Packaging Engineer

Overview Founded in 1920, Eastman is a global specialty materials company that produces a broad range of products found in items people use every day. Eastman’s purpose is to enhance the quality of life in a material way, working with customers to deliver innovative products and solutions while maintaining a commitment to safety and sustainability. The company’s growth model leverages world-class technology platforms, deep customer engagement, and differentiated application development to lead in attractive end markets such as transportation, building and construction, and consumables. Eastman employs approximately 14,000 people worldwide and serves customers in more than 100 countries. The 2024 revenue was approximately $9.4 billion; Eastman is headquartered in Kingsport, Tennessee, USA. Location for this role is primarily on-site in Kingsport, TN, with openness to remote work arrangements. Responsibilities Provide technical leadership and mentorship on packaging properties, converting processes (e.g., extrusion coating, lamination, metallization, printing, filling, sealing), performance testing and application requirements specific to film and paper-based solutions. Lead customer facing projects regarding the design, development, and optimization of paper-based flexible packaging structures, including multi-layer laminates incorporating paper substrates, coatings, and sustainable barrier materials. Drive innovation in sustainable paper packaging by evaluating new raw materials, bio-based coatings, and recyclable/compostable barrier technologies. Develop and maintain detailed packaging specifications, technical documentation, and compliance requirements tailored to paper-based flexible packaging. Engage the packaging value chain to discover needs across multiple applications and prioritize opportunities for development work. Influence decision makers at customers to adopt new packaging solutions. Monitor industry trends and regulatory developments related to paper-based packaging and sustainability to inform strategic decisions. Partner with marketing and business development teams to deliver new business growth. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field; advanced degree preferred. Minimum 10 years of industry experience in flexible packaging design and development, with both paper and film-based packaging materials and solutions required. Willingness and ability to travel approximately 25%, mainly within North America. Deep technical understanding of paper substrates, coatings, barrier technologies, and converting processes. Understanding of packaging requirements across different food packaging applications, including considerations for barrier, shelf life, regulatory compliance, and food safety. Proven expertise in packaging performance testing related to film and paper-based materials. Strong knowledge of sustainability principles, recyclable and compostable packaging standards, and regulatory compliance for paper-based packaging. Experience engaging multiple points along the packaging value chain is highly desired. Excellent written and oral communication skills. Project leadership experience preferred, including short-term and long-term project planning and participation on cross-functional teams. Self-motivated and able to work both independently and as a team member with internal and external partners. Note Eastman will not accept applicants for this offered position who require visa sponsorship, including those whose status is F-1 visa OPT who subsequently would require ongoing visa sponsorship. Eastman Chemical Company is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, pregnancy, veteran status or any other protected classes as designated by law. Eastman is committed to creating a highly engaged workforce, where everyone can contribute to their fullest potential each day. #J-18808-Ljbffr