Principal Packaging Engineer

The Spartanburg operation is a state‑of‑the‑art coffee roasting, pod packaging, and beverage distribution facility, and is the largest KDRP coffee manufacturing and distribution site. The facility operates using the principles of Total Productive Maintenance (TPM), Lean Manufacturing, and High‑Performance Teams. All associates are expected to demonstrate ownership and accountability for both site operations and their functional responsibilities. The site utilizes advanced enterprise IT systems, manufacturing execution systems (MES), highly automated processing and packaging technologies, and standardized lean processes.

The Principal Packaging Engineer is responsible for developing, implementing, and sustaining technical solutions, standards, and continuous improvement initiatives related to packaging operations. This role ensures effective application of TPM methodologies, supports system reliability, and collaborates with cross‑functional teams including Engineering, R&D, Commercialization, IT, Quality, Production, and Maintenance. The Packaging Engineer drives improvements that support safety, quality, productivity, financial performance, and capacity growth.

Technical Leadership & System Performance

• Develop, implement, and sustain improvements to packaging systems, including mechanical, electrical, process, IT, and OT components.
• Establish and maintain tools and systems for measuring equipment and packaging performance.
• Conduct periodic audits to verify compliance with established packaging standards and system functionality.
• Ensure packaging systems meet safety, quality, and regulatory requirements.

Continuous Improvement

• Lead and facilitate Kaizen events and continuous improvement projects using Lean and TPM methodologies (A3, RCA, SMED, DMAIC, etc.).
• Identify and execute improvement initiatives to enhance equipment reliability, reduce waste, and increase operational efficiency.
• Evaluate CI project outcomes and ensure sustainability of implemented solutions.

Cross‑Functional Collaboration

• Partner with OEMs to maintain up‑to‑date systems, documentation, training, and maintenance practices aligned with production needs.
• Participate in multifunctional project teams involving Production, Maintenance, Distribution, Quality Assurance, and administrative functions.
• Share best practices with other KDP manufacturing sites and incorporate learnings into Spartanburg operations.

Training & Capability Building

• Collaborate with Quality Assurance to develop training materials and deliver technical training related to filling and packaging technologies.
• Provide coaching and technical support to High‑Performance Teams to strengthen equipment ownership and operational capability.

Compliance & Governance

• Report food safety, quality, and regulatory concerns to appropriate personnel with authority to initiate corrective action.
• Ensure adherence to KDP policies, safety standards, ergonomic guidelines, and operational procedures.
• Support alignment with corporate continuous improvement standards and methodologies.

• Salary range: $96,800 - $133,000
• Actual placement within the compensation range may vary depending on experience, skills, and other factors
• Benefits, subject to election and eligibility: Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, Paid Time Off (including paid parental leave, vacation, and sick time), 401k with company match, Tuition Reimbursement, and Mileage Reimbursement
• Annual bonus based on performance and eligibility
• Benefits eligible Day 1!

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required (Engineering or Manufacturing discipline preferred).
• 5-7 years of experience in a packaging‑based manufacturing environment.
• TPM and/or Lean Manufacturing training preferred.

Competencies

• Strong knowledge of packaging system design, optimization, troubleshooting, and project management.
• Advanced proficiency with computer applications and analytical tools.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills with strong attention to detail.
• Effective communication skills across multiple departments and organizational levels.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and perform in a fast‑paced environment.
• Strong teamwork, influencing skills, and disciplined execution.
• Comfortable developing and delivering group presentations.
• Ability to travel occasionally and work a flexible schedule as needed.
• Demonstrated professionalism, punctuality, and adherence to company policies.

Other Responsibilities

• Follow all KDP safety, ergonomic, and operational policies.
• Support corporate continuous improvement initiatives to ensure process consistency.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by leadership.

Physical Requirements / Working Conditions

• Approximately 75% of time spent on the production floor (standing, walking) and 25% in office/computer work.
• Occasional travel required.

Keurig Dr Pepper (NASDAQ: KDP) is a leading beverage company in North America, with a portfolio of more than 125 owned, licensed and partner brands and powerful distribution capabilities to provide a beverage for every need, anytime, anywhere. We operate with a differentiated business model and world-class brand portfolio, powered by a talented and engaged team that is anchored in our values. We work with big, exciting beverage brands and the #1 single-serve coffee brewing system in North America at KDP, and we have fun doing it!

Together, we have built a leading beverage company in North America offering hot and cold beverages together at scale. Whatever your area of expertise, at KDP you can be a part of a team that’s proud of its brands, partnerships, innovation, and growth. Will you join us?

We strive to be an employer of choice, providing a culture and opportunities that empower our team of ~29,000 employees to grow and develop. We offer robust benefits to support your health and wellness as well as your personal and financial well-being. We also provide employee programs designed to enhance your professional growth and development, while ensuring you feel valued, inspired and appreciated at work.

Keurig Dr Pepper is an equal opportunity employer and recruits qualified applicants and advances in employment its employees without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability or association with a person with a disability, medical condition, genetic information, ethnic or national origin, marital status, veteran status, or any other status protected by law.

A.I. Disclosure: 
KDP uses artificial intelligence to assist with initial resume screening and candidate matching. This technology helps us efficiently identify candidates whose qualifications align with our open roles. If you prefer not to have your application processed using artificial intelligence, you may opt out by emailing your resume and qualifications directly to kdpjobs@kdrp.com in lieu of clicking Apply. Please include the job title and location or Job ID # in the email subject line.