Packaging & Filling Engineering Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Packaging & Filling Engineering Design Manager Company: Flora Food Group Location: Pratau, Germany (with opportunities in Poland and 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 & packing technologies, and packaging innovation.
• Shape technical standards and drive the deployment of new packaging solutions across international operations.
• Manage the engineering design lifecycle, URS documentation, and Capex project oversight for packaging systems.
• Champion sustainability initiatives, including energy efficiency, waste reduction, and circularity in packaging.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior technical leader within the Global Engineering team, focusing on strategic definition and deployment of packaging technology. The core function involves translating innovation and sustainability goals into practical engineering specifications and ensuring global operational consistency.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Define, develop, and deploy the global strategy for packaging equipment design, filling & packing technologies, and packaging innovation.
• Establish and maintain global technical standards for packaging equipment, filling systems, and complete packing lines.
• Lead the development of User Requirement Specifications (URS), scope definitions, and design standards for packaging machinery.
• Ensure packaging and filling platforms meet future requirements in efficiency, sustainability, product flexibility, and performance.
• Drive innovation by scouting, evaluating, and deploying new automation, digital, and equipment solutions.
• Champion sustainability goals, focusing on energy efficiency, waste reduction, decarbonisation, and circularity in packaging systems.
• Lead selected Capex projects from feasibility and concept design through execution, procurement support, FAT, commissioning, and start-up.
• Provide technical support to manufacturing sites for troubleshooting, capacity improvements, OEE optimisation, and debottlenecking related to packaging.
• Collaborate closely with R&D Packaging, Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Procurement, and external technology partners to define and deliver the packaging technology roadmap.
• Translate innovation and sustainability requirements into practical engineering specifications, ensuring consistency, safety, quality, and performance across global operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of strategic leadership, technical design oversight, project management for significant capital investments, and hands-on support for manufacturing operations, all within the specialized domain of packaging and filling.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Industrial, Process, Mechatronics, or Packaging Engineering.
• Master’s degree considered an advantage.

Experience:

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in relevant engineering roles within FMCG, Food & Beverage, or Dairy environments.
• Proven track record in managing mid- to large-scale Capex projects exceeding €5 million.
• Demonstrated experience in developing URS documents, technical standards, and equipment specifications.
• Experience in technology scouting and innovation deployment.
• Experience working with suppliers, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), and cross-functional teams.
• Experience delivering innovation or technology deployment projects in complex, international environments.

Required Skills:

• Deep technical expertise in packaging equipment, materials, GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices), and food safety standards.
• Strong understanding of automation principles and digital solutions in packaging.
• Proficiency in developing URS documents, technical standards, and equipment specifications.
• Solid knowledge of sustainability and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) requirements and their translation into equipment and system design.
• Excellent communication, influencing, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to work independently while aligning global teams.
• Fluent in English.

Preferred Skills:

• Additional European languages.
• Experience in OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness) optimisation and debottlenecking.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a Bachelor's degree in specific engineering disciplines, coupled with a Master's being advantageous, sets a strong academic foundation. The 10+ years of experience, particularly with large Capex projects and specific documentations like URS, indicates a senior-level role demanding practical, hands-on expertise in a demanding industry context.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate successful management of mid- to large-scale Capex projects (€5M+), showcasing project scope, budget adherence, timelines, and outcomes.
• Provide examples of technical standards and equipment specifications developed for packaging lines or filling systems, highlighting innovation and efficiency improvements.
• Showcase case studies of technology scouting or innovation deployment projects, detailing the process of identifying, evaluating, and implementing new solutions.
• Present documentation related to URS development for packaging or filling equipment, illustrating a clear understanding of user needs and technical translation.
• Include examples of sustainability integration into equipment design, such as energy efficiency improvements, waste reduction measures, or circularity initiatives.

Process Documentation:

• Detailed documentation of process workflow design and optimization for packaging line setup or modification.
• Evidence of implementation and automation methodologies applied to packaging and filling systems.
• Records of measurement and performance analysis, particularly concerning OEE, capacity improvements, and debottlenecking efforts.
• Examples of cross-functional collaboration documentation, illustrating engagement with R&D, Supply Chain, Manufacturing, and Procurement.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio will be critical for this role, emphasizing tangible results in project management, technical specification development, innovation implementation, and sustainability integration within packaging and filling engineering. The focus on URS, technical standards, and Capex project success is paramount.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Given the senior level, extensive experience required (€5M+ Capex management), and location in Germany, a competitive salary range for a Packaging & Filling Engineering Design Manager would typically fall between €90,000 - €130,000 annually, depending on specific experience, qualifications, and the exact location within Germany.
• This range is based on industry benchmarks for similar senior engineering management roles in the FMCG/Food & Beverage sector in Western Europe, considering the cost of living and typical compensation structures for roles with significant capital project responsibility.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage, including options for dental and vision.
• Generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation days, public holidays, and sick leave.
• Company pension scheme or retirement savings plan with employer contributions.
• Performance-based bonuses and potential for long-term incentive plans.
• Opportunities for professional development, including training, conferences, and certifications.
• Travel allowances and per diems for business travel to other Flora Food Group locations and supplier sites.
• Potential for relocation assistance if applicable.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours, typically around 40 hours per week, with flexibility often available.
• Expectation of occasional extended hours or weekend work during critical project phases, commissioning, or urgent operational support needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on typical compensation for senior engineering management roles in Germany's FMCG sector, factoring in the specified experience and project scale. Benefits are standard for such positions in large European corporations.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Food & Beverage (FMCG) - Flora Food Group operates within a dynamic and competitive consumer goods market, where innovation, efficiency, and sustainability are key drivers for success. This means a fast-paced environment with a focus on delivering quality products consistently and cost-effectively. Company Size: Flora Food Group is likely a large, established organization given the scope of the role (global strategy, €5M+ Capex projects) and multiple international locations. This implies a structured corporate environment with established processes, but also opportunities for significant impact due to scale. Founded: While not explicitly stated, the company's presence across multiple countries and its structured approach suggest a long-standing history, likely with a legacy of established manufacturing and engineering practices.

Team Structure:

• This role is part of the Global Engineering team, indicating a centralized function responsible for setting standards and strategies across all regions.
• The Manager will likely report to a Director or VP of Global Engineering or Operations.
• Close collaboration is expected with R&D Packaging, Supply Chain, Manufacturing Operations, Procurement, and site-level engineering teams across Poland, the Netherlands, and Germany.

Methodology:

• A data-driven approach to defining technical standards and evaluating new technologies, focusing on measurable improvements in efficiency, sustainability, and performance.
• Robust project management methodologies for Capex initiatives, ensuring rigorous planning, execution, and closure.
• Emphasis on collaborative problem-solving and knowledge sharing to drive continuous improvement in packaging and filling processes.
• Proactive technology scouting to identify and integrate cutting-edge solutions that provide a competitive advantage.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is expected to be professional, globally-minded, and driven by engineering excellence and innovation within the food and beverage sector. Collaboration across diverse teams and regions will be a critical success factor.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior-level Engineering Management position, acting as a technical authority and strategic leader for packaging and filling technologies on a global scale. It requires deep technical expertise combined with strong leadership and project management capabilities. Reporting Structure: The role likely reports into a senior leadership position within Global Engineering or Operations, such as a Director or VP. The incumbent will manage a team or lead cross-functional project teams, influencing decisions at both corporate and site levels. Operations Impact: The role has a direct and significant impact on Flora Food Group's operational efficiency, cost of goods sold (COGS), product quality, brand perception (through packaging innovation), and sustainability targets. Successful implementation of new technologies and standards can lead to substantial improvements in manufacturing performance and competitive positioning.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to move into higher executive roles within Global Engineering, Operations, or Supply Chain, managing larger teams and broader functional areas.
• Specialization & Expertise: Opportunity to become a recognized subject matter expert in advanced packaging technologies, sustainable packaging solutions, or automation within the food industry.
• Global Project Leadership: Lead larger, more complex global engineering programs, potentially expanding into other areas of manufacturing technology or capital investment.
• Cross-Functional Mobility: Possibility to transition into roles within R&D, Supply Chain Strategy, or Manufacturing Excellence, leveraging a deep understanding of packaging's role in the broader value chain.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a critical stepping stone for individuals aiming for senior leadership in manufacturing operations and engineering within the FMCG sector. The global scope and responsibility for innovation and large capital projects offer significant career development potential.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: While the role has global responsibilities and involves significant travel, the primary work environment for the Pratau, Germany location is likely a corporate office setting. This would include standard office amenities and collaborative workspaces. Office Location(s): Pratau, Germany is a key location, but the role also has connectivity to operations in Katowice, Poland, and Wageningen, Netherlands. This implies a need for comfort in international collaboration and potential for hybrid work arrangements if based in one of these locations, though the primary description points to on-site presence.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will support collaboration with global teams, likely utilizing video conferencing, shared project management platforms, and digital collaboration tools.
• Access to relevant engineering software, design tools, and data analysis platforms will be provided.
• Opportunities for interaction with engineering colleagues, R&D, supply chain specialists, and manufacturing teams to foster a culture of shared learning and problem-solving.
• Regular travel to manufacturing sites, supplier facilities, and potentially R&D centers will be a significant part of the work environment.

Work Schedule:

• Standard 40-hour work week is the baseline.
• Flexibility is expected to accommodate global time zones for meetings and urgent operational needs.
• The nature of project management and operational support may require occasional adjustments to the schedule, including evenings or weekends during critical project phases or issue resolution.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment blends corporate office settings with extensive travel to operational and supplier sites, emphasizing a dynamic and hands-on approach to engineering leadership.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or Talent Acquisition will review applications for basic qualifications and alignment with the role's core requirements.
• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the Hiring Manager (likely Director/VP of Global Engineering) to assess technical depth, leadership style, project management experience, and strategic thinking. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of past Capex projects, technical standard development, and innovation initiatives.
• Technical/Panel Interview: A session with key stakeholders from R&D, Manufacturing, or other engineering disciplines. This interview may include technical challenges or case studies related to packaging design, filling optimization, or sustainability integration. Portfolio review is highly likely here.
• Cultural Fit/Final Interview: A conversation to assess alignment with Flora Food Group's values, collaboration style, and overall fit within the global engineering team.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure for Impact: Organize your portfolio to clearly showcase your experience with packaging and filling technologies, Capex project management (€5M+), URS development, and sustainability initiatives.
• Quantify Achievements: For each project, highlight specific metrics: cost savings, efficiency gains (OEE improvements), reduction in waste, speed improvements, successful innovation deployments, and ROI achieved.
• Showcase Technical Depth: Include examples of technical specifications, URS documents (redacted for confidentiality), design standards, and problem-solving approaches.
• Highlight Collaboration: Demonstrate how you worked with cross-functional teams, suppliers, and OEMs. Use case studies that show your ability to influence and manage stakeholders.
• Sustainability Focus: Dedicate a section or clearly mark projects that demonstrate your expertise in sustainable packaging solutions and their implementation.
• Conciseness and Clarity: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, easy to navigate, and presents information concisely. Tailor the presentation to highlight aspects most relevant to this specific role.

Challenge Preparation:

• Case Study: Be prepared for a case study focusing on optimizing a packaging line, selecting new filling technology, or integrating a sustainable packaging solution. Focus on your structured approach to problem-solving, data analysis, stakeholder engagement, and recommendation justification.
• Technical Questions: Expect questions on GMP, food safety, specific packaging materials, automation principles, and common challenges in FMCG packaging.
• Project Management: Prepare to discuss your approach to managing large Capex projects, including risk assessment, procurement strategies, and commissioning phases.
• Sustainability: Be ready to discuss current trends in sustainable packaging and how they can be practically implemented in a large-scale food manufacturing environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily weigh technical expertise, project management capability for large investments, and strategic thinking concerning innovation and sustainability. A well-prepared portfolio is essential for demonstrating practical experience and impact.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency in industry-standard CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Inventor) for reviewing and potentially contributing to machine designs.
• Project Management Software: Experience with tools like Microsoft Project, Asana, Jira, or similar for managing Capex projects, tracking timelines, and resource allocation.
• Data Analysis & Visualization Tools: Proficiency in Excel (advanced functions, pivot tables), potentially BI tools like Tableau, Power BI, or QlikView for analyzing performance data (OEE, yield, waste) and creating reports.
• ERP Systems: Familiarity with Enterprise Resource Planning systems (e.g., SAP) for understanding procurement processes, BOM management, and production planning interfaces.

Analytics & Reporting:

• OEE Tracking Systems: Experience with systems or methodologies for monitoring and improving Overall Equipment Effectiveness.
• Performance Dashboards: Ability to interpret and contribute to dashboards that track key performance indicators (KPIs) for packaging lines and filling operations.
• Statistical Analysis Tools: Basic understanding of statistical methods for process capability analysis and quality control.

CRM & Automation:

• Automation Platforms: Familiarity with PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) concepts and SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems relevant to packaging machinery.
• Digitalization Tools: Awareness of digital solutions for manufacturing, such as IoT (Internet of Things) for equipment monitoring, predictive maintenance, and data integration.
• PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) Systems: Understanding of how packaging designs and specifications are managed through PLM systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tool names are not provided, the role demands a strong command of engineering design software, project management platforms, data analysis tools, and an understanding of industrial automation and manufacturing execution systems relevant to packaging and filling lines.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Engineering Excellence: A commitment to high technical standards, robust design principles, and continuous improvement in all aspects of packaging and filling technology.
• Innovation & Forward-Thinking: A proactive approach to identifying and implementing new technologies that enhance efficiency, sustainability, and product quality.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: A strong emphasis on working effectively across diverse global teams, fostering open communication and shared problem-solving.
• Accountability & Results: A dedication to delivering on project commitments, achieving performance targets, and driving tangible improvements in operational efficiency and sustainability.
• Safety & Compliance: Adherence to the highest standards of GMP, food safety, and operational safety in all engineering designs and implementations.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expectation to actively engage with R&D, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Procurement to ensure holistic solutions that meet diverse business needs.
• Global Alignment: A need to balance global standards with local operational realities, fostering buy-in and effective implementation across different sites and cultures.
• Supplier Partnerships: Building strong, collaborative relationships with OEMs and technology providers to drive innovation and ensure quality equipment delivery.
• Data-Driven Dialogue: Utilizing data and metrics to inform discussions, justify recommendations, and measure the success of implemented solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture likely values technical rigor, a proactive approach to challenges, and a strong sense of shared responsibility for global operational success. Effective collaboration across international boundaries and functions will be key.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Global Standardization vs. Local Needs: Balancing the need for uniform global technical standards with the specific requirements and constraints of diverse international manufacturing sites.
• Pace of Innovation: Keeping abreast of rapid advancements in packaging materials, automation, and digital technologies while ensuring practical and cost-effective implementation within a large corporation.
• Sustainability Mandates: Translating ambitious sustainability goals (decarbonisation, circularity) into achievable and scalable engineering solutions for packaging and filling systems.
• Capex Project Execution: Successfully managing large, complex capital projects across multiple geographies, ensuring on-time, on-budget delivery with minimal disruption to ongoing operations.
• Cross-Cultural Communication: Effectively communicating technical requirements and strategies across different languages, cultures, and time zones.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Packaging Technologies: Deepen expertise in cutting-edge packaging materials, smart packaging, and advanced filling techniques.
• Digital Manufacturing & Industry 4.0: Gain practical experience in implementing digital solutions, IoT, and data analytics for packaging line optimization.
• Sustainable Engineering Practices: Become a leader in integrating circular economy principles and decarbonisation strategies into industrial equipment design.
• Global Project Leadership: Develop advanced skills in managing large-scale international capital projects, including contract negotiation and risk management.
• Leadership Development Programs: Participate in company-sponsored leadership training to enhance strategic planning, team management, and executive communication skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant opportunities for professional growth by tackling complex engineering and strategic challenges within a global manufacturing context, particularly in the evolving areas of sustainability and digital transformation in packaging.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to developing global technical standards for packaging equipment. How do you balance consistency with site-specific needs?" (Focus on structured methodology, stakeholder engagement, pilot programs).
• "Walk us through a significant Capex project you managed for packaging or filling equipment, from conception to commissioning. What were the key challenges and how did you overcome them? What was the ROI?" (Prepare a detailed case study emphasizing your role, technical decisions, challenges, and quantifiable results).
• "How do you stay current with emerging technologies in packaging, automation, and sustainability, and how would you evaluate their potential adoption at Flora Food Group?" (Discuss tech scouting processes, ROI analysis, pilot testing, risk assessment).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you specifically about Flora Food Group and this role? How do you see your expertise contributing to our sustainability goals?" (Research Flora Food Group's recent initiatives, sustainability reports, and market position. Align your skills with their stated objectives).
• "Describe a time you had to influence stakeholders with different priorities to adopt a new engineering standard or technology. How did you manage the situation?" (Focus on communication, data-driven advocacy, and finding common ground).
• "How would you approach a situation where a manufacturing site is resistant to adopting a new global standard for packaging equipment?" (Discuss change management strategies, building consensus, and demonstrating benefits).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Executive Summary: Begin with a high-level overview of your most impactful projects, emphasizing your experience with large Capex, global strategy, and sustainability.
• Deep Dive Case Studies: Select 2-3 key projects that showcase your expertise in packaging design, filling technology, URS development, and project management. For each:
  • Clearly define the problem/objective.
  • Detail your specific role and actions.
  • Explain the technical solutions implemented.
  • Present quantifiable results (cost savings, efficiency, sustainability impact).
  • Discuss challenges and lessons learned.
• Thematic Sections: Consider dedicating sections to "Capex Project Leadership," "Technical Standards & Innovation," and "Sustainability Integration" to align with the role's core requirements.
• Visuals: Use diagrams, charts, and (confidentiality permitting) photos of equipment or line layouts to illustrate your points effectively.
• Concise Delivery: Be prepared to present your portfolio within a set timeframe, highlighting the most relevant achievements for this specific role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should heavily focus on articulating your experience with large capital projects, your strategic approach to packaging innovation and sustainability, and your ability to lead and influence across diverse global teams.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the application link provided on the Flora Food Group careers page.
• Portfolio Customization: Review your professional portfolio and select case studies that best demonstrate your experience in packaging equipment design, filling systems, large-scale Capex project management (€5M+), URS documentation, and sustainability integration. Tailor your presentation to highlight achievements relevant to FMCG or Food & Beverage industries.
• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your 10+ years of experience, focusing on keywords such as "Packaging Engineering," "Filling Systems," "Capex Project Management," "Technical Standards," "URS," "GMP," "Food Safety," "Automation," and "Sustainability." Quantify your achievements with specific metrics.
• Interview Preparation: Anticipate technical questions on packaging, filling, and manufacturing processes. Prepare detailed, STAR-method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) responses for behavioral questions related to leadership, stakeholder management, and problem-solving. Practice presenting your portfolio concisely.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research Flora Food Group's mission, values, recent news, product lines, and sustainability initiatives. Understand their position in the global Food & Beverage market and any public statements on innovation or operational efficiency.

⚠️ 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.