Packaging Engineering Manager

We are seeking an experienced Manager – Packaging Engineering to lead packaging development within our US Beverage Refreshments Packaging R&D team, with a specialized focus on injection molded bottle and closure technologies. This role drives innovation, qualification, and commercialization of rigid packaging solutions, with a strong emphasis on molding technologies, material selection and system performance.

The ideal candidate brings deep, hands-on expertise in injection molding, tooling, resin selection, and commercialization of rigid packaging formats. The individual will lead the development of sustainable, high-performance packaging solutions that align with company objectives and enhance the overall consumer experience.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead end-to-end development of rigid packaging systems, including bottles and closures, from concept through commercialization
• Apply deep expertise in injection molding, blow molding, tooling design, and resin selection to deliver robust, scalable solutions
• Apply expertise across a range of resin systems, including rPET and other recycled materials, as well as barrier technologies, to support performance, sustainability, and regulatory requirements
• Manage and develop one Associate Packaging Engineer, providing technical guidance, prioritization, and career development
• Drive innovation in packaging formats, materials, and manufacturing processes to improve performance, cost, and sustainability
• Collaborate cross-functionally with R&D, Procurement, Supply Chain, and Operations to align on technical strategy and execution
• Elevate and implement new packaging capabilities, technologies, and processes
• Lead lab testing, plant trials, and qualification protocols to ensure packaging performance and manufacturability
• Ensure packaging solutions meet key requirements, including shelf life, carbonation retention, durability, and consumer experience
• Identify and mitigate technical risks related to packaging performance, material behavior, and manufacturing variability
• Maintain strong relationships with internal stakeholders, manufacturing partners, and external suppliers and tooling vendors

Ability to travel up to 80%; travel requirements will vary based on business needs and project demands, including support for plant trials, supplier engagement, and cross-functional collaboration

• Salary Range: $96,800 - $160,000
• 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

• Bachelor’s degree in Packaging, Plastics Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related materials-based discipline.
• ~10-15 years of experience in packaging development with a deep focus on injection molded technology, preferably within the food & beverage or consumer goods industry.
• Deep, hands-on expertise in:
• Injection molding and blow molding processes
• Tooling design and development
• Resin selection and material science
• Qualification and commercialization of rigid packaging formats
• Expertise in polymer science, mold flow analysis, and packaging performance testing.
• Experience with sustainability-driven packaging innovation, including lightweighting, recyclability, and alternative resins.
• Strong project management, analytical, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to lead projects, influence cross-functional teams and develop technical talent.

Leadership & Impact:

• Builds and develops technical capability within the team
• Drives efficient, scalable, and high-performing packaging solutions
• Contributes to advancement of packaging technologies and capabilities
• Helps define and elevate technical standards across packaging engineering

Keurig Dr Pepper (Nasdaq: KDP) is a leading beverage company with more than 150 owned, licensed and partner brands that meet a wide range of needs and occasions. Our North American refreshment beverage business holds leadership positions across carbonated soft drinks, water, juice and mixers with a portfolio of iconic brands such as Dr Pepper®, Canada Dry®, Mott’s®, A&W®, Peñafiel®, GHOST®, 7UP®, Snapple®, Clamato® and Core Hydration®. Our global coffee business spans more than 100 markets and includes the leading Keurig® single‑serve brewing system in the U.S. and Canada, along with powerhouse brands such as Peet’s, L’OR and Jacobs, and other regional coffee leaders. Our more than 50,000 employees aim to enhance the experience of every beverage and coffee occasion while making a positive impact for people, communities and the planet.

We strive to be an employer of choice, providing a culture and opportunities that empower our team 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.

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?

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.  AI does not make hiring decisions; all decisions throughout the hiring process are made by talent acquisition team members.  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. In order for your application to be considered and opted out of AI, you must include the words "AI Opt-Out" and either job title and location or Job ID # in the email subject line in your email application.