Technical Engineer - Chemical Engineering/Material Sciences
- Location
- Ridgefield Park, NJ
- Work type
- Full Time
- Posted
- 2026-09-08
Job description
Process & Manufacturing Engineering
Lead the development, optimization, and troubleshooting of flexible plastic film manufacturing processes, including PE, PET, OPP, PA, and multilayer laminate structures.
Optimize extrusion (blown or cast), coating, lamination, printing, sealing, and converting operations.
Analyze processing parameters such as temperature, pressure, and dwell time to improve product performance and consistency.
Support equipment trials, new installations, process scale-up activities, and validation efforts.
Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions to maintain product quality and operational efficiency.
Materials & Mechanical Performance
Evaluate and improve mechanical properties including tensile strength, seal strength, tear resistance, and puncture resistance.
Assess and enhance barrier performance characteristics such as OTR and MVTR for food, industrial, and cosmetic packaging applications.
Conduct and interpret ASTM-based materials and mechanical testing.
Develop, validate, and implement new materials, layer structures, adhesives, and process improvements.
Quality, Compliance & Safety
Support compliance with FDA food-contact regulations (21 CFR 174–178) and applicable international standards.
Assist with audits, corrective actions, statistical process control (SPC), Cp/Cpk analysis, and technical documentation.
Promote safe work practices and sound engineering judgment within a manufacturing environment.
Collaboration & Technical Leadership
Work directly on the production floor to oversee trials and implement engineering solutions.
Collaborate with Production, Quality, R&D, and Commercial teams to bring new packaging innovations to market.
Provide technical support for customer inquiries and product performance issues.
Contribute to continuous improvement, waste reduction, and cost-saving initiatives.
Support the development of sustainable and recyclable packaging solutions.
Qualifications:
Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Polymer Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
3–5 years of experience in a manufacturing or technical engineering environment.
Experience within the flexible packaging industry is strongly preferred.
Familiarity with extrusion, lamination, sealing, or converting technologies is preferred.
Knowledge of polymer processing, material characterization, and mechanical testing methods.
Understanding of food packaging regulations and compliance requirements is a plus.
Ability to thrive in a hands-on, on-site manufacturing environment.
Key Traits for Success
Self-driven and capable of working independently with minimal supervision.
Hands-on approach, comfortable balancing production-floor activities with technical analysis.
Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to implement practical solutions.
Sound technical judgment and confidence in decision-making.
Detail-oriented, results-focused, and committed to continuous improvement.
This opportunity is designed for an engineer who:
Thinks critically and challenges conventional assumptions.
Takes initiative and drives meaningful improvements.
Accepts ownership and accountability for project outcomes.
Aspires to grow into a key technical leadership role within the organization.
Work Environment
This is a fully on-site manufacturing position that requires regular time spent in industrial production environments. Occasional travel to internal facilities and customer locations may be required.
Benefits
401(k)
Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
Health Savings Account (HSA)
Life Insurance
Performance-Based Bonus Opportunities