Packaging Technologist

Role Overview

We are seeking a Technical Advisor with a strong understanding of plastic packaging, packaging design and waste management to help organisations reduce packaging waste and accelerate their transition to a circular economy.

In this impactful role, you will act as a principal subject matter expert on packaging sustainability, supporting organisations across a range of sectors. You will conduct technical packaging audits, provide actionable Design-for-Recycling (DfR) guidance, and interpret evolving European packaging regulations into practical business strategies.

Core Functions

• Provide packaging consultancy and technical guidance to organisations on packaging design, recyclability, waste prevention and waste management best practice.
• Support the delivery, continuous improvement and enhancement of member/client-facing technical services.
• Provide technical expertise relating to packaging sustainability, recyclability and requirements arising from the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).
• Support wider teams and cross-functional business objectives through packaging and sustainability expertise.

Responsibilities

• Deliver packaging consultancy and waste-prevention programmes, including the preparation of technical reports, assessments and recommendations.
• Conduct packaging portfolio audits and identify opportunities for:
• Plastic reduction
• Lightweighting
• Packaging minimisation
• Improved recyclability
• Transition to highly recyclable mono-material solutions
• Increased use of recycled materials, including rPET where appropriate
• Reuse and waste prevention
• Improved packaging waste management
• Act as a subject matter expert on packaging materials and provide Design-for-Recycling advice, including guidance on recyclability and relevant packaging legislation and PPWR requirements.
• Support the development and enhancement of customer/member-facing tools, guidance documents and technical resources.
• Deliver presentations, webinars, workshops and training sessions to customers, members and relevant stakeholders.
• Represent the organisation at seminars, conferences, industry forums, networking events and working groups, both nationally and internationally, as required.
• Assist with the development of technical content for publications, guidance documents, industry resources and communications.
• Participate in inter-departmental and cross-functional projects, working collaboratively with teams across the organisation.
• Provide support to day-to-day activities within the relevant department and wider organisation as required.
• Support the design, operation and development of customer/member-facing digital tools under appropriate technical direction.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Degree in Polymer Engineering, Materials Science, Packaging Technology, Sustainable Development, Food Science or a related technical discipline.
• At least 3 years' experience in a similar or related role.
• Full clean driving licence and willingness to travel as required.

Knowledge, Skills & Experience

• Degree or diploma in Packaging Technology, Materials Science, Polymer Engineering, Sustainable Development, Food Science or a related discipline.
• At least 3 years' industry experience in the FMCG, manufacturing, retail or packaging sectors.
• Strong knowledge of sustainable packaging materials and regulatory compliance.
• Working knowledge of the implications of the PPWR for businesses using packaging.
• Good knowledge of packaging materials, packaging systems and packaging sustainability best practice.
• Strong understanding of packaging recyclability and circular economy principles.
• Ability to assess packaging formats and identify practical opportunities for material reduction, improved recyclability and waste prevention.
• Strong presentation and communication skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts clearly to a wide range of audiences.
• Strong customer service, relationship management and stakeholder engagement capabilities.
• Full clean driving licence and willingness to travel.