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Perdue Foods has a goal of becoming the most trusted name in premium proteins by creating products for consumers and for retail and foodservice customers around the globe while changing the way animals are raised for food. It is part of Perdue Farms, a fourth-generation, family-owned food and agricultural business deeply rooted in tradition yet with a forward-thinking mindset. We believe that success starts with our people, and our culture is built on a foundation of teamwork, integrity, and respect, where every voice matters and everyone is encouraged to contribute to our shared goals. We are dedicated to creating a supportive, inclusive environment where associates feel valued and inspired to make an impact, both within the company and in the communities we serve. From promoting growth and development to prioritizing work-life balance, we’re committed to helping our team members thrive. **That's Perdue.**

Summary

The Senior Director of Packaging Engineering plays an essential role at Perdue Foods LLC, overseeing all facets of product packaging from concept through execution, ensuring alignment with corporate objectives, regulatory requirements, and sustainability initiatives. Reporting to the Senior Vice President of Research and Development, this position demands a combination of advanced leadership abilities, technical acumen, and strategic foresight to guide a team of engineers and manage complex projects in a dynamic environment.

The salary range for this position is $190,000 - $284,000 per year, based on experience and qualifications with annual bonus available (variable depending on performance).

In addition to the base salary, Perdue offers a competitive benefits package, including medical/Rx, 401(k) with employer match after 1 year, critical illness, accident insurance, dental, vison, life insurance, optional group life insurance, short-term and long-term disability protection, flexible spending accounts and paid time off.

Principal and Essential Duties & Responsibilities

This role is responsible for driving the development and execution of packaging strategies that support company growth and innovation. Responsibilities include formulating commercial packaging plans, managing the packaging portfolio, and leading packaging managers and engineers in delivering timely and high-quality package innovations and renovations.

+ **Package Development:** Lead market, channel, and category exploration to drive innovation from insight through ideation. Deliver profitable solutions via a robust innovation pipeline centered on meaningful value propositions. Enhance packaging credentials in areas such as sustainability, recyclability, and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). Provide expertise in packaging engineering and equipment for new technologies and processes supporting both innovative and core package development.

+ **Research and Category Development:** Collaborate with cross-functional partners and operations leadership to develop annual and long-term operating plans. Identify and implement innovative solutions including automation and upgrading of aging equipment. Evaluate and introduce cutting-edge technologies that drive platform-based solutions.

+ **Consumer, Customer & Markets:** Serve as a commercial thought leader, advancing packaging and product portfolio strategy in line with industry and consumer trends. Foster new capabilities and promote a culture of continuous growth and improvement. Apply market, consumer, customer, and competitive insights to inform commercial strategy and business development. Strengthen the company's industry presence by expanding trade association networks and collaborating with internal and external partners, packaging science institutions, and vendors.

+ **Supervisory / Management Responsibilities:** Establish clear roles and collaborative processes across innovation teams and key cross-functional partners (QA, Operations, Marketing, Sales, Finance). Implement a high-performance talent development framework to support career progression and future leadership. Contribute to the senior leadership team, promoting a performance-driven culture founded on Quality, Integrity, Teamwork, and Stewardship.

+ **Packaging Management Specifics:** Oversee the complete packaging process, from design through implementation, including manufacturing performance, shelf presence, and consumer usability. Manage packaging specifications and maintain compliance through partnerships with internal and external suppliers.

Minimum Education and Experience

Bachelor’s Degree in Packaging Science or Engineering from an accredited university with a recognized Packaging Science/Engineering department and a minimum of 10 years packaging engineering or science experience within a food manufacturing environment required. Preference given to those with experience in the meat industry.

The ideal candidate will also have:

+ **Leadership and Management:**

+ Demonstrated ability to motivate and develop teams through strong people management skills.

+ Proven track record in building and leading successful packaging and innovation teams, encompassing both strategic vision and hands-on execution.

+ At least 5 years of senior leadership and team management experience is expected.

+ **Technical Expertise:** Comprehensive knowledge of primary and secondary packaging materials, sourcing, production, and lifecycle; proficient in packaging processes and equipment.

+ **Strategic Thinking:** Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a focus on results and business curiosity.

+ **Communication:** Superior interpersonal and written/verbal communication abilities.

+ **Other:** High work ethic, detail orientation, proactive approach to challenges, and exceptional problem-solving capabilities. Experience with PowerBI and other analytical tools is advantageous.

Preferred Education and Experience

Master’s degree in Packaging Science or Engineering from an accredited institution and experience within the meat industry.

Environmental Factors and Physical Requirements

1. Position is sedentary and mobile. Will require working in an office, lab and in the pilot plant.

2. May need to move light equipment or supplies from one place to another. Capable of lifting 50lbs.

3. May need to access files, supplies, and equipment.

4. Work activity that is in an office, open-partitioned, cubicle environment.

5. When in a plant environment:

6. Exposure primarily consists of wet and moist floors which include metal and plastic grating surfaces.

7. May be exposed to temperatures of 28 degrees to 100 degrees Fahrenheit with both ambient and 100% humidity.

8. May handle product 25 degrees to 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

9. May be exposed to noise ranges of 50 db to 110 db.

10. May be exposed to all chemicals used in poultry, food, processing facility.

11. Must wear and use protective and safety equipment required for the job as directed by the Company.

_Perdue Farms Inc. is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status._