Sr. R&D Engineer – Thermoformed Packaging
📍 Location: Franklin Park, IL, USA (Onsite)
💼 Employment Type: Full-time
💰 Base Salary: $140,000 – $165,000
🎁 Signing Bonus: Negotiable
🚚 Relocation Package: Full
🌍 Travel: Up to 40% (mostly domestic)
🛑 Visa Sponsorship: Not available
About the Role
We are seeking a Senior R&D Engineer to join our Thermoformed Packaging division. Reporting to the R&D Director, you will play a key role in developing, designing, and qualifying new thermoplastic materials and processes for consumer-based packaging applications. This position requires deep expertise in plastics extrusion, thermoforming, and material processing to drive innovation, sustainability, and manufacturing efficiency.
Key Responsibilities
Serve as a subject matter expert in plastic materials processing for consumer packaging.
Lead R&D projects from concept to commercialization, with a focus on sustainable packaging solutions.
Provide recommendations on manufacturing equipment to support current and future business needs.
Collaborate with internal cross-functional teams, OEMs, and suppliers to solve complex technical challenges.
Drive growth initiatives by identifying new technologies and opportunities for improved productivity and capacity.
Originate and champion new ideas aligned with the company’s innovation and technology strategy.
Lead capital projects and technical integrations to enhance product performance.
Promote a positive, safe, and collaborative work environment.
Ensure compliance with safety policies and procedures.
Qualifications – Must Haves
B.S./M.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Plastics Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or Polymer Science.
7+ years of experience in plastics manufacturing and processing (extrusion, thermoforming, tooling).
Strong working knowledge of PET, PP, HIPS, and PE resins plus additives.
Experience in coatings and lamination on rigid sheet is a plus.
Proven results leading capital projects in a manufacturing environment.
Experience collaborating with OEMs and suppliers.
Strong problem-solving skills, technical expertise, and project leadership.
Preferred Traits:
Background in consumer-based food packaging.
Results-driven, self-starter with a positive attitude.
Strong organizational skills and ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment.
Effective written and verbal communicator.
Inquisitive and innovative, with a passion for new technologies.
Interview Process
30-min recruiter screen with Internal recruiter.
1-hour video interview with hiring manager.
1-hour panel interview with the team, potential onsite visit.
Company Culture & Perks
We design and manufacture sustainable packaging solutions that serve the food, retail, and medical sectors. From snacks and condiments to healthcare items and pet food, our packaging protects products while promoting a healthier planet.
Benefits include:
Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
Life Insurance
Retirement Plans
Paid Time Off
Equity Opportunities
Work From Home Flexibility
Additional Perks (e.g., relocation, growth opportunities)