Markdale, ON

Title: Packaging Development & Engineering Manager
Department: Strategic Planning
Reports To: Director, Strategic Planning and Implementation

Job Summary:

We are seeking an experienced and results-driven Packaging Development & Engineering Manager to lead technical development, commercialization, and continuous improvement of packaging solutions across our product portfolio.

This role is responsible for the engineering, performance, and implementation of packaging systems that support product quality, manufacturing efficiency, supply chain performance, sustainability objectives, and cost optimization. Working cross-functionally with Operations, Quality, Procurement, Sales, Marketing, and external suppliers, the successful candidate will lead packaging initiatives from concept through commercialization and production launch.

This is a highly technical role focused on packaging engineering, materials, manufacturing integration, validation, and continuous improvement. While supporting packaging artwork execution and changing management activities, the primary focus is the development and implementation of packaging solutions that perform reliably throughout manufacturing, distribution, retail, and consumer use.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the technical development, qualification, and commercialization of packaging solutions for new and existing products

Manage packaging projects from concept through manufacturing implementation, validation, and market launch

Develop packaging specifications, standards, testing protocols, and technical documentation

Evaluate packaging materials, structures, components, and technologies to meet performance, sustainability, regulatory, and cost objectives

Conduct packaging trials, line testing, validation studies, and scale-up activities in manufacturing environments

Collaborate with suppliers, converters, and packaging manufacturers to identify innovative solutions and support continuous improvement initiatives

Manufacturing & Operational Excellence

Analyze packaging performance and resolve issues impacting manufacturing efficiency, product protection, shelf life, transportation, and consumer experience

Support manufacturing operations through troubleshooting, root cause analysis, corrective actions, and process improvements

Ensure packaging designs are optimized for manufacturing equipment, operational efficiency, and supply chain requirements

Drive packaging standardization, material optimization, and cost reduction initiatives

Regulatory Compliance & Quality

Ensure compliance with applicable food packaging regulations, labeling requirements, environmental standards, customer specifications, and internal quality standards

Establish and maintain packaging validation programs and testing requirements





Support quality investigations and packaging-related corrective and preventive actions (CAPA)

Cross-Functional Leadership

Collaborate closely with Production, Engineering, Purchasing, Quality Assurance, Sales, Marketing, and external stakeholders throughout product development and commercialization activities

Support packaging artwork implementation, specification approvals, and change management processes

Provide technical expertise and recommendations regarding packaging technologies, materials, sustainability initiatives, and emerging industry trends

Leadership & Resource Management

Manage departmental priorities, project portfolios, budgets, KPIs, reporting, and resource allocation

Lead and develop team members while fostering a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement

Establish project timelines and ensure successful execution of packaging initiatives across the organization

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Packaging Technology, or a related technical discipline

5+ years of experience in packaging development, packaging engineering, product commercialization, or manufacturing environments, preferably within food, consumer packaged goods (CPG), or consumer products industries

Demonstrated experience leading packaging projects from concept through commercialization and production launch

Strong understanding of packaging materials, including flexible films, paperboard, corrugated packaging, plastics, labels, and sustainable packaging solutions

Experience conducting packaging trials, validation testing, manufacturing implementation, and root cause investigations

Knowledge of packaging machinery, manufacturing processes, and line performance considerations

Familiarity with transportation testing, shelf-life evaluation, product protection requirements, and packaging performance standards

Experience working directly with packaging suppliers, converters, printers, and contract manufacturers

Strong knowledge of packaging regulations, labeling requirements, and industry standards

Proven project management, problem-solving, communication, and cross-functional leadership skills

Experience managing teams, budgets, project portfolios, and performance metrics

Skillful use of graphic design software, including Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, etc)

Preferred Qualifications

Experience within food manufacturing or consumer packaged goods environments





Familiarity with packaging artwork workflows, die lines, print production, and specification management systems

Knowledge of sustainability programs, packaging optimization initiatives, and environmental compliance requirements

Experience with packaging development software, Epson Sure Color SC-P9570SE 12 color printer, specification systems, or project management platforms

Core Competencies

Technical expertise in packaging engineering and materials science

Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities

Project management and organizational leadership

Manufacturing and commercialization experience

Supplier relationship management and collaboration

Effective communication and stakeholder management

Strategic thinking with strong execution skills

Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced setting

Working Conditions

Average work week of 44+ hours, with flexibility required during product launches, manufacturing trials, and key project milestones

Combination of office, manufacturing, and supplier environments

Regular involvement in plant trials, packaging evaluations, validation activities, and supplier visits

Occasional travel may be required to manufacturing facilities, suppliers, customers, or industry events

What We Offer

Opportunities for professional growth and development

Permanent, year-round positions

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Group home and auto insurance

Subsidized lunches at our on-site cafeteria

Work at a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Markdale, Ontario

The chance to join an international, award-winning business – the largest ice cream manufacturer in Canada

A positive workplace culture where we take pride in what we do and strive for excellence

Free ice cream!

Compensation
At Chapman’s, compensation is guided by a pay-for-performance philosophy that recognizes and rewards individual contributions.

Salary Range: $80,000 to $120,000 annually

In addition to wages, employees will be eligible for:

Regular wage reviews as part of a comprehensive total rewards package

Retirement savings program, including a company-matching pension plan to support long-term financial planning

Comprehensive extended health, dental, life, and disability benefits

Mental health support as part of the benefits program

Disclaimer
These statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work to be performed. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time and as needed.

We thank all those that apply in advance for your application, however only those selected will be contacted, no phone inquiries please.

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📌 Packaging Development & Engineering Manager (Ontario)
🏢 CHAPMAN'S ICE CREAM
📍 Ontario