Huhtamaki · 20 hours ago
Project Engineer
De Soto, KS, USA
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level
5+ years expHuhtamaki is a key global provider of sustainable packaging solutions, dedicated to making all packaging recyclable, reusable, or compostable. The Project Engineer will support the company’s strategic commercial growth by managing Technology & Development projects, implementing new packaging structures, and leading material development initiatives.
Consumer GoodsManufacturingPackaging Services
Responsibilities
Lead the development and commercialization of innovative and sustainable packaging solutions—taking concepts from ideation to launch—while exceeding customer expectations, meeting cost targets, and supporting efficient manufacturing
Utilize strong project management and interpersonal skills to coordinate with suppliers, customers, and internal stakeholders, ensuring alignment and timely execution of packaging projects
Report project progress to key stakeholders, ensuring timely completion within budget and against set deadlines
Manage material qualification and new product development projects to completion by coordinating activities between T&D and cross-functional teams, including Operations, Sales, and Procurement
Effectively communicate and present technical project updates, test results, conclusions, and recommendations
Apply mechanical aptitude and proficiency in Artios CAD, Pro E, AutoCAD, and other design tools to engineer packaging and develop or refine machine tooling, increasing efficiency and reducing waste
Support paperboard product development, machine design, and process improvement projects; assist with prototyping and sample creation as needed
Operate and troubleshoot T&D converting equipment; optimize manufacturing processes for printing, slitting, sheeting, die cutting, and forming
Collaborate with customers and suppliers on material qualifications and new product development
Foster innovation through creative design; develop patentable ideas and partner with the IP Manager to safeguard intellectual property
Collaborate globally to share knowledge in material science and pursue advancements within T&D
Provide technical support in a broad scope of material science areas, including paperboard, barrier technologies, adhesives, coatings, inks, waxes, and polymer resins
Support the qualification of new materials for product improvement, cost reduction, supply chain diversification, and sustainability initiatives
Demonstrate fundamental expertise in sustainability, such as knowledge of sustainable materials, industry challenges, recyclability and compostability standards, and end-of-life considerations
Apply analytical skills and problem-solving abilities to design testing protocols, qualify new materials, and troubleshoot technical issues
Assist with functionality, performance testing of packaging, and development of new testing protocols or procedures
Support on-site product development trials; act as the technical expert during internal/external converting and customer trials
Collaborate with Sales, Technical Service, Quality, and Operations teams to resolve customer complaints and product issues using root cause analysis
Author and maintain customer specifications, drawings, and manage T&D databases while protecting intellectual property
Write and update standard operating procedures, QC protocols, and specification documents
Ensure compliance with FDA and other applicable food contact packaging regulations
Qualification
Required
Demonstrated project management abilities; capable of managing multiple projects and prioritizing tasks
Effective independent worker and team collaborator; able to engage with cross-functional groups
Strong presentation, communication, and conflict resolution skills; highly organized with strong follow-up
Solid understanding of manufacturing processes, R&D tools, and root cause analysis methodologies
Fundamental knowledge of physics, chemistry, mathematics, heat transfer, and their application to material science in packaging
Excellent mechanical aptitude, creative design, critical thinking, and analytical approach to problem solving
Proficient in 2D/3D CAD software and Microsoft Office Suite
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Paper, Packaging, Chemical, or Industrial Engineering (or related field)
Minimum 5 years of project work experience in R&D and New Product Development, with preference for candidates from the packaging industry
Willingness to travel up to 35% as required to support job responsibilities
Company
Huhtamaki
Huhtamäki is a global manufacturer of consumer and specialty packaging. Head office in Espoo, Finland
10001+ employees
H1B Sponsorship
Huhtamaki 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
2021 (1)
2020 (1)
Funding
Current Stage
Public CompanyTotal Funding
$3.78BKey Investors
OP Corporate Bank
2025-09-04Post Ipo Debt· $349.7M
2025-08-22Post Ipo Debt· $2.32B
2025-06-18Post Ipo Debt· $172.62M
Leadership Team
Johan Rabe
Executive Vice President, Digital and Process Performance
Sami Pauni
EVP, Sustainability, Corporate Affairs and Legal, and Member of the Global Executive Team
Recent News
2026-01-07
GlobeNewswire
2025-12-29
2025-12-05
Company data provided by crunchbase