Pharmaceutical Packaging Engineer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the ever-evolving pharmaceutical industry, the role of the Pharmaceutical Packaging Engineer has never been more critical.

As health care advances, the demand for proficient individuals who can design, optimize, and safeguard our medicinal packaging continues to rise.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Pharmaceutical Packaging Engineer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager aiming to define the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the complexities of pharmaceutical packaging engineering,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we reveal a customizable Pharmaceutical Packaging Engineer job description template, intended for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Pharmaceutical Packaging Engineer Duties and Responsibilities

Pharmaceutical Packaging Engineers play a vital role in the pharmaceutical industry, ensuring the safe and efficient packaging of medication.

These professionals utilize their technical knowledge and skills to design, test, and implement packaging solutions that meet industry standards and regulations.

Their key duties and responsibilities include:

• Design and develop packaging solutions for pharmaceutical products
• Work closely with product development teams to ensure packaging meets product specifications and requirements
• Conduct regular tests to assess the performance and reliability of packaging
• Ensure all packaging meets regulatory guidelines for safety, quality, and efficacy
• Collaborate with manufacturers and suppliers to develop and source packaging materials
• Implement new packaging technologies to improve efficiency and effectiveness
• Analyze and solve issues related to packaging processes, materials, and designs
• Document all packaging development processes, results, and changes for future reference and audits
• Stay updated on latest industry trends and advancements in pharmaceutical packaging technology

 

Pharmaceutical Packaging Engineer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Pharmaceutical Packaging Engineer to design, develop and implement packaging solutions for our pharmaceutical products.

The responsibilities include determining packaging specifications, material selection, and designing packaging layouts in accordance with regulatory requirements and product specifications.

Ideal candidates possess a thorough understanding of packaging design principles, manufacturing processes, and have a keen eye for detail.

The role of the Pharmaceutical Packaging Engineer is to develop safe, efficient, and compliant packaging solutions that meet the needs of patients, healthcare providers, and our distribution network.

 

Responsibilities

• Design, prototype, and implement packaging solutions for pharmaceutical products.
• Perform packaging material selection based on product requirements and regulatory standards.
• Work closely with production, quality control, and regulatory teams to ensure packaging meets all necessary specifications and regulations.
• Conduct packaging testing and validation processes.
• Document packaging design processes and maintain documentation for regulatory compliance.
• Stay updated on industry standards, trends, and advancements in pharmaceutical packaging.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to troubleshoot packaging issues and develop corrective actions.
• Manage packaging-related projects, ensuring tasks are completed on time and within budget.
• Identify and implement opportunities for packaging process improvement.
• Comply with all safety regulations and maintain clean work environment.

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Packaging Engineer, preferably in the pharmaceutical industry.
• Proficiency in packaging design software such as AutoCAD, ArtiosCAD, or similar.
• Excellent understanding of material science and packaging manufacturing processes.
• Familiarity with pharmaceutical industry regulations, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and ISO standards.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and project management skills.
• BSc degree in Packaging Engineering, Material Science, or a related field.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Pharmaceutical Packaging Engineer
• Work Environment: This role is primarily based in a manufacturing setting. Safety equipment and guidelines must be adhered to at all times.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Packaging Manager or Director of Engineering.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $80,000 minimum to $120,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Pharmaceutical Packaging Engineer Do?

Pharmaceutical Packaging Engineers primarily work in the pharmaceutical industry where they are responsible for the design, development, and testing of packaging systems for pharmaceutical products.

They collaborate with other professionals such as pharmacists, quality assurance teams, and regulatory affairs specialists to ensure that the packaging of medications meets industry standards and regulations.

Their job is to ensure that the packaging is not only safe and functional, but also user-friendly, and that it maintains the efficacy of the medication it contains.

This involves selecting materials, testing package integrity, and developing prototypes for various packaging options.

Pharmaceutical Packaging Engineers also play an important role in the creation and implementation of packaging processes.

They identify, evaluate, and resolve technical challenges that may arise during the packaging development process.

Additionally, they conduct stability studies and validate packaging processes to ensure that the pharmaceutical products are properly protected and preserved until they reach the end user.

Their work can also involve the design of packaging machinery and the layout of packaging lines within manufacturing facilities.

They often work closely with production teams to optimize packaging operations and reduce costs, while maintaining the highest levels of quality and safety.

Pharmaceutical Packaging Engineers also keep abreast of the latest packaging trends and technologies in the pharmaceutical industry, in order to implement innovative solutions and continuous improvement strategies.

 

Pharmaceutical Packaging Engineer Qualifications and Skills

Pharmaceutical Packaging Engineers leverage their technical knowledge, project management skills, and industry expertise to design and develop innovative packaging solutions.

The required skills and qualifications for this role include:

• Strong technical knowledge of packaging materials, machinery, and processes to design and develop effective packaging solutions.
• Proficiency in Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software to design, model, and test packaging solutions.
• Project management skills to oversee the packaging development process from conceptual design to production.
• Excellent problem-solving skills to identify and resolve issues related to packaging design, materials, and manufacturing processes.
• Strong understanding of regulatory requirements and industry standards for pharmaceutical packaging to ensure compliance.
• Attention to detail for creating accurate design specifications, reviewing packaging prototypes, and ensuring quality control.
• Interpersonal and communication skills to collaborate with cross-functional teams, communicate design specifications, and present packaging solutions to stakeholders.
• Knowledge of sustainability practices in packaging to develop environmentally friendly packaging solutions.

 

Pharmaceutical Packaging Engineer Experience Requirements

Entry-level Pharmaceutical Packaging Engineers typically have 1 to 2 years of relevant experience, often acquired through internships or part-time positions in pharmaceutical companies, medical device companies, or healthcare agencies.

Candidates at this level may have gained practical exposure to packaging technology, materials, and testing methodologies, and they may have experience with regulatory requirements in healthcare sectors.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience often have developed their technical skills and knowledge in areas such as packaging development, design, validation, and project management.

They are likely to have experience working cross-functionally with production, quality, and regulatory departments.

Pharmaceutical Packaging Engineers with more than 5 years of experience typically possess a deeper understanding of pharmaceutical packaging systems, are proficient in utilizing design software, have a strong grasp of FDA regulations and other international standards, and have been involved in the end-to-end development and launch of pharmaceutical products.

Those with substantial experience may also have leadership skills and may be prepared for senior or managerial roles.

They may have a proven track record of effectively managing teams, coordinating with multiple departments, driving packaging innovations, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.

 

Pharmaceutical Packaging Engineer Education and Training Requirements

Pharmaceutical Packaging Engineers typically hold a bachelor’s degree in packaging engineering, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, or a related field.

These programs provide a solid foundation in the principles of packaging, materials, and design, and often include courses in physics, chemistry, and mathematics.

Practical experience with computer-aided design (CAD) software is also valuable.

In addition to formal education, hands-on experience in a pharmaceutical or biotech industry setting is advantageous.

This experience may be obtained through internships, cooperative education programs, or entry-level positions.

Continuing education is also important in this field, as packaging technology and regulations evolve rapidly.

This may take the form of graduate coursework, professional seminars, or certification programs.

Some Pharmaceutical Packaging Engineers may choose to pursue a master’s degree or Ph.D. in packaging science or a related field, particularly if they are interested in research or teaching.

Knowledge of regulations set by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other regulatory bodies is crucial for this role.

Therefore, training in regulatory affairs can be beneficial.

In addition to the technical skills, Pharmaceutical Packaging Engineers also need strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work as part of a team.

 

Pharmaceutical Packaging Engineer Salary Expectations

A Pharmaceutical Packaging Engineer can expect to earn an average salary of approximately $79,040 (USD) per year.

However, this figure can fluctuate depending on several factors such as their level of experience in the field, educational qualifications, and the location of their employment.

The type of company or organization that employs them can also significantly influence their overall earnings.

 

Pharmaceutical Packaging Engineer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Pharmaceutical Packaging Engineer need?

Pharmaceutical Packaging Engineers should have a strong background in engineering principles and knowledge of packaging materials and machinery.

They should have excellent problem-solving abilities and attention to detail to ensure packaging meets all regulatory requirements.

They also need good communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.

 

What kind of educational background is required for a Pharmaceutical Packaging Engineer?

A Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Engineering or a related field is typically required for a Pharmaceutical Packaging Engineer role.

Some roles might require a Master’s degree or further specialization in Pharmaceutical Engineering.

Experience in a pharmaceutical or regulated environment can be beneficial.

 

What should you look for in a Pharmaceutical Packaging Engineer’s resume?

Look for a strong educational background in engineering, particularly in packaging or related fields.

Experience in the pharmaceutical industry, particularly in packaging design or production, is crucial.

Proficiency in relevant software tools and knowledge of regulatory requirements are also important.

Any certifications related to packaging engineering can be a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Pharmaceutical Packaging Engineer?

A good Pharmaceutical Packaging Engineer is detail-oriented and has a deep understanding of materials, machinery, and regulations related to pharmaceutical packaging.

They should be problem-solvers, able to devise innovative solutions to packaging challenges.

Good communication skills are also important for collaborating with other departments and presenting packaging concepts and designs.

 

What are the daily duties of a Pharmaceutical Packaging Engineer?

A Pharmaceutical Packaging Engineer typically begins their day by reviewing any ongoing packaging projects and identifying tasks for the day.

They may spend part of their day designing or improving packaging systems, testing packaging for quality and compliance, and troubleshooting any issues that arise.

They also frequently collaborate with other departments, suppliers, and regulatory bodies, and may spend time staying up-to-date with the latest packaging technologies and regulations.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the authentic essence of being a pharmaceutical packaging engineer.

Surprised?

It’s not just about creating secure containers.

It’s about shaping the future of healthcare, one package at a time.

With our essential pharmaceutical packaging engineer job description template and real-world examples, you’re all prepared to make your career move.

But why limit yourself?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your ideal tool for creating precise job listings or refining your resume to absolute perfection.

Don’t forget:

Every pharmaceutical package is a piece of the larger healthcare puzzle.

Let’s construct that healthier future. Together.