R&D Packaging Specialist - Packaging / Food or Cosmetics

NEW VACANCY! (PK9406) R&D PACKAGING SPECIALIST - PACKAGING / FOOD OR COSMETICS EXPERIENCE NORTHMPTONSHIRE £EXPERIENCE DEPENDANT + PENSION Hours Options: Monday - Friday 8.30am - 5.00pm Monday - Friday 8.00am - 4.30pm Monday - Thursday 8.30am - 5.30pm, Friday finish at 3.00pm Monday - Thursday 8.00am - 5.00pm, Friday 8.30am - 3.00pm My client is a well-established manufacturer looking for a technically capable Packaging Development Specialist to join its product development team. This is an opportunity for someone with experience of packaging, materials, process development or technical manufacturing to support projects from early concept through to successful production launch. You will work across product improvement, packaging development, trials and process optimisation, collaborating closely with manufacturing, quality, engineering, procurement and external partners. Responsibilities: Develop and improve packaging formats, materials and manufacturing processes. Support the launch of new products and the improvement of established product lines. Plan and coordinate practical trials, testing and production-scale implementation. Work with suppliers to assess new materials, equipment and technical opportunities. Prepare clear specifications, reports and technical documentation. Ensure projects meet required quality, customer, safety and manufacturing standards. Help resolve technical and operational challenges using a practical, structured approach. Contribute to waste reduction, efficiency improvements and sustainability initiatives. Work collaboratively with colleagues across technical, operational and commercial functions.About You: You will have a relevant degree, technical qualification or equivalent experience within packaging, materials, polymers, engineering, food, pharmaceutical or another regulated manufacturing environment.Experience in one or more of the following would be valuable: Flexible packaging, film conversion, polymer materials or high-speed packing operations. Manufacturing trials, validation, scale-up or product introduction. Supplier engagement and technical project coordination. Quality-led or regulated production environments. Root-cause analysis and continuous improvement. You will be organised, curious and solutions-focused, with the confidence to manage several projects at once. Strong communication and documentation skills are essential, as is the ability to build effective working relationships across different teams.What's on offer: This is a varied and hands-on technical role within a progressive manufacturer. You will have the chance to influence new developments, improve existing products and build your skills through structured training and support. Work in a company with a family feel and a supportive team