Unwrapping the future: Exploring the most in-demand packaging careers

Ever considered a career in the packaging industry?

If you’re like most, you barely knew it existed until you were today years old. Sure, those single-serve snacks and smart packaging features are super cool, but have you considered how they got there? It's the smart, creative people that work in packaging.

What’s cool about the packaging industry is it needs all skillsets, experience levels, and areas if expertise. Whatever your background, there’s likely a place for you.

According to Monster.com, “experts describe the $900 billion global packaging industry as innovative, stable and creative.” If you have a growing family or have a ton of student loans to pay off (or both!), having a career in a stable sector is important. The packaging industry offers that security.

"Experts describe the $900 billion global packaging industry as innovative, stable and creative.” - Monster.com

This industry is well insulated against economic ups and downs because there is always a need for packaging. The economy is booming? Consumers are shopping more, buying more, and willing to pay top dollar for convenient packaging. The economy is crashing because of a global pandemic? Consumers are stocking up on budget-friendly bulk packages of necessities. Either way, these goods need packaging. And so the packaging industry needs you.

You may have never considered a job in the packaging industry until right now, but opportunities abound.

Check out the most in-demand packaging careers:

1. Automation and Robotics Specialist

Want to be at the forefront of cutting-edge packaging technology? Automation and Robotics Specialists get to work directly with the latest tech in the packaging industry. You'll drive the adoption of exciting robotics and automation technologies, revolutionizing the way products are packaged and delivered.

Skills that will score you a job offer:

• You're well-versed in robotics and automation technologies and have a passion for integrating them into packaging machinery.
• You can effortlessly explain complex tech concepts to clients, making you their trusted advisor.
• Challenges are your playground, and your ability to find solutions sets you apart.

2. Electrical Engineer

Electrical Engineers in the packaging equipment industry design and maintain electrical systems and components of packaging systems. They work on controls, motors, sensors, and other electrical elements critical for the functioning of machinery.

Skills that will score you a job offer:

• You've got the magic touch with electrical engineering, and your expertise in controls, circuits, PLC programming, and automation is top-notch.
• You excel at managing timelines and delivering successful outcomes.
• Challenges are just opportunities in disguise for you, and your problem-solving skills are second to none.

3. Mechanical Engineer

Hey there, visionary creator! If you live and breathe design, have a passion for precision engineering, and dream of crafting innovative solutions to unique challenges, the packaging industry is the perfect canvas for you. Mechanical engineers play a key role in designing and testing the mechanical components of packaging systems. They focus on ensuring durability, reliability, and smooth operation of the equipment.

Skills that will score you a job offer:

• You're an ace in CAD software and have a knack for transforming concepts into detailed and innovative mechanical designs.
• Challenges don't intimidate you; they excite you! You enjoy finding solutions to complex engineering puzzles.
• You thrive in a team environment, bouncing ideas off others and turning them into reality.

4. Field Service Technician

Explore new horizons as a Field Service Tech, where you’ll have the chance to travel to various locations and work on packaging systems worldwide. You’ll tackle unique challenges and ensure the smooth startup and operation of packaging systems for diverse customer requirements.

Skills that will score you a job offer:

• You're a technical wizard, with a talent for diagnosing and fixing machinery with finesse.
• You're a people person, and your ability to connect with clients and deliver exceptional customer service sets you apart.
• Challenges excite you, and your problem-solving skills are unmatched, making you the go-to person for technical issues.

5. Research and Development (R&D) Manager

Break boundaries and be the rockstar of packaging innovation! As a trailblazer, you'll create the future of packaging technology. You’ll analyze market trends, uncover unique customer pain points, and develop creative solutions to packaging challenges.

Skills that will score you a job offer:

• You're no stranger to R&D, and your passion for innovation is contagious. Your track record of successful product development speaks for itself.
• You excel at leading and motivating teams, fostering a collaborative environment where ideas flourish and projects soar.
• Challenges don't intimidate you; they inspire you. Your problem-solving skills are second to none, and you love finding solutions that push the boundaries of what's possible.

6. Project Manager

Ready to take the lead? As a Project Manager, you’ll orchestrate teams to deliver packaging greatness! From project inception to completion, this is your baby. You’ll coordinate teams, manage timelines and budgets, and appropriate resources to ensure successful project completion.

Skills that will score you a job offer:

• You're a natural leader who excels at orchestrating teams and achieving project milestones like a champ.
• You're an empathetic and proactive communicator with a passion for delivering exceptional customer experiences.
• You can rally teams, liaise with stakeholders, and keep everyone on the same page.

7. Sales Manager

If you’re ambitious and results-driven, a sales career in the packaging industry offers virtually unlimited earnings potential. You’ll provide technical expertise, demonstrations, and solutions that align with customer requirements. Like to travel? These careers often take you around the world to meet with clients, attend trade shows, and receive world-class training.

Skills that will score you a job offer:

• You're a force to be reckoned with in the world of sales, with a proven track record of exceeding targets and surpassing expectations.
• You've got the charisma to cultivate lasting relationships with clients, making you their go-to expert for all things packaging.
• You know the packaging machine industry like the back of your hand and are passionate about staying ahead of the curve on industry trends.

Start your career in the packaging industry

Embrace the excitement, unleash your potential, and embark on a thrilling career journey in the packaging industry!

Ready to make your mark? Apply now: