R&D Associate Packaging Scientist- Austin, MN

Hormel Foods Family of Companies • Austin, MN

11h • Onsite

About The Position

This packaging role organizes, plans, directs and conducts research in the area of packaging technologies that will lead to improved and new innovative and creative packaging applications in support of company goals and objectives. It provides technical advice and assistance to professional and non-professional personnel.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Engineering or related field
• Project management skills with the ability to lead and run projects smoothly.
• Demonstrated self-motivation, initiative, and creativity
• Ability to work both independently and in a team setting.
• An understanding of basic scientific principles.
• Strong analytical, time management, and record keeping skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills including good team building skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communications skills with ability to effectively present technical concepts to a nontechnical audience
• Applicants must not now, or at any time in the future, require employer sponsorship for a work visa
• Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States for any employer
• Must be 18 years of age or older (all plant positions including R&D)

Nice To Haves

• Packaging Equipment and/or Processing experience
• Knowledge in the area of Package Sustainability including Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR).

Responsibilities

• Identifies, facilitates, devises and conducts research in the area of packaging which leads to the development and implementation of new packaging systems for the company. This involves maintaining competency in cutting edge packaging technology and broad packaging theory, and researching the feasibility of using this technology in conjunction with our products.
• Investigates, recommends and implements packaging cost saving programs by evaluating new enhancements made to packaging materials and/or new design considerations with the planned goal of minimizing the costs associated with our products.
• Fulfills the role as a technical service/troubleshooter when more broadly defined packaging problems at our facilities are beyond the scope of the plant/corporate personnel. May serve as a resource and advisor to other Packaging Scientists and personnel within the company.
• Develops and plans systems for improving packaging efficiencies within the corporation. This includes the entering and managing of all packaging specifications for our company’s products and may also include development of software and catalogue systems for collecting critical data regarding packaging materials and package attributes.
• Facilitates practical applications of packaging technology requiring direct interaction with other areas of the company such as Engineering, Operations, Marketing and Purchasing etc. Oversees the development and integration of packaging technologies with the many vendors and suppliers who work with the company.
• Coordinates and plans specific projects effectively, on a daily basis, with the group’s Research Technicians.

Benefits

• Compensation package includes comprehensive medical, dental and vision coverage, discretionary annual merit increases and bonuses, 401(k) with employer match, stock purchase plan, relocation assistance, paid time off, FREE two-year community/technical college tuition for children of employees, and more.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level