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 and Netherlands)

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering Design & Operations Management

Date Posted: August 13, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the global strategy for packaging equipment design, filling technologies, and packaging innovation within the Global Engineering team.

• Drive the deployment of new packaging solutions, ensuring platforms meet future requirements for efficiency, sustainability, product flexibility, and performance.

• Shape technical standards and oversee the development of User Requirement Specifications (URS), scope definitions, and design standards for packaging and filling systems.

• Actively engage in technology scouting and the evaluation of new automation, digital, and equipment solutions to maintain Flora Food Group's position at the forefront of packaging innovation.

• Manage selected Capital Expenditure (Capex) projects from concept to commissioning, including procurement support, Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT), and site start-ups.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a senior technical leadership position with a strong emphasis on strategic global deployment and project execution within the packaging and filling engineering domain. It requires a blend of engineering design expertise, technology strategy, and project management capabilities, particularly within the Food & Beverage sector.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Define, develop, and deploy the global strategy for packaging equipment design, filling & packing technologies, and packaging innovation.

• Shape and enforce technical standards for packaging equipment, filling systems, and complete packing lines across Flora Food Group.

• Lead the development of URS documents, scope definitions, and design standards for packaging and filling equipment.

• Translate innovation and sustainability requirements into practical engineering specifications, ensuring global consistency, safety, quality, and performance.

• Drive technology scouting and evaluate new automation, digital, and equipment solutions for packaging and filling processes.

• Champion sustainability initiatives, including 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, Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) optimization, and debottlenecking related to packaging operations.

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

• Maintain awareness of industry best practices and emerging trends in packaging and filling technology.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on strategic global initiatives and hands-on project leadership, with a significant emphasis on driving innovation and sustainability within packaging engineering. The role requires strong cross-functional collaboration and the ability to influence across different business units and geographies.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

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

• Master’s degree considered an advantage. Experience:

• At least 10 years of experience in relevant engineering roles, specifically in packaging engineering, filling systems, or packaging technology.

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

• Proven experience in FMCG, Food & Beverage, or Dairy environments. Required Skills:

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

• Proficiency in developing URS documents, technical standards, and equipment specifications.

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

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

• Demonstrated success in delivering innovation or technology deployment projects in complex, international environments.

• 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.

• Fluent in English.

• Willingness to travel regularly (to support suppliers, FATs, and project execution). Preferred Skills:

• Additional European languages are considered a plus.

• Experience with specific packaging machinery controls and automation systems.

• Familiarity with digital transformation initiatives in manufacturing and packaging.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a robust engineering foundation coupled with extensive practical experience in project management and specific industry sectors. The need for strong soft skills, particularly in communication and stakeholder management, is crucial for success in a global, cross-functional role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 2-3 detailed case studies of significant Capex projects managed, ideally within packaging or filling lines, demonstrating scope, budget, timeline, and key outcomes.

• Highlight examples of developed URS documents, technical standards, or equipment specifications, detailing the process and impact on project success.

• Include examples of innovation deployment projects, illustrating how new technologies were evaluated, integrated, and scaled across different sites or regions.

• Demonstrate experience in sustainability integration into engineering designs, such as energy efficiency improvements, waste reduction initiatives, or circular economy solutions for packaging. Process Documentation:

• Document the lifecycle of a typical Capex project managed, from initial business case and feasibility studies through to commissioning and post-implementation review.

• Illustrate the process for developing and approving URS documents, including stakeholder input and validation steps.

• Outline the methodology for technology scouting and evaluation of new equipment or automation solutions, including risk assessment and ROI analysis.

• Provide examples of how global technical standards are developed, communicated, and implemented across different manufacturing sites.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio demonstrating successful end-to-end project management, technical specification development, innovation implementation, and sustainability integration is critical. Candidates should be prepared to articulate their processes and the quantifiable impact of their work.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated range for this senior engineering management role in Germany, considering the experience level (10+ years) and project scope (€5M+ Capex), would typically fall between €90,000 - €130,000 per annum.

• This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for Engineering Design Managers and Packaging Technology Leaders in the German Food & Beverage sector, factoring in the responsibilities for global strategy and large-scale project oversight. Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage.

• Pension scheme contributions.

• Paid time off (holidays and sick leave) in accordance with German labor laws.

• Opportunities for professional development and training, including industry conferences and certifications.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses.

• Travel allowances for business trips.

• Employee assistance programs. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours, typically 40 hours per week, in line with German regulations.

• Flexibility may be available, but the role requires on-site presence and regular travel for project execution and site support.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary is an estimate based on market data for senior engineering roles in Germany. Specific compensation will be determined by Flora Food Group based on the candidate's qualifications, experience, and the specific responsibilities of the role. Benefits are typical for a large, international organization in Germany.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Food & Beverage Manufacturing (specifically, Flora Food Group is known for its margarine and spreads products).

Company Size: Flora Food Group is a significant player in its market, likely employing several thousand individuals globally. Its operational footprint across multiple countries (Poland, Netherlands, Germany) suggests a substantial organization with established processes and a global outlook.

Founded: Flora Food Group has a history, with its origins tracing back decades, indicating a stable, established company with a strong market presence.

Team Structure:

• The role sits within the Global Engineering team, reporting to a senior engineering director or VP of Engineering.

• It involves close collaboration with R&D Packaging, Supply Chain, Manufacturing operations at various sites, and Procurement departments.

• The role requires leadership and coordination of cross-functional project teams and management of external suppliers and OEMs.

• Expect a matrixed reporting structure where project deliverables are paramount. Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making, especially concerning project feasibility, ROI, and performance optimization (OEE).

• Emphasis on standardized processes and technical specifications to ensure global consistency and quality.

• A strong focus on innovation and continuous improvement within packaging and filling technologies.

• Collaborative approach to problem-solving, leveraging expertise from R&D, manufacturing, and external partners.

• Commitment to sustainability and ESG principles integrated into engineering and operational strategies.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Flora Food Group operates in a competitive, fast-paced industry. The company culture likely values efficiency, innovation, and collaboration, with a strong emphasis on quality and sustainability, given its product category and global reach.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior-level, specialized engineering management role. It represents a significant step for an engineer moving into a strategic, global leadership position focused on a critical operational function – packaging and filling. It combines deep technical expertise with broad project management and strategic planning responsibilities.

Reporting Structure: The Packaging & Filling Engineering Design Manager will likely report to a Director or VP of Global Engineering or Manufacturing Technology. They will manage a portfolio of projects and potentially lead a small team of engineers or specialists focused on packaging and filling.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct and significant impact on Flora Food Group's operational efficiency, product quality, brand presentation, and sustainability targets. Effective packaging and filling systems are crucial for cost control, waste reduction, product integrity, and consumer appeal. Strategic decisions made here will affect capital investment, operational expenditures, and competitive positioning in the market.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Potential to become a subject matter expert for specific packaging technologies or sustainability initiatives within the company.

• Leadership: Progression to higher leadership roles within Global Engineering, such as Head of Packaging Engineering, Director of Manufacturing Technology, or VP of Engineering.

• Cross-Functional Moves: Opportunities to move into broader roles within Supply Chain, Manufacturing Operations, or R&D, leveraging a deep understanding of the production process.

• International Experience: Continued development in managing global projects and teams across different cultural and regulatory environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career advancement within a large, established food manufacturing company, providing opportunities for both technical specialization and broader leadership development. The global scope of the role is a significant asset for career growth.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based on-site, likely within an engineering department or a dedicated office space at one of Flora Food Group's major operational or headquarters locations in Kleve, Germany.

Office Location(s): Kleve, Germany is the primary location mentioned. However, the role's global nature means frequent travel to other Flora Food Group sites in Poland (Katowice) and the Netherlands (Wageningen), as well as to supplier facilities worldwide.

Workspace Context:

• The work environment will be a blend of office-based strategic planning, design reviews, and project management, alongside significant time spent on-site at manufacturing facilities and vendor workshops for FATs and commissioning.

• Expect a collaborative atmosphere with engineers, project managers, manufacturing personnel, and external partners.

• Access to relevant engineering software, design tools, and project management platforms will be standard.

• The environment demands a proactive approach to problem-solving and a high degree of autonomy, balanced with strong team collaboration. Work Schedule:

• Standard 40-hour work week, Monday to Friday.

• May require extended hours or weekend work during critical project phases, FATs, commissioning, or when providing urgent site support.

• Travel schedules will vary and need to be managed effectively alongside core responsibilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic, requiring adaptability and a willingness to engage in both strategic planning and hands-on site execution. The international travel component is substantial and should be factored into personal considerations.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or a recruiter will likely conduct an initial call to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A detailed discussion with the Hiring Manager (likely a Director or VP of Engineering) focusing on technical expertise, project management experience, and strategic thinking.

• Technical/Panel Interview: A session with key stakeholders from R&D, Manufacturing, and potentially other engineering leads to delve into specific technical challenges, problem-solving approaches, and collaboration style. This may involve a case study presentation.

• Portfolio Review: Candidates will be asked to present detailed case studies from their portfolio, showcasing their experience with Capex projects, URS development, and innovation deployment.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader (e.g., Head of Global Engineering) to discuss overall vision, strategic alignment, and final fit within the organization.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your solution, the actions taken, and the quantifiable results (e.g., cost savings, efficiency gains, waste reduction, improved product quality, project ROI).

• Focus on Strategy: Explain your role in defining the strategy for the project or technology implementation, not just the execution.

• Highlight Collaboration: Showcase how you effectively managed stakeholders, suppliers, and cross-functional teams.

• Showcase Problem-Solving: Be prepared to discuss complex challenges encountered and how you overcame them.

• Sustainability Integration: Clearly demonstrate how sustainability principles were incorporated into your design and project decisions.

Challenge Preparation:

• Case Study Presentation: Prepare 2-3 detailed case studies from your portfolio that best represent your experience in packaging engineering, Capex project management, and innovation. Structure them using a STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) or similar methodology.

• Technical Questions: Be ready to discuss common packaging equipment, filling technologies, GMP, food safety standards, automation principles, and sustainability best practices in the food industry.

• Strategic Thinking: Prepare to discuss how you would approach defining a global packaging technology roadmap, evaluating new automation solutions, or addressing sustainability challenges within Flora Food Group.

• Leadership & Stakeholder Management: Be ready to answer questions about how you manage teams, influence stakeholders, and resolve conflicts.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will be rigorous, testing both technical depth and leadership capabilities. A well-prepared, impactful portfolio presentation is crucial for demonstrating practical experience and strategic thinking.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency in 2D/3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Inventor) for design review and specification development.

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

• ERP Systems: Familiarity with Enterprise Resource Planning systems (e.g., SAP) for procurement, inventory, and financial tracking related to projects.

• Simulation/Modeling Tools: Potentially used for process flow, line balancing, or packaging material performance analysis.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Proficiency in Excel for data analysis, reporting, and basic financial modeling. Familiarity with BI tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau) for performance dashboards related to OEE and project KPIs.

• Statistical Software: May be beneficial for analyzing process data and ensuring quality parameters.

CRM & Automation:

• PLCs & SCADA Systems: Understanding of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems used in packaging machinery automation.

• Automation Platforms: Knowledge of common industrial automation platforms and protocols.

• Digitalization Tools: Familiarity with Industry 4.0 concepts and digital solutions for manufacturing and packaging operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tools are not listed, a strong understanding of typical engineering design, project management, and industrial automation software is expected. The ability to leverage data for decision-making and reporting is also a key requirement.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Efficiency & Optimization: A core value driving continuous improvement in packaging processes, reducing waste, and maximizing throughput (OEE).

• Innovation: Encouraging the exploration and adoption of new technologies and materials to enhance product performance, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness.

• Quality & Safety: Uncompromising commitment to product quality, food safety, and operational safety standards across all packaging and filling operations.

• Sustainability: Integrating environmental responsibility into design and operational decisions, focusing on resource conservation, reduced emissions, and circularity.

• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented approach where cross-functional input is valued, and shared goals are prioritized.

• Global Mindset: Embracing diverse perspectives and ensuring consistent application of standards and strategies across international operations.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Strong emphasis on working collaboratively with R&D, Supply Chain, Manufacturing, and Procurement to ensure holistic solutions.

• Supplier Partnerships: Building strong relationships with OEMs and technology partners for co-development and reliable equipment supply.

• Data-Driven Dialogue: Using data and performance metrics to inform discussions and drive consensus on technical and strategic decisions.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of best practices and lessons learned across different sites and teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture likely reflects the rigorous demands of the food manufacturing industry, emphasizing precision, safety, and efficiency, while also looking forward to innovation and sustainability.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Global Standardization: Implementing consistent packaging and filling standards across diverse manufacturing sites with varying existing infrastructure and local regulations.

• Pace of Innovation: Keeping up with rapidly evolving packaging materials, automation technologies, and sustainability demands in a competitive market.

• Capex Project Complexity: Managing large, complex, international Capex projects with multiple stakeholders, budgets, and timelines, mitigating risks of delays and cost overruns.

• Sustainability Integration: Translating ambitious sustainability goals (decarbonization, circularity) into practical, cost-effective engineering solutions for packaging and filling.

• Cross-Cultural Management: Effectively leading and influencing teams and stakeholders across different countries and cultures.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Packaging Technologies: Deepening expertise in emerging areas like smart packaging, advanced barrier materials, or novel filling techniques.

• Digital Manufacturing: Developing skills in implementing Industry 4.0 solutions, IoT, and data analytics for packaging line optimization.

• Sustainability Leadership: Becoming a recognized expert in sustainable packaging solutions and contributing to industry-wide initiatives.

• Global Project Management: Enhancing skills in managing international projects, navigating diverse regulatory landscapes, and leading global teams.

• Executive Leadership Training: Opportunities to develop strategic leadership capabilities for future senior roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges that require strong problem-solving, strategic thinking, and leadership skills. Successfully navigating these challenges will provide substantial opportunities for professional growth and development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "How would you approach developing a global packaging technology roadmap for Flora Food Group, considering our diverse product portfolio and manufacturing footprint?" (Preparation: Think about market trends, competitive landscape, internal capabilities, sustainability goals, and phased implementation.)

• "Describe your process for evaluating and selecting new automation or digital solutions for packaging lines. What criteria would you prioritize?" (Preparation: Focus on ROI, scalability, integration, vendor support, cybersecurity, and alignment with existing infrastructure.)

• "Imagine a scenario where a new sustainability requirement for packaging is proposed, but it significantly increases CAPEX. How would you balance cost, sustainability, and operational efficiency in your recommendation?" (Preparation: Emphasize data-driven analysis, life cycle costing, risk assessment, and stakeholder alignment.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you see as the biggest challenges and opportunities for packaging engineering in the Food & Beverage industry today, and how would you address them at Flora Food Group?" (Preparation: Research Flora Food Group's brands, market position, and any public statements on innovation or sustainability.)

• "How do you ensure buy-in and collaboration from diverse teams and stakeholders across different countries when implementing global engineering standards?" (Preparation: Focus on communication strategies, stakeholder mapping, change management principles, and building trust.)

• "Can you provide an example of a time you had to influence senior leadership or a resistant stakeholder to adopt a new engineering approach or technology?" (Preparation: Use the STAR method to demonstrate your influencing skills and strategic communication.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each selected case study, clearly outline the business problem, your specific role and responsibilities, the technical solutions implemented, the challenges faced, the collaborative efforts involved, and most importantly, the quantifiable results (e.g., % OEE improvement, € cost savings, % waste reduction, payback period).

• Visual Aids: Use clear, concise slides with relevant diagrams, photos, or charts. Avoid overwhelming text.

• Focus on Impact: Be prepared to articulate the business impact of your projects and how they contributed to Flora Food Group's strategic objectives (efficiency, sustainability, quality).

• Technical Depth & Strategic Vision: Be ready to discuss the technical details of your projects while also explaining the strategic rationale behind your decisions.

• Q&A Readiness: Anticipate questions about your methodology, decision-making process, and alternative approaches.

📝 Enhancement Note: Tailor your answers and portfolio examples to Flora Food Group's known industry (Food & Beverage) and their likely focus areas (efficiency, sustainability, quality). Demonstrating a strategic, data-driven, and collaborative approach will be key.

📌 Application Steps

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

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

• Portfolio Customization: Curate your portfolio to specifically highlight 2-3 of your most impactful Capex projects, URS development examples, and innovation deployments that are most relevant to the Food & Beverage industry and the responsibilities outlined. Quantify results wherever possible.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly details your experience with packaging engineering, filling systems, large-scale Capex project management, and cross-functional leadership. Use keywords from the job description (e.g., URS, FAT, OEE, GMP, Sustainability, FMCG).

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your case studies using a structured method (like STAR). Prepare answers to common interview questions related to engineering strategy, project management, stakeholder management, and innovation.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Flora Food Group, their brands, their market position, and any publicly available information on their engineering, sustainability, or innovation initiatives. Understand their operational context.

⚠️ 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.