Cibo Vita, co-founded in 2009 by Emre Imamoglu and Ahmet Celik, produces private-label health-conscious snacks, specializing in dried fruit and nut blends for nationwide distribution. The company's flagship brand, Nature's Garden, aims to redefine snacking expectations with authentic and innovative products. Cibo Vita's snacks can be found in supermarkets, retail chains, specialty shops, and c-stores nationwide, earning industry accolades and certifications, with headquarters in Totowa, NJ.
Role Description
As a Packaging Engineering Manager, you will lead the design, development, and optimization of packaging solutions for our food products. This role requires a strong understanding of packaging materials, processes, and regulatory requirements, as well as a passion for sustainability and innovation.
Key Responsibilities: • Design and develop packaging solutions that meet product specifications and enhance shelf life. • Collaborate with R&D, marketing, and production teams to ensure packaging aligns with product goals and
meets industry standards and regulatory requirements. • Lead efforts to implement sustainable packaging solutions that minimize environmental impact. • Stay updated on packaging regulations and trends to maintain compliance. • Evaluate and collaborate with packaging suppliers to source materials and services. • Negotiate contracts and manage vendor relationships to ensure quality and cost-effectiveness. • Oversee packaging projects from concept to production, ensuring timelines and budgets are met. • Prepare reports and presentations for stakeholders on project status and results. • Dyeline Selection/Development
Packaging Expert (PE) will assist Sales in choosing existing dyelines/developing new dyelines with suppliers once Customer/Business Development have agreed upon net weights.
Bench Fills
Conduct bench fills with Sales/Sample Room teams to get an idea of product in proposed packaging, bags/jars/cartons, etc.
Approval Process
Present and confirm in writing with Production Team Engineer for approvals of dyelines/bench fill/case configurations before moving project forward.
Adhering to deadlines on projects
PE to proof and approve all packaging designs
Proof final art files from Customer/Cibo Vita before sending to printer/match dyelines in every process once dyelines are decided
Graphics Initiation
Work with Customer/Cibo Vita graphics team to begin this process
Artwork Proofing Stage
Transition to main coordinator for proofing process i.e. handling proofing checklists, recording feedback in respective customer portals, finalizing printer proofs etc. Plan and execute testing with suppliers and our Production team to test new materials. Determine next steps if approved and corrections if need to be made.
Case Development
Assist in choosing existing cases/developing new cases with suppliers
Complete all customer forms about packaging/sustainability.
Gather details from suppliers and respond back to the customer
Troubleshoot with the Engineering team when packaging issues arise.
Secure samples upon entering the building and test and proof new packaging.
Qualifications: • Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Food Science, Mechanical Engineering, or related field. • 3+ years of experience in packaging engineering, preferably in the food industry. • Strong knowledge of packaging materials, design principles, and manufacturing processes. • Experience with sustainability practices in packaging. • Excellent project management and leadership skills. • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.