from first responder to home care, with safety, patient comfort, and clinical performance in mind. Collective expertise allows us to provide quality products and experiences to our patients, customers, and our people. Our values of Customer first, Differentiate with our People, Bias for Action, Continuous Improvement and Accountability define who we are and how we work. Join us!

POSITION SUMMARY 

This position is to be the AirLife packaging expert leading packaging initiatives and creating strategies for all product categories within the AirLife portfolio.   Projects include overseeing cost savings activities, production and quality support, business growth and innovation for the materials and methods of packaging applications.

The packaging engineer will develop the packaging designs and material selections to ensure safe shipping, handling, and presentation of medical devices (sterile and non-sterile).  Must understand core packaging principles and technology where they create project plans, schedules, and budgets for implementation.  Works cross functionally and globally to support product offerings and customer requirements.

Develop and implement packaging cost savings initiates via supplier or material consolidations, transportation performance, and utilization of new technologies.

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS

The specific minimum competencies needed to perform the essential duties of the job include knowledge, skills, abilities, level of education, and experience necessary for successful performance.   These competencies are generally demonstrated through specific service, education, or training.

Knowledge: 

• Materials, manufacturing processes, and industry standards with sterile and non-sterile disposable medical devices

 Skills & Abilities:  

• Proven experience in packaging design and development
• Familiarity with relevant software tools for packaging design
• Strong analytical and problem solving skills
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills

Level of Experience: 

• 5+ years of experience

Level of Education:   

• Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field
• Professional certifications in packaging engineering

Travel:  Less than 15%, few days at a time tied to product trials, validations, or implementation

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The core tasks, duties, and responsibilities that must be performed on the job 

• Package Design:  Develop creative and functional packaging designs that meet the specific requirements of the product, considering factors such as product protection, transportation, and consumer appeal.
• Material Selection:  Choose appropriate packaging materials based on the nature of the product, cost considerations, and environmental impact.  Ensure that selected materials comply with relevant regulations.
• Testing and Quality Assurance:  Conduct tests and evaluations to ensure that packaging meets quality standards, durability requirements, and regulatory compliance.  Address any issues related to packaging performance.
• Cost Optimization:  Work to optimize packaging costs while maintaining quality standards.  Identify cost-effective materials and design solutions without compromising product integrity.
• Collaboration:  Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including product designers, production mangers, and marketing teams to align packaging design with overall product strategies and goals.
• Regulatory Compliance:  Stay informed about packaging regulations and standards.  Ensure that packaging designs adhere to local and international regulations, including safety and environmental requirements.
• Sustainability:  Explore and implement sustainable packaging solutions to minimize environmental impact.   Consider eco-friendly materials and design practices.
• Continuous Improvement:  Identify opportunities for process improvement in packaging design and production.   Stay updated on industry trends and advancements.

OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES

• Focus on achieving our Company mission.
• Demonstrate accuracy and thoroughness in daily work; look for ways to improve and promote quality & safety. 
• Inspire the trust of others; treat people with respect and dignity and embrace the value of diversity.
• Use time efficiently; perform job accurately, thoroughly, and conserve Company resources to improve profits.
• Contribute to building and maintaining a positive team environment.
• Assure all policies and guidelines are implemented and followed.

QUALITY POLICY

At AirLife, Quality is our promise.  It is our commitment to customer satisfaction and our dedication to product excellence in an evolving global healthcare market. This promise is kept through a continuously improving and effective Quality Management System and compliance to Regulatory Requirements.

DEIA STATEMENT

At AirLife, we are committed to building a diverse workforce and an inclusive workplace that reflects the communities and customers we serve. We believe our philosophy on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Advancement (DEIA) encourages excellence and equips us to serve an evolving global marketplace.