Sonoco · 3 days ago
Application Development Engineer - Thermoforming
United States
Full-time
Remote
Mid Level
3+ years expSonoco is a leader in the packaging industry, and they are seeking an Application Development Engineer to create innovative thermoformed packaging solutions. This role involves collaborating with cross-functional teams to translate customer needs into detailed designs while optimizing material usage and ensuring product performance.
ChemicalIndustrialManufacturingPackaging ServicesPlastics and Rubber ManufacturingRecycling
Responsibilities
Act as the technical liaison for assigned accounts for the development of new products and ensuring timely resolution of technical issues and fostering strong customer relationships
Manage end-to-end technical integration of commercial projects, including scope definition, pilot trials, and product performance validation
Develop and refine thermoformed packaging designs using 3D CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD)
Translate customer requirements to TOPPAN specifications
Maintain strong customer relations and support routine technical service activities
Coordinate activities with Sales and other internal & external resources
Be the subject matter expert on TOPPAN’s manufacturing assets, evaluate feasibility, select optimal asset utilization, and manage tooling development with external manufacturers to ensure cost and timeline adherence
Recommend material solutions based on the application requirements and communicate options effectively to customers and internal stakeholders
Coordinate with R&D engineers/scientists to identify material structures
Support product innovation initiatives aligned with Food Vertical strategy and contribute to portfolio reviews
Promote a collaborative, safe work environment to ensure compliance with company safety policies and procedures to protect all employees
Engage with others in the Technology organization to achieve target business results
Foster a positive, safe work environment through open communication and an atmosphere of teamwork
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, industrial design, or related field
Strong technical background in thermoplastics with 3-5 years of thermoforming packaging design or plastics engineering
Proficiency in CAD software and understanding of thermoforming processes
Strong problem-solving skills and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
Results driven; high levels of personal initiative, energy, and ownership for success
Inquisitive & innovative mindset; actively keeps abreast of new and developing technologies inside and outside of industry
Strong business acumen and experience in new product development disciplines
Ability to work well across teams and in a matrixed organization
Good interpersonal and communication skills; ability to work equally well with peers and those higher in the organization
Strong project management skills; well organized; able to manage multiple projects at a detailed level in various stages of progress
Good judgment and decision-making process
Preferred
Knowledge of food packaging regulations and sustainability practices preferred
Experience launching new packaging products with major CPG companies with experience trouble-shooting & resolution of customer issues
Company
Sonoco
Sonoco is a manufacturer of consumer, industrial, healthcare, and protective packaging.
10001+ employees
H1B Sponsorship
Sonoco has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not
guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your
reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)
Distribution of Different Job Fields Receiving Sponsorship
Represents job field similar to this job
Trends of Total Sponsorships
2025 (8)
2024 (5)
2023 (5)
2022 (7)
2021 (2)
Funding
Current Stage
Public CompanyTotal Funding
$1.83B2025-07-15Post Ipo Equity· $30M
2024-09-17Post Ipo Debt· $1.8B
2016-11-07Acquired
Leadership Team
Vicki Arthur
SVP/GM Plastics and Protective Solution businesses
John Pontrello
Vice President Operations, Consumer - North America
Recent News
Precedence Research
2025-11-25
Company data provided by crunchbase