What exactly does it entail to be a packaging technologist? Common employers | Education and experience requirements | Essential skill sets
Packaging engineers develop ideas for the packaging of a wide variety of products, including food and drink, cosmetics, toiletries, and many other items.
The following are examples of some of the most common work responsibilities:
developing brand new packaging items in response to customer requests
verifying that the items being packaged fulfill the standards and specifications that have been established
generating samples in order to evaluate various types of materials and layouts
coordinating efforts with the sales, buying, and manufacturing departments
finding ways to save expenses while keeping up quality standards is the focus of this activity.
putting products through tests to see whether or not their packaging meets requirements and evaluating how well they function in a variety of environments
regulating production as well as quality requirements, including the reporting of packaging that does not match these criteria.
assessing, choosing, and engaging in negotiations with various providers
the process of locating and selecting items from several vendors
producing written reports
maintaining a state of current awareness about newly developed technologies.
There are prospects for promotion into senior technician or management roles, provided that personnel are able to change employers or move if required. These opportunities exist in the field of information technology (IT).
The typical types of companies that hire packaging technologists
manufacturing firms
pharmaceutical companies
retailers
manufacturers of packaging materials
converters of packaged goods
Opportunities are advertised by careers services and recruitment agencies, online as well as in a variety of publications such as New Scientist, Packaging News, Chemistry World, and Packaging Today – along with their online equivalents. These opportunities can also be found in a variety of publications. It is in your best interest to submit applications to bigger businesses as soon as possible. Applications based on speculation are also encouraged to be submitted.
Qualifications and experience are expected of applicants.
There are opportunities for those who have completed their education at a high school or university level to enter the field of packaging technology. Graduates will be required to possess a degree in an appropriate technical, scientific, or engineering subject, such as graphic design, biology, chemistry, biochemistry, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, production or manufacturing engineering, materials sciences, and life, medical, or physical sciences.
A postgraduate qualification in packaging technology might be advantageous, especially for individuals who do not already possess a first degree that is directly related to the field. The Packaging Society also provides the opportunity to get a diploma in packaging technology via remote learning and part-time study options. The first week of this event will be held virtually for everyone as a consequence of the epidemic. However, during the latter weeks, in April and May, there may be a return to the format that was signed up for. Read our article about postgraduate education in the sciences to learn about the many possibilities available to you.
Candidates that have previous experience in the appropriate field often have an edge. The knowledge and experience obtained via working as a technician or in the fields of product development, manufacturing, process control, or quality assurance may be quite beneficial.
Core competencies required of packaging technologists
great communication skills
design talents
problem-solving skills
excellent attention to detail
technical skills
innovation
skills that allow you to collaborate well with others.