Packaging & Filling Engineering Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Packaging & Filling Engineering Design Manager

Company: Flora Food Group

Location: Kleve, Germany (with potential for Poland/Netherlands)

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering & Operations Management

Date Posted: May 13, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the global strategy for packaging equipment design, filling and packing technologies, and packaging innovation within Flora Food Group's Global Engineering team.

• Define and enforce technical standards for packaging equipment, filling systems, and complete packing lines to ensure global consistency, safety, quality, and performance.

• Drive innovation by identifying, evaluating, and deploying new automation, digital, and equipment solutions, with a strong emphasis on sustainability (energy efficiency, waste reduction, decarbonization, circularity).

• Manage selected large-scale Capital Expenditure (Capex) projects from feasibility and concept design through to execution, commissioning, and startup, ensuring alignment with innovation and sustainability requirements.

• Support manufacturing sites by providing packaging expertise for troubleshooting, capacity enhancements, Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) optimization, and debottlenecking initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior technical leadership position within Global Engineering, focusing on the strategic development and implementation of packaging and filling technologies across the entire Flora Food Group. The emphasis on global standards, innovation, sustainability, and large Capex project oversight indicates a high level of responsibility and strategic impact within the organization's operational framework.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the global strategy for packaging equipment design, filling technology, and packaging innovation, aligning with business objectives and market trends.

• Establish and maintain global technical standards for all packaging equipment, filling systems, and packing lines, ensuring compliance with safety, quality, GMP, and food safety regulations.

• Translate R&D and sustainability requirements into practical engineering specifications and User Requirement Specifications (URS) for new equipment and system designs.

• Lead technology scouting initiatives to identify and evaluate emerging automation, digital, and equipment solutions that can enhance efficiency, sustainability, and product flexibility.

• Oversee and manage assigned Capex projects, including scope definition, vendor selection, budget control, FAT (Factory Acceptance Testing), commissioning, and successful startup, with a focus on projects exceeding €5 million.

• Provide expert technical support to manufacturing sites for troubleshooting packaging-related issues, driving OEE improvements, and implementing debottlenecking solutions.

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

• Champion sustainability initiatives within packaging and filling systems, focusing on energy efficiency, waste reduction, decarbonization, and circular economy principles.

• Manage relationships with suppliers, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), and cross-functional teams to ensure successful project delivery and technology adoption.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of strategic leadership, technical design oversight, project management, and operational support. The emphasis on "global strategy," "technical standards," and "innovation deployment" suggests a role that sets direction and ensures best practices are adopted across all Flora Food Group locations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

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

Experience:

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in relevant engineering roles, with significant expertise in packaging engineering, filling systems, or packaging technology.

• Proven track record in managing mid- to large-scale Capex projects with budgets exceeding €5 million, from conception through to successful execution and commissioning.

Required Skills:

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

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

• Strong understanding of sustainability and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) requirements and their practical application in equipment and system design.

• Demonstrated experience in technology scouting, innovation deployment, and evaluating new automation and digital solutions.

• Exceptional skills in stakeholder management, communication, and influencing across diverse functions and levels within an international organization.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with advanced automation, robotics, and digital technologies within packaging and filling lines.

• Knowledge of specific packaging materials and their performance characteristics in food applications.

• Familiarity with data analysis tools and methodologies for OEE optimization and performance improvement.

• Additional European languages (e.g., German, Polish, Dutch) are considered a plus, facilitating communication across key operational regions.

• Experience in leading or contributing to decarbonization and circular economy initiatives within packaging.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a strong foundation in mechanical and process engineering principles applied specifically to packaging and filling within a regulated industry like food and beverage. The combination of technical depth, project management acumen, and strategic thinking is critical for success.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a track record of successful packaging equipment design and implementation projects, showcasing engineering principles and problem-solving capabilities.

• Provide case studies illustrating the development and deployment of technical standards, URS documents, or equipment specifications that led to measurable improvements in efficiency, quality, or safety.

• Showcase examples of innovation within packaging or filling technologies, highlighting the process from concept to realization and its impact on business objectives.

• Present evidence of managing large-scale Capex projects, detailing project scope, budget management, timeline adherence, vendor interactions, and successful commissioning outcomes.

Process Documentation:

• Exhibit clear documentation of your process for defining User Requirement Specifications (URS), ensuring all critical technical and operational needs are captured.

• Provide examples of how you have documented and standardized processes for packaging equipment selection, procurement, and FAT procedures.

• Showcase documentation related to troubleshooting, OEE optimization, and debottlenecking activities, demonstrating a methodical approach to operational improvements.

• Present documentation related to technology scouting and evaluation processes, outlining how new solutions are assessed for potential deployment.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio for this role should not only showcase completed projects but also illustrate the candidate's systematic approach to engineering design, process standardization, and innovation management within the packaging and filling domain. Quantifiable results and a clear demonstration of strategic thinking are paramount.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage, including dental and vision.

• Generous paid time off (vacation, public holidays) aligned with German labor laws and company policy.

• Company pension scheme contributions and long-term savings plans.

• Opportunities for professional development, including training, conferences, and certifications related to packaging technology, engineering management, and sustainability.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses and incentives tied to project success and strategic goal achievement.

• Relocation assistance may be available for candidates relocating to Germany, Poland, or the Netherlands.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours, typically around 40 hours per week, with flexibility expected to meet project deadlines and operational needs, especially during critical phases of Capex project execution, commissioning, and troubleshooting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The estimated salary range reflects the senior technical leadership and significant project management responsibilities. Benefits are typical for a large, international food group operating within the EU, emphasizing employee well-being and professional growth. Flexibility in working hours is a common expectation for roles managing complex, time-sensitive projects.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Food Production & Processing (FMCG - Fast-Moving Consumer Goods). Flora Food Group is a prominent player in the food industry, likely focusing on dairy, spreads, or similar consumer staples, requiring high standards of quality, safety, and efficiency in their manufacturing processes.

Company Size: Flora Food Group is likely a large, established multinational corporation, given the mention of multiple international locations (Poland, Netherlands, Germany) and a "Global Engineering" team. This implies a structured organization with established processes and a global footprint.

Founded: Information not provided in the raw data, but the company's established presence in the food industry suggests a history of growth and market leadership.

Team Structure:

• You will be part of the Global Engineering team, a specialized unit responsible for driving technical excellence and capital investment across the organization's manufacturing facilities worldwide.

• This role will likely involve direct or indirect leadership of engineers, project managers, and technical specialists focused on packaging and filling technologies.

Methodology:

• The team operates with a data-driven approach, utilizing metrics like OEE, project ROI, and sustainability KPIs to inform decisions and measure success.

• A strong emphasis is placed on standardized processes and best practices, particularly in engineering design, project management, and technology deployment, ensuring consistency across global operations.

• Innovation is fostered through technology scouting, R&D collaboration, and pilot projects, with a focus on practical application and measurable business impact.

Company Website: https://www.florafoodgroup.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on food production necessitates a culture that prioritizes safety, quality, efficiency, and compliance. The global nature of the operations means that an understanding of diverse regulatory environments and cross-cultural collaboration is essential.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior-level engineering management position, representing a significant step in a technical career path. It implies a move from individual contribution or team leadership to strategic technical direction and oversight for a critical operational area across multiple regions.

Reporting Structure: The role reports into the Global Engineering leadership, likely a Director or VP of Engineering. You will be responsible for influencing global engineering strategy and standards, working collaboratively with other global functional leaders and site-specific engineering managers.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct and substantial impact on Flora Food Group's operational efficiency, product quality, market competitiveness, and sustainability goals. By defining and deploying best-in-class packaging and filling technologies, you will contribute to cost savings, waste reduction, improved product shelf-life, enhanced consumer experience, and the company's overall ESG performance.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in cutting-edge packaging technologies, automation, and sustainable solutions, potentially leading to roles as a Principal Engineer or Technical Fellow in packaging.

• Leadership Advancement: Progress into higher leadership positions within Global Engineering, such as Head of Packaging Engineering or Director of Engineering, with broader scope and responsibility for multiple engineering disciplines.

• Cross-Functional Mobility: Opportunities to move into related roles in Supply Chain Management, Manufacturing Excellence, or Global Procurement, leveraging a strong understanding of operational technologies and capital investments.

• Global Project Leadership: Take on leadership of larger, more complex global engineering programs or innovation initiatives that span multiple product categories or regions.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career progression within a large, international organization, providing opportunities for both deep technical mastery and broad leadership development in the critical area of packaging engineering and operations.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is primarily on-site, with significant time expected at manufacturing facilities for project execution, commissioning, and troubleshooting, as well as potential time at R&D centers or supplier locations. While a central office might exist for global teams, the nature of the role demands hands-on involvement in operational environments.

Office Location(s): Key locations mentioned are Kleve (Germany), Katowice (Poland), and Wageningen (Netherlands). This indicates a distributed global engineering presence, requiring travel between these sites and potentially others.

Workspace Context:

• The work environment will be a blend of office-based strategic planning, technical design reviews, and significant time spent on the manufacturing floor, including potentially noisy and demanding environments during commissioning and troubleshooting.

• Access to advanced engineering software, simulation tools, and collaboration platforms will be provided to support design, analysis, and communication.

• Opportunities for hands-on interaction with cutting-edge packaging machinery and automation systems will be frequent.

Work Schedule: While a standard 40-hour work week is the baseline, the role demands flexibility. Extended hours, weekend work, and travel are often required to support critical project milestones, FATs, commissioning activities, and urgent operational issues, particularly when dealing with international timelines and supplier schedules.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be prepared for a dynamic work environment that requires adaptability, comfort with both strategic office work and practical shop-floor engagement, and a willingness to travel extensively.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter or hiring manager will review your application and resume, focusing on key experience in packaging engineering, Capex project management, and FMCG/Food & Beverage environments.

• Technical Interview(s): Expect in-depth discussions with senior engineers and engineering managers from the Global Engineering team. These interviews will likely cover your technical expertise in packaging equipment, filling systems, automation, URS development, and sustainability principles. You may be asked to walk through specific projects from your portfolio.

• Project Case Study / Challenge: You might be presented with a hypothetical or real-world packaging design or optimization challenge. This could involve developing a URS, proposing a technical solution, or outlining a project execution plan, testing your problem-solving skills and strategic thinking.

• Leadership & Stakeholder Management Interview: This stage will assess your leadership style, ability to influence cross-functional teams, communication skills, and experience managing stakeholders at various levels, including external partners.

• Final Interview: A meeting with senior leadership (e.g., VP of Engineering) to discuss your fit with the company culture, long-term career aspirations, and strategic vision for packaging engineering at Flora Food Group.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Achievements: For each project, clearly state the problem, your role, the solution implemented, and the quantifiable results (e.g., cost savings achieved, efficiency improvements in %, waste reduction in tons, Capex budget adherence).

• Showcase Process: Highlight your systematic approach to design, URS development, vendor management, and project execution. Use diagrams, flowcharts, or brief narratives to explain your methodologies.

• Highlight Innovation & Sustainability: Dedicate specific examples or sections to projects where you introduced innovative technologies or significantly improved the sustainability profile of packaging operations.

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize projects that align with the core responsibilities of this role – global strategy, large Capex, filling technology, automation, and sustainability.

• Prepare a Concise Presentation: Be ready to present 2-3 key projects from your portfolio in detail, focusing on impact and lessons learned.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Business: Research Flora Food Group's product portfolio, market position, and any recent news or strategic initiatives related to sustainability or innovation.

• Review Key Technologies: Familiarize yourself with common packaging and filling technologies in the food industry, common automation solutions, and current trends in packaging sustainability (e.g., recyclable materials, reduced packaging weight, energy-efficient machinery).

• Practice URS Development: Be prepared to outline the key components of a URS for a packaging or filling line.

• Capex Project Framework: Refresh your knowledge of standard Capex project phases, risk management, and budget control principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to assess a broad range of competencies, from deep technical knowledge to strategic leadership and cross-cultural collaboration. A well-prepared, impactful portfolio is crucial for demonstrating practical experience and strategic thinking.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency in industry-standard CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Inventor) for reviewing and potentially contributing to equipment designs.

• Simulation & Analysis Tools: Experience with simulation software (e.g., Arena, FlexSim, specialized packaging analysis tools) for process modeling, optimization, and performance prediction.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with tools like Microsoft Project, Asana, Jira, or similar platforms for managing Capex projects, tracking timelines, resources, and budgets.

• 3D Modeling & Visualization: Ability to work with or interpret 3D models and visualizations for design reviews and stakeholder presentations.

Analytics & Reporting:

• OEE Tracking Systems: Experience with systems or methodologies for monitoring and analyzing Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), identifying root causes of downtime and inefficiency.

• Data Analysis Tools: Proficiency in tools like Microsoft Excel (advanced functions, PivotTables), Power BI, Tableau, or similar for data analysis, reporting, and dashboard creation.

• Statistical Analysis Software: Familiarity with statistical tools (e.g., Minitab) for process capability analysis, statistical process control (SPC), and root cause analysis.

CRM & Automation:

• ERP Systems: Understanding of how packaging and filling equipment integrates with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems (e.g., SAP) for inventory management, procurement, and production planning.

• PLC/SCADA Systems: Basic understanding of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems commonly used in industrial automation for controlling packaging and filling lines.

• Process Automation Platforms: Exposure to industrial automation platforms and concepts, including potential for digital twins or IoT integration in packaging lines.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not expected to be a hands-on programmer, a strong understanding of how these tools are used in engineering design, project management, and operational improvement is essential for defining requirements and collaborating effectively with technical teams and vendors.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Execution: A drive for high-quality engineering design and flawless project execution, ensuring that packaging and filling solutions meet stringent performance, safety, and regulatory requirements.

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: A commitment to staying at the forefront of packaging technology, actively seeking and implementing innovative solutions that enhance efficiency, sustainability, and product quality.

• Sustainability & Responsibility: A deep-seated commitment to environmental stewardship, focusing on reducing waste, conserving energy, and promoting circular economy principles in all packaging-related operations.

• Collaboration & Partnership: A belief in the power of cross-functional teamwork and strong partnerships with internal stakeholders and external suppliers to achieve shared objectives.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Reliance on data and analytical insights to inform strategic decisions, measure performance, and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

Collaboration Style:

• Global Alignment: A proactive approach to ensuring alignment and consistency in technical standards and strategies across all Flora Food Group locations, bridging geographical and cultural differences.

• Cross-Functional Integration: Working closely with R&D, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Procurement teams, fostering open communication and mutual understanding to achieve integrated solutions.

• Supplier Partnership: Building strong, collaborative relationships with OEMs and technology providers, viewing them as partners in innovation and problem-solving rather than just vendors.

• Mentorship and Knowledge Sharing: Willingness to share expertise, mentor junior engineers, and foster a culture of learning and development within the global engineering community.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at Flora Food Group, particularly within its Global Engineering team, is likely to be results-oriented, technically rigorous, and focused on long-term sustainability and innovation. Collaboration and a global mindset are key to success.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Global Standardization Complexity: Implementing and enforcing consistent technical standards across diverse manufacturing sites with varying existing infrastructure, local regulations, and operational cultures.

• Pace of Innovation: Keeping pace with rapid advancements in packaging materials, machinery, automation, and digital technologies while balancing the need for robust, reliable, and cost-effective solutions.

• Sustainability Integration: Translating ambitious sustainability goals (e.g., decarbonization, circularity) into practical, scalable, and economically viable engineering solutions for packaging and filling lines.

• Cross-Cultural Stakeholder Management: Navigating complex stakeholder relationships across different countries, languages, and business units to gain buy-in and drive project execution effectively.

• Capex Project Execution: Managing large-scale, high-value capital projects with tight deadlines, significant budgets, and the inherent risks associated with new technology deployment and international logistics.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Packaging Technologies: Access to training and development in areas like smart packaging, advanced barrier materials, aseptic filling, robotics, and Industry 4.0 applications in packaging.

• Sustainability Certifications: Opportunities to pursue certifications or specialized training in areas like Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), circular economy principles, or carbon footprint reduction for industrial processes.

• Leadership Development Programs: Participation in Flora Food Group's leadership development initiatives, focusing on strategic thinking, change management, and executive communication.

• Industry Conferences & Networks: Encouragement and support to attend leading packaging and food processing industry conferences (e.g., Interpack, Pack Expo, ProFood Tech) to stay abreast of trends and network with peers.

• Mentorship and Exposure: Opportunities to be mentored by senior leaders within Global Engineering and gain exposure to broader business strategy discussions.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges that are inherent to leading global engineering initiatives in a large FMCG company. Successfully navigating these challenges will provide immense opportunities for professional growth and development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to developing a global technical standard for packaging equipment, from initial concept to full implementation across multiple sites."

  • Preparation: Focus on your process for research, stakeholder consultation, drafting, validation, pilot testing, and phased rollout. Emphasize how you ensure buy-in and address local specificities.

• "Outline your strategy for identifying and evaluating new packaging automation technologies that could improve efficiency and sustainability for Flora Food Group."

  • Preparation: Discuss your technology scouting methodology, criteria for evaluation (ROI, TCO, scalability, sustainability impact), pilot project frameworks, and vendor assessment process.

• "How would you manage a €10 million Capex project for a new filling line, considering potential risks and the need to integrate sustainability features?"

  • Preparation: Detail your project management methodology, including risk assessment, vendor selection, budget control, timeline management, URS refinement, FAT/SAT planning, and how you incorporate sustainability metrics and considerations throughout the lifecycle.

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you understand about Flora Food Group's commitment to sustainability, and how would your role contribute to these goals within packaging and filling operations?"

  • Preparation: Research the company's sustainability reports. Link your expertise in energy efficiency, waste reduction, and material circularity directly to their stated objectives.

• "Describe a time you had to influence stakeholders across different countries or departments to adopt a new engineering standard or technology. What was your approach, and what was the outcome?"

  • Preparation: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to showcase your communication, negotiation, and change management skills. Highlight your ability to build consensus.

• "How do you ensure that packaging and filling equipment designs meet stringent food safety and GMP requirements, especially when working with international suppliers?"

  • Preparation: Discuss your knowledge of relevant regulations, your process for vendor qualification and audits, and how you incorporate these requirements into URS and technical specifications.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select Impactful Projects: Choose 2-3 projects that best demonstrate your experience in global strategy, large Capex management, innovation, sustainability, and technical leadership.

• Quantify Everything: For each project, clearly articulate the business problem, your specific actions, the technologies/processes involved, and the measurable results (e.g., cost savings, efficiency gains, waste reduction, ROI).

• Showcase Your Process: Explain your systematic approach to design, problem-solving, and project execution. Use visual aids where appropriate.

• Highlight Leadership & Collaboration: Emphasize your role in leading teams, managing stakeholders, and collaborating with internal departments and external partners.

• Connect to Flora Food Group: Conclude by explaining how your experience and approach align with Flora Food Group's needs and strategic objectives for packaging and filling engineering.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating not just technical competence but also strategic thinking, leadership capabilities, and a proactive approach to innovation and sustainability within a global operational context.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Flora Food Group careers page.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your experience in packaging engineering, filling systems, large-scale Capex project management (€5M+), automation, sustainability integration, and working within FMCG or Food & Beverage industries. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate your portfolio to showcase 2-3 key projects that exemplify your skills in technical design, global standardization, innovation, and project execution. Ensure each project includes quantifiable results and clearly outlines your role and methodology.

• Research Flora Food Group: Understand the company's product lines, market presence, sustainability initiatives, and any recent news. This will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare for behavioral questions using the STAR method and for technical/strategic questions by reviewing common challenges in packaging engineering and operations management. Practice articulating your thought process for problem-solving and project execution.

⚠️ 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.