Packaging Scientist (Multiple Levels)-Austin, MN or Northbrook, IL

Associate Packaging Scientist – Packaging Scientist – Senior Packaging Scientist

Hormel Foods Corporation

About Hormel Foods

Hormel Foods Corporation, based in Austin, Minnesota, is a global branded food company with over $12 billion in annual revenue. Its brands include PLANTERS^®, SKIPPY^®, SPAM^®, HORMEL^® NATURAL CHOICE^®, APPLEGATE^®, WHOLLY^®, HORMEL^® BLACK LABEL^®, COLUMBUS^®, JENNIE-O^® and more than 30 other beloved brands. The Company is a member of the S&P 500 Index and the S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats, was named one of the best companies to work for by U.S. News & World Report and one of America’s most responsible companies by Newsweek, was recognized by TIME magazine as one of the World’s Best Companies and has received numerous other awards and accolades for its corporate responsibility and community service efforts. For more information, visit www.hormelfoods.com.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

This packaging role organizes, plans, directs and conducts research in the area of packaging technologies that will lead to improved and new innovative and creative packaging applications in support of company goals and objectives.  It provides technical advice and assistance to professional and non-professional personnel.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Identifies, facilitates, devises and conducts research in the area of packaging which leads to the development and implementation of new packaging systems for the company.  This involves maintaining competency in cutting edge packaging technology and broad packaging theory, and researching the feasibility of using this technology in conjunction with our products.

• Investigates, recommends and implements packaging cost saving programs by evaluating new enhancements made to packaging materials and/or new design considerations with the planned goal of minimizing the costs associated with our products.

• Fulfills the role as a technical service/troubleshooter when more broadly defined packaging problems at our facilities are beyond the scope of the plant/corporate personnel.  May serve as a resource and advisor to other Packaging Scientists and personnel within the company.

• Develops and plans systems for improving packaging efficiencies within the corporation.  This includes the entering and managing of all packaging specifications for our company’s products and may also include development of software and catalogue systems for collecting critical data regarding packaging materials and package attributes.

• Facilitates practical applications of packaging technology requiring direct interaction with other areas of the company such as Engineering, Operations, Marketing and Purchasing etc.  Oversees the development and integration of packaging technologies with the many vendors and suppliers who work with the company.

• Coordinates and plans specific projects effectively, on a daily basis, with the group’s Research Technicians.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Level of position offered (Associate Packaging Scientist, Packaging Scientist, or Senior Packaging Scientist) will be determined based on candidate’s skill set and experience.

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Engineering or related field

• Project management skills with the ability to lead and run projects smoothly.

• Demonstrated self-motivation, initiative, and creativity

• Ability to work both independently and in a team setting.

• An understanding of basic scientific principles.

• Strong analytical, time management, and record keeping skills.

• Excellent interpersonal skills including good team building skills.

• Excellent written and verbal communications skills with ability to effectively present technical concepts to a nontechnical audience

• Must be a Citizen or National of the United States, a lawful, permanent resident, or have authorization to work in the United States

• Applicants must not now, or in the future, require sponsorship for an employment visa

Preferred

• Packaging Equipment and/or Processing experience

• Knowledge in the area of Package Sustainability including Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR).

Location: Austin, Minnesota (Company HQ) OR Northbrook, IL (R&D Office Location)

At Hormel Foods, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. The base hiring pay range for the role is between $64,400 - $137,300 per year, and your actual base pay within that range will depend upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, job-related knowledge, skill set, level of experience, and geographic market location.

BENEFITS: Other components of Hormel Foods' total compensation package include comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, discretionary annual merit increases, bonuses and profit sharing, 401(k) with employer match, stock purchase plan, paid time off, free two-year community/technical college tuition for children of employees, and more.

At Hormel we invite difference and diversity in all aspects.  We offer a space of support, understanding, and community.  We are committed to the journey!  Learn more about our progress here: https://www.hormelfoods.com/about/inclusion-and-belonging/

Hormel Foods provides equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race; color; sex; gender identity; sexual orientation; religious practices and observances; national origin; pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; status as a protected veteran or spouse/family member of a protected veteran; or disability.