Packaging & Filling Engineering Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Packaging & Filling Engineering Design Manager

Company: Flora Food Group

Location: Katowice, Poland (with potential travel to Netherlands & Germany)

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering / Manufacturing Operations & GTM Strategy

Date Posted: May 13, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This senior technical leadership role focuses on defining, developing, and deploying the global strategy for packaging equipment design, filling, and packing technologies.

• It involves shaping technical standards, driving innovation in packaging solutions, and leading the deployment of new technologies across international operations.

• The position requires a blend of engineering design leadership, technology strategy, innovation management, and Capex project oversight for packaging and filling platforms.

• The goal is to ensure packaging and filling systems meet future requirements for efficiency, sustainability, product flexibility, and overall performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a strategic, high-impact position within Global Engineering, directly influencing the efficiency, innovation, and sustainability of Flora Food Group's packaging operations worldwide. It requires a strong blend of technical expertise, project management, and strategic thinking.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Define and deploy the global strategy for packaging equipment design, filling & packing technologies, and packaging innovation across Flora Food Group.

• Shape global technical standards for packaging equipment, filling systems, and complete packing lines.

• Lead the development of User Requirement Specifications (URS), scope definitions, and engineering design standards for packaging solutions.

• Translate innovation and sustainability requirements into practical engineering specifications and ensure consistency, safety, quality, and performance across global manufacturing sites.

• Drive technology scouting and innovation deployment by identifying and evaluating new automation, digital, and equipment solutions in the packaging space.

• Champion sustainability initiatives, focusing on energy efficiency, waste reduction, decarbonisation, and circularity within packaging systems.

• Lead selected large-scale Capex projects (above €5 million) from feasibility and concept design through to execution, procurement support, Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), commissioning, and start-up.

• Provide technical support to manufacturing sites for troubleshooting, capacity improvements, Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) optimisation, and debottlenecking related to packaging processes.

• Collaborate closely with R&D Packaging, Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Procurement, and external technology partners to define and deliver the packaging technology roadmap.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core of this role is strategic global standardization and innovation deployment for packaging and filling. Responsibilities span from high-level strategy to hands-on project leadership and site support, emphasizing a holistic approach to packaging engineering within a global FMCG context.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Industrial, Process, Mechatronics, or Packaging Engineering.

Experience:

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in relevant engineering roles, with a strong focus on packaging engineering, filling systems, or packaging technology.

• Proven track record in managing mid- to large-scale Capex projects, with budgets exceeding €5 million.

Required Skills:

• Deep technical expertise in packaging equipment, materials, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), food safety standards, and automation.

• Proficiency in developing User Requirement Specifications (URS) documents, technical standards, and detailed equipment specifications.

• Strong understanding of sustainability and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) requirements and their translation into equipment and system design.

• Experience in technology scouting and evaluating new automation and digital equipment solutions.

• Demonstrated ability to manage complex, international Capex projects from concept to commissioning.

• Experience working with suppliers, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), and cross-functional teams.

• Strong communication, influencing, and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to work across multiple stakeholders and functions.

• Ability to work independently while aligning global teams towards common objectives.

Preferred Skills:

• Additional European languages are considered a plus.

• Experience with OEE optimisation and debottlenecking strategies in manufacturing settings.

• Familiarity with circular economy principles in packaging.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on Capex project management, URS development, and specific industry experience (FMCG/Food & Beverage) combined with technical depth in packaging and automation are key differentiators for this role. Fluency in English is critical, but multilingualism enhances global collaboration.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrable experience in developing and implementing global technical standards for packaging equipment and filling lines.

• Case studies showcasing successful management of large-scale Capex projects within the food & beverage or FMCG sectors, highlighting budget adherence and timeline delivery.

• Examples of URS documents created and how they translated into successful equipment procurement and implementation.

• Evidence of innovation deployment projects in packaging technology, demonstrating a proactive approach to leveraging new solutions.

Process Documentation:

• Examples of process optimization within packaging lines, illustrating improvements in efficiency, OEE, or throughput.

• Workflow diagrams or process maps related to equipment design, procurement, and commissioning phases.

• Documentation of technology scouting processes and how new solutions were evaluated and integrated into the company's technology roadmap.

• Records of collaboration with R&D, Manufacturing, and Supply Chain teams on packaging innovation and implementation projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates are expected to showcase tangible evidence of their strategic and technical contributions to packaging operations, particularly through project portfolios that highlight leadership in Capex, standardization, innovation, and sustainability. The ability to articulate process improvements and technological advancements with data is crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated range for a Packaging & Filling Engineering Design Manager in Katowice, Poland, with 10+ years of experience and a Master's degree advantage, typically falls between €80,000 - €120,000 annually. This is based on industry benchmarks for senior engineering leadership roles in the FMCG/Food & Beverage sector in Western/Central Europe, considering the cost of living and demand for specialized skills.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance package.

• Pension scheme contributions.

• Generous paid time off (vacation, public holidays).

• Opportunities for professional development, training, and attending industry conferences.

• Support for travel expenses related to international business trips (supplier visits, FATs, site support).

• Potential for performance-based bonuses or incentives.

• Employee assistance programs.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are typically 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday.

• Flexibility may be required to accommodate international project timelines, supplier FATs, and critical commissioning phases, which could involve occasional extended hours or weekend work, with compensatory time off or arrangements in place.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimates are based on general market data for comparable roles in Poland and the wider European region. Specific benefits can vary, and candidates should inquire during the interview process for the most accurate details. The role's international scope and project-driven nature may necessitate some flexibility in working hours.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Food & Beverage (specifically focused on food products). Flora Food Group operates within a highly competitive and dynamic consumer goods market, where efficiency, innovation, and sustainability are paramount. This context means that operations and engineering functions are critical to maintaining market leadership and adapting to consumer trends.

Company Size: Flora Food Group is a significant player in the food industry, suggesting a large, established organization with multiple manufacturing sites and a global presence. This implies a structured environment with established processes but also opportunities for significant impact through strategic initiatives.

Founded: While the founding date isn't provided, Flora Food Group's established presence in the market suggests a history of growth and adaptation, likely involving mergers, acquisitions, and continuous investment in technology and infrastructure.

Team Structure:

• The role sits within the Global Engineering team, a central function responsible for setting technical direction and standards across all operational sites.

• This team likely collaborates closely with regional Engineering, Manufacturing Operations, R&D Packaging, Supply Chain, Procurement, and Quality Assurance departments.

Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making is expected, especially concerning Capex investments, OEE improvements, and sustainability targets.

• Emphasis on standardized processes and best practices for equipment design, procurement, and deployment to ensure consistency and reliability across global operations.

• A proactive approach to innovation and technology scouting is encouraged to keep the company at the forefront of packaging advancements.

• Cross-functional collaboration is a key operational methodology, ensuring alignment between engineering, R&D, and manufacturing.

Company Website: https://www.florafoodgroup.com/ (Assuming this is the correct corporate URL for career postings)

📝 Enhancement Note: The role's position within Global Engineering highlights its strategic importance. The company culture likely values technical excellence, collaboration, and a forward-thinking approach to innovation and sustainability within the demanding food and beverage sector.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior management and leadership position within the engineering and operations domain. It represents a significant step for an engineer looking to influence global strategy, manage high-value projects, and drive technological advancements in packaging. The role requires a blend of deep technical expertise and strategic leadership.

Reporting Structure: The position reports into a senior leadership role within Global Engineering, likely a Director or VP of Engineering. The individual will work closely with peers in other engineering disciplines and collaborate extensively with site-level operations and manufacturing leadership.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct and significant impact on Flora Food Group's operational efficiency, product quality, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability goals. By defining and deploying optimal packaging and filling technologies, the manager will influence product shelf-life, consumer experience, manufacturing throughput, and the company's environmental footprint. Strategic decisions made in this role can lead to substantial cost savings, revenue protection, and enhanced brand perception.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas of packaging technology, automation, or sustainability within the food industry.

• Project Leadership: Progress to managing larger, more complex, or a portfolio of global engineering projects, potentially including new plant builds or major facility upgrades.

• Leadership Progression: Advance into higher-level engineering management roles, such as Head of Global Engineering or Director of Manufacturing Technology, overseeing broader operational domains.

• Cross-Functional Moves: Opportunities to move into broader supply chain, manufacturing operations, or procurement leadership roles, leveraging a strong understanding of operational assets and technology.

• Industry Influence: Become a recognized expert within the food packaging and engineering industry, potentially through industry associations or speaking engagements.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a critical juncture for career growth, offering a pathway to senior leadership by demonstrating strategic impact and technical mastery in a key operational area. The global scope and project complexity provide excellent visibility and development opportunities.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The primary work location is Katowice, Poland, likely an office environment within a Flora Food Group facility or a dedicated engineering hub. This setting will be professional, collaborative, and equipped for engineering design and project management tasks.

Office Location(s):

• Primary: Katowice, Poland.

• Travel Required: Regular travel to Netherlands (Wageningen) and Germany (Kleve, Pratau) for project meetings, supplier visits, and FATs. Occasional travel to other Flora Food Group manufacturing sites globally may also be required.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely involve a combination of office-based design and analysis work, meetings with cross-functional teams, and on-site visits to manufacturing facilities and supplier workshops.

• Access to advanced design software, project management tools, and potentially simulation or modeling software will be available.

• A collaborative environment is expected, with opportunities to engage with engineers, project managers, and operational leaders across different geographies.

• The role demands a balance between focused individual work on design and strategy, and active engagement in team discussions and problem-solving sessions.

Work Schedule: The standard 40-hour work week is the baseline. However, given the global nature of the role and the project-driven responsibilities (especially Capex projects, FATs, and commissioning), flexibility will be essential. This may include occasional early starts or late finishes to align with different time zones or intense project phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a dynamic work environment that blends office-based strategic work with significant international travel to project sites and supplier locations. The ability to adapt to different operational contexts and collaborate across cultures is key.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV/LinkedIn profile by HR or a recruitment specialist to assess basic qualifications and experience.

• Hiring Manager Interview: Discussion with the Hiring Manager (likely a senior engineering leader) to delve into technical expertise, project management experience, and strategic thinking related to packaging engineering.

• Technical Assessment/Case Study: A detailed technical challenge or case study presentation focusing on designing a packaging solution, optimizing a filling line, or managing a Capex project. This will assess problem-solving skills, technical depth, and ability to translate requirements into actionable plans.

• Cross-Functional Interviews: Meetings with key stakeholders from R&D, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and potentially Procurement to evaluate collaboration skills, communication style, and alignment with company values.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a higher-level executive (e.g., VP of Engineering or Operations) for final assessment of strategic fit and leadership potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Project Impact: Clearly articulate the scope, challenges, your role, and the quantifiable outcomes of your most significant packaging engineering and Capex projects. Focus on metrics like cost savings, efficiency gains (OEE improvements), sustainability impact, and successful technology deployment.

• Standardization Examples: Showcase instances where you developed or implemented technical standards for equipment or processes, explaining the benefits and challenges of standardization in a global context.

• URS & Specification Development: Include anonymized examples of URS documents or critical equipment specifications you've authored, highlighting your attention to detail and understanding of operational requirements.

• Innovation Showcase: Present examples of how you identified, evaluated, and implemented innovative packaging technologies or automation solutions.

• Sustainability Integration: Detail how you incorporated sustainability considerations (energy efficiency, waste reduction, circularity) into your engineering designs and project scopes.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Be prepared for questions that present hypothetical challenges related to packaging line design, troubleshooting, supplier management, or sustainability targets.

• Data Interpretation: Practice interpreting data related to OEE, production output, material usage, and energy consumption to support your recommendations.

• Strategic Articulation: Develop clear and concise ways to articulate your global strategy for packaging technology, emphasizing how it aligns with business objectives.

• Stakeholder Alignment: Prepare examples of how you have managed conflicting priorities or gained buy-in from diverse stakeholder groups on complex engineering initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to thoroughly assess both technical prowess and strategic leadership. A well-curated portfolio that demonstrates quantifiable results and a clear understanding of global operations will be a significant asset.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency in industry-standard CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Inventor) for equipment design and schematic development.

• Project Management Software: Experience with tools like Microsoft Project, Asana, Jira, or similar for managing Capex projects, timelines, and resource allocation.

• Simulation & Modeling Tools: Familiarity with simulation software for packaging line performance analysis, material flow, or process optimization (e.g., Arena, AnyLogic) may be beneficial.

• ERP Systems: Understanding of how packaging equipment and materials integrate with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems for procurement and inventory management.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Proficiency in Excel for data analysis, reporting, and financial modeling related to project proposals and OEE tracking.

• BI/Dashboarding Tools: Experience with Business Intelligence platforms like Tableau, Power BI, or Qlik Sense for creating performance dashboards and visualizing key metrics related to packaging operations and project progress.

CRM & Automation:

• PLM Systems: Familiarity with Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems for managing product and packaging specifications, and engineering change orders.

• Automation Control Systems: Understanding of PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) principles and SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems commonly used in packaging line automation.

• Integration Platforms: Awareness of how packaging machinery integrates with broader plant automation systems and enterprise-level software.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tools are not listed, a strong foundation in CAD, project management, and data analysis is essential. Familiarity with automation control principles and BI tools will enhance a candidate's suitability for driving efficiency and smart manufacturing initiatives.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Execution: A commitment to delivering high-quality engineering solutions, robust designs, and successful project outcomes that meet stringent safety, quality, and performance standards.

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: A culture that encourages seeking out and adopting new technologies, optimizing existing processes, and challenging the status quo to drive efficiency and sustainability.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: A strong emphasis on cross-functional partnerships, open communication, and shared problem-solving to achieve common business objectives across global teams.

• Sustainability & Responsibility: A dedication to environmental stewardship, resource efficiency, and ethical practices in all engineering and operational decisions.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: A reliance on data and analytics to inform strategic choices, measure performance, and justify investments in technology and process improvements.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive Engagement: Actively seeking input and collaboration from R&D, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Procurement to ensure holistic solutions.

• Clear Communication: Maintaining transparent and consistent communication channels, especially across international teams and with external partners.

• Knowledge Sharing: Fostering an environment where best practices, lessons learned, and technical insights are freely shared to elevate the capabilities of the entire engineering organization.

• Constructive Feedback: Engaging in open dialogue and providing constructive feedback to drive continuous improvement in processes, designs, and team performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company likely values a blend of technical rigor, strategic foresight, and collaborative spirit. Candidates should demonstrate an understanding of how these values translate into daily operations and project execution within a global food manufacturing context.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Global Standardization Complexity: Implementing consistent technical standards and best practices across diverse manufacturing sites with varying existing infrastructure and operational cultures.

• Pace of Innovation: Keeping abreast of rapid advancements in packaging technology, automation, and sustainability solutions while balancing their practical applicability and ROI for Flora Food Group.

• Capex Project Management: Successfully managing large-scale, high-value Capex projects under budget and on schedule, mitigating risks associated with global supply chains, supplier reliability, and site-specific constraints.

• Sustainability Integration: Translating ambitious sustainability goals (decarbonisation, circularity) into tangible engineering designs and operational changes that are both effective and economically viable.

• Cross-Cultural Collaboration: Effectively leading and influencing teams and stakeholders across different countries, languages, and business cultures.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Packaging Technology: Gaining in-depth knowledge of cutting-edge filling, sealing, and processing technologies.

• Digitalization in Manufacturing: Exploring and implementing Industry 4.0 concepts, IoT, and data analytics for packaging line optimization.

• Sustainability Engineering: Developing expertise in circular economy principles, LCA (Life Cycle Assessment), and sustainable materials in packaging.

• Strategic Project Leadership: Enhancing skills in portfolio management, strategic planning, and executive stakeholder engagement for large-scale engineering initiatives.

• Cross-Functional Acumen: Broadening understanding of supply chain logistics, manufacturing operations, and R&D processes to better integrate packaging solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents significant challenges that are directly tied to substantial growth opportunities. Overcoming these challenges will build invaluable experience in global operations, strategic engineering, and advanced manufacturing technology.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to developing and deploying a global technical standard for packaging equipment across multiple international sites. What are the key challenges and how do you ensure buy-in?" (Focus on: Standardization methodology, stakeholder management, change management, risk mitigation.)

• "Walk me through a significant Capex project you managed for packaging or filling equipment. What was the budget, timeline, key challenges, and the ultimate ROI or operational improvement achieved?" (Focus on: Project lifecycle management, financial acumen, problem-solving, quantifiable results.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on your understanding of Flora Food Group and the food & beverage industry, what do you see as the biggest packaging engineering challenges and opportunities for our company in the next 3-5 years?" (Focus on: Industry insight, strategic thinking, alignment with company goals.)

• "How do you foster collaboration between engineering, R&D, and manufacturing teams, especially when implementing new packaging solutions?" (Focus on: Teamwork, communication, conflict resolution, cross-functional experience.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, use a STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) or similar framework. Clearly define the problem, your role, the actions you took, and the measurable results.

• Quantify Everything: Use numbers – budget managed, savings achieved, OEE improvement percentages, reduction in waste, increase in throughput, project completion time saved.

• Visual Aids: Use concise slides with diagrams, charts, and impactful images to illustrate your points. For CAD work, show key design elements. For projects, use timelines or process flow diagrams.

• Focus on Impact: Emphasize how your work directly contributed to business objectives such as cost reduction, quality improvement, sustainability targets, or competitive advantage.

• Tailor to Flora Food Group: Research Flora Food Group's current initiatives, product lines, and any public statements on sustainability or innovation to tailor your examples and demonstrate relevance.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare to discuss your experience using concrete examples and data. The interview will likely assess your ability to think strategically, manage complex projects, and drive innovation while navigating the specific demands of the food and beverage industry.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Packaging & Filling Engineering Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the Flora Food Group careers portal, providing your CV or LinkedIn Profile as requested.

• Tailor Your CV/LinkedIn: Highlight keywords and responsibilities directly related to packaging engineering, filling systems, Capex project management (especially >€5M), URS development, GMP, food safety, automation, and sustainability within FMCG/Food & Beverage contexts.

• Prepare Portfolio Examples: Select 2-3 key projects that best showcase your experience in global standardization, large-scale Capex execution, or driving packaging innovation. Be ready to discuss them in detail, focusing on quantifiable results and your specific contributions.

• Research Flora Food Group: Understand their product portfolio, market position, sustainability commitments, and any recent news or innovation announcements to tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.

• Practice Your Story: Rehearse articulating your experience and qualifications using the STAR method, focusing on your strategic approach, technical expertise, and leadership capabilities. Be prepared for technical questions and case study scenarios.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.