Packaging & Filling Engineering Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Packaging & Filling Engineering Design Manager

Company: Flora Food Group

Location: Wageningen, Netherlands (with potential for Poland or Germany)

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering & Operations Management (Focus on Packaging & Filling Technology)

Date Posted: 2026-08-13

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the global strategy and deployment of packaging equipment design, filling, and packing technologies across Flora Food Group.

• Drive innovation in packaging solutions, ensuring alignment with future requirements for efficiency, sustainability, product flexibility, and performance.

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

• Oversee the development of User Requirement Specifications (URS), scope definitions, and equipment design standards.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior technical leadership position within the Global Engineering team, requiring a strategic mindset and the ability to influence global operations. The focus on "packaging innovation" and "technology strategy" indicates a proactive approach to future-proofing the company's packaging capabilities.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

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

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

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

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

• Drive technology scouting and innovation deployment, identifying and evaluating new automation, digital, and equipment solutions.

• Support the manufacturing sites with troubleshooting, capacity improvements, OEE optimisation, and debottlenecking related to packaging operations.

• Lead selected Capex projects from feasibility and concept design through execution, procurement support, FAT, commissioning, and start-up.

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

• Ensure packaging and filling platforms are fit for future requirements, focusing on efficiency, sustainability, product flexibility, and performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of strategic planning, technical leadership, project management, and hands-on operational support, indicating a comprehensive scope for a senior engineering manager. The emphasis on "Capex projects above €5 million" underscores the significant financial and project management responsibility.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

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

• Master’s degree is considered an advantage. Experience:

• At least 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, specifically those exceeding €5 million.

• Experience in FMCG, Food & Beverage, or Dairy environments is essential. Required Skills:

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

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

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

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

• Demonstrated ability to deliver 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.

• Fluency in English; additional European languages are considered a plus.

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

• Experience with specific packaging machinery for food products (e.g., form-fill-seal, filling machines, capping machines, case erectors, palletizers).

• Knowledge of digital technologies in manufacturing, such as IoT, data analytics for OEE improvement, and smart factory concepts.

• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing principles and their application to packaging operations.

• Experience in technology scouting and establishing partnerships with innovative suppliers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for 10+ years of experience and managing large Capex projects positions this as a senior-level role. The emphasis on FMCG/Food & Beverage experience is critical, as is the need for proficiency in GMP and food safety, which are paramount in this industry. The preference for additional European languages suggests a multinational operational context.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrable experience in defining and managing User Requirement Specifications (URS) for complex packaging and filling equipment.

• Case studies showcasing successful implementation of new packaging technologies or equipment upgrades, highlighting process improvements and ROI.

• Examples of technical standards or design guidelines developed for packaging equipment to ensure global consistency and performance.

• Documentation of involvement in Capex project lifecycles, from concept development and feasibility studies to commissioning and handover. Process Documentation:

• Evidence of developing and implementing standard operating procedures (SOPs) for packaging equipment operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

• Workflow designs that illustrate process optimization for filling and packing lines, including efficiency gains and waste reduction.

• Documentation of safety protocols and food safety compliance measures integrated into packaging processes and equipment design.

• Examples of data analysis and reporting related to packaging line performance (e.g., OEE, throughput, waste metrics) and how insights led to improvements.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role of this seniority and technical focus, a portfolio demonstrating practical application of engineering principles, project management skills, and process optimization in packaging and filling is crucial. The emphasis should be on tangible results and the ability to articulate complex technical solutions.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated range of €90,000 - €130,000 annually, depending on experience and location within the specified countries (Poland, Netherlands, Germany).

• This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for senior engineering management roles with extensive project oversight in the Food & Beverage sector in Western and Central Europe. Factors like cost of living in Wageningen versus Katowice or Kleve/Pratau would influence the precise offer. Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage.

• Generous paid time off (vacation, holidays).

• Retirement savings plan with company contributions.

• Opportunities for professional development, training, and certifications.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses and long-term incentives.

• Relocation assistance may be available for candidates moving to Wageningen.

• Access to company-provided resources for sustainability initiatives and innovation projects. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours, typically 40 hours per week, with flexibility expected due to project demands and international collaboration.

• Occasional overtime may be required during critical project phases, FATs, or commissioning activities.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the senior nature of the role, the requirement for international travel, and the specified locations in the Netherlands, Germany, and Poland, a competitive salary reflecting significant experience and responsibility is expected. The provided range is a professional estimate based on regional market data for similar roles in FMCG engineering management.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Food & Beverage (specifically, Flora Food Group is known for its dairy and plant-based products).

Company Size: Flora Food Group is a significant player in the food industry, likely falling into the large enterprise category, with multiple international locations and a substantial workforce. This implies a structured corporate environment with established processes and a global reach.

Founded: While specific founding dates are not provided, Flora Food Group is a well-established entity, suggesting a history of innovation and adaptation within the food sector.

Team Structure:

• The role sits within the Global Engineering team, indicating a centralized function responsible for setting standards and overseeing major engineering initiatives across all manufacturing sites.

• Direct collaboration will occur with R&D Packaging, Supply Chain, Manufacturing operations at various sites, and Procurement.

• Leadership of selected Capex projects suggests direct management or significant influence over project teams, potentially including external consultants and contractors.

• The team likely fosters a culture of technical excellence, data-driven decision-making, and cross-functional collaboration to achieve ambitious business objectives. Methodology:

• Emphasis on data-driven decision-making for process optimization and performance improvement (e.g., OEE analysis).

• Structured project management methodologies for Capex initiatives, including feasibility studies, URS development, design reviews, and rigorous FAT/commissioning processes.

• A proactive approach to technology scouting and innovation, integrating new solutions that enhance efficiency, sustainability, and product quality.

• Adherence to global engineering standards, GMP, and food safety regulations is fundamental.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on food and beverage, particularly dairy and plant-based products, means a strong emphasis on food safety, quality control, and efficient, high-volume production. The global nature of the role suggests a need for cultural awareness and adaptability.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior-level Engineering Design Manager role, positioned as a technical leader with global responsibility. It signifies a significant step up from project engineering or site-level management, requiring strategic vision and the ability to influence corporate-level decisions regarding packaging technology.

Reporting Structure: The role reports into the Global Engineering team, likely under a Director or VP of Engineering. It will involve close collaboration with site-level engineering managers and plant operations leadership, as well as R&D and Supply Chain functions.

Operations Impact: The manager's work directly impacts operational efficiency, cost of goods sold (through optimized packaging and reduced waste), product quality and integrity, and the company's sustainability and ESG targets. Successful deployment of new technologies can provide a significant competitive advantage in product presentation, shelf life, and market responsiveness.

Growth Opportunities:

• Progression to Director-level roles within Global Engineering or Operations.

• Opportunities to lead larger, more complex global engineering programs or R&D initiatives.

• Specialization in emerging areas like sustainable packaging materials, advanced automation, or digital manufacturing for packaging.

• Potential to move into broader operational leadership roles within specific business units or regions.

• Mentorship opportunities for junior engineers and project managers.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career advancement within a large, established food group. The global scope and responsibility for major capital projects provide excellent experience for future leadership positions.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based on-site, with primary locations in Wageningen, Netherlands; Katowice, Poland; or Kleve/Pratau, Germany. This suggests a corporate or R&D campus environment, potentially with access to pilot facilities or manufacturing labs.

Office Location(s):

• Wageningen, Netherlands: Known for its strong connection to agriculture, food science, and innovation.

• Katowice, Poland: A major industrial and business hub.

• Kleve/Pratau, Germany: Located in industrial regions of Germany. Workspace Context:

• A collaborative environment where interaction with R&D, manufacturing, supply chain, and procurement teams is frequent.

• Access to engineering software, design tools, and potentially advanced simulation or testing equipment.

• Opportunities to engage with external technology partners, suppliers, and consultants.

• Travel will be a significant component, involving site visits, supplier FATs, and project meetings.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is expected, but the dynamic nature of global project management and manufacturing support may require flexibility. This includes potential for early mornings, late evenings, or occasional weekend work during critical project phases or to accommodate international time zones.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement and multiple location options suggest a need for adaptability and willingness to travel. The collaborative workspace implies a team-oriented approach to problem-solving and innovation.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or Recruiter call to assess basic qualifications, interest, and cultural fit.

• Hiring Manager Interview: In-depth discussion with the hiring manager focusing on technical expertise, project management experience, leadership style, and strategic thinking related to packaging and filling technologies.

• Technical Assessment/Case Study: Candidates may be asked to present a case study from their portfolio demonstrating a complex packaging project, problem-solving approach, or technology implementation. This could involve a prepared presentation or an on-the-spot problem-solving exercise.

• Cross-functional Team Interviews: Interviews with key stakeholders from R&D, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and potentially Procurement to assess collaboration skills, understanding of business needs, and ability to influence diverse teams.

• Final Round: Potentially a discussion with senior leadership (e.g., VP of Engineering or Operations) to evaluate overall fit and strategic alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 2-3 of your most impactful projects that best showcase your experience in packaging engineering, filling systems, Capex management, and innovation.

• Quantify Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your solution, your specific role, and the quantifiable results (e.g., % cost reduction, % OEE improvement, tonnes of CO2 reduced, % waste reduction, project budget adherence, timeline performance).

• Showcase Process: Detail your approach to URS development, technical specification writing, supplier selection, FAT management, and commissioning.

• Highlight Collaboration: Be prepared to discuss how you worked with cross-functional teams, managed stakeholder expectations, and navigated complex organizational structures.

• Sustainability Focus: Explicitly detail how sustainability considerations were integrated into your designs and project decisions.

Challenge Preparation:

• Problem-Solving: Be ready to discuss hypothetical challenges related to packaging line efficiency, sustainability targets, or new product introductions. Focus on your systematic approach to diagnosing issues and proposing solutions.

• Strategic Thinking: Prepare to discuss your vision for the future of packaging technology in the food industry and how you would approach developing and implementing a global strategy.

• Leadership & Influence: Anticipate questions about how you lead teams, influence senior stakeholders, and drive change in a global organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely to be rigorous, focusing on both technical depth and strategic leadership capabilities. A well-prepared, data-driven portfolio presentation will be key to demonstrating value.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

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

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

• Simulation Software: Familiarity with simulation tools for process flow, OEE analysis, or packaging line performance (e.g., Arena, FlexSim, or specialized packaging line simulators).

• PLM/PDM Systems: Experience with Product Lifecycle Management or Product Data Management systems for managing technical documentation.

Analytics & Reporting:

• OEE Tracking Software: Experience with systems that monitor and report on Overall Equipment Effectiveness.

• Data Analysis Tools: Proficiency in Excel, Tableau, Power BI, or similar for analyzing performance data, identifying trends, and creating reports.

• ERP Systems: Familiarity with Enterprise Resource Planning systems (e.g., SAP) for procurement and project cost tracking.

CRM & Automation:

• Automation Control Systems: Understanding of PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) principles and SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems relevant to packaging machinery.

• Digitalization Tools: Awareness of IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things) platforms and digital twin concepts for optimizing packaging operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role requires a strong technical foundation, including familiarity with design software and project management tools. A deeper understanding of automation control systems and data analytics for performance optimization will be highly advantageous.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: A drive to constantly seek out and implement new technologies and process enhancements to stay ahead in the packaging field.

• Sustainability & Responsibility: A commitment to developing and deploying environmentally conscious packaging solutions that align with global ESG goals.

• Technical Excellence & Quality: A dedication to rigorous engineering standards, ensuring the highest levels of safety, quality, and performance in all packaging operations.

• Collaboration & Partnership: A belief in working effectively across departments and with external partners to achieve shared objectives.

• Efficiency & Performance: A focus on optimizing processes and equipment to maximize productivity, minimize waste, and achieve operational excellence.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Encourages close working relationships with R&D, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Procurement to ensure holistic solutions.

• Data-Driven Dialogue: Decisions and discussions are grounded in data and performance metrics, fostering objective problem-solving.

• Global Alignment: A structured approach to communication and decision-making that ensures global standards are met while allowing for site-specific adaptations where necessary.

• Proactive Engagement: Encourages team members to identify potential issues or opportunities early and to proactively engage stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company values are likely to reflect a blend of technical expertise, a forward-thinking approach to sustainability and innovation, and a strong emphasis on teamwork and data-driven decision-making, characteristic of a large, global food corporation.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Global Standardization vs. Local Needs: Balancing the need for consistent global standards with the unique requirements and capabilities of different manufacturing sites.

• Pace of Innovation: Keeping abreast of rapidly evolving packaging technologies, materials, and sustainability regulations to maintain a competitive edge.

• Capex Project Complexity: Managing large, multi-million Euro projects involving multiple stakeholders, suppliers, and international logistics, often under tight deadlines.

• Sustainability Integration: Translating ambitious sustainability goals into practical, cost-effective engineering solutions for packaging equipment.

• Digital Transformation: Driving the adoption of advanced automation and digital technologies within traditional manufacturing environments.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Packaging Technology Training: Access to specialized courses and certifications in cutting-edge packaging machinery, materials science, and automation.

• Leadership Development Programs: Opportunities to enhance strategic leadership, project management, and stakeholder influence skills.

• Industry Conferences & Forums: Participation in leading packaging and food industry events to network and stay updated on trends.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Opportunities to gain deeper insights into R&D, manufacturing operations, and supply chain strategies.

• Mentorship: Potential to be mentored by senior leaders within Flora Food Group or to mentor emerging talent in engineering.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges that offer substantial growth opportunities. Overcoming these challenges will require strong technical acumen, strategic thinking, and excellent interpersonal skills, all of which contribute to significant career development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "How would you approach developing a global packaging technology roadmap for a company like Flora Food Group, considering sustainability and efficiency goals?" (Focus on your methodology for research, stakeholder engagement, and prioritization.)

• "Describe a time you had to influence senior management or multiple stakeholders to adopt a new packaging technology or process change. What was your strategy, and what was the outcome?" (Highlight your communication, persuasion, and data-driven approach.)

• "Imagine a key packaging line at one of our sites is consistently underperforming in terms of OEE. How would you diagnose the root cause, and what steps would you take to implement improvements?" (Demonstrate your problem-solving framework, analytical skills, and understanding of packaging operations.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Flora Food Group, and what specifically attracts you to this role within our company?" (Research their products, recent news, sustainability initiatives, and align your interest with their mission.)

• "How do you foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within an engineering team, especially when dealing with established processes?" (Discuss your leadership style, methods for encouraging new ideas, and managing change.)

• "How do you ensure that engineering solutions align with broader business objectives, such as market growth, cost reduction, and brand reputation?" (Showcase your understanding of how engineering impacts the bottom line and overall business strategy.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Narrative Arc: Structure your case studies with a clear beginning (problem/objective), middle (your actions/solutions), and end (results/impact).

• Visual Aids: Use clear, concise slides with relevant diagrams, charts, and images. Avoid text-heavy slides.

• Quantify Everything: Emphasize metrics and ROI. Be prepared to defend your numbers and explain your calculations.

• Focus on "Your" Role: Clearly articulate your specific contributions, responsibilities, and decision-making within each project.

• Engage the Audience: Practice your delivery to be confident, clear, and engaging. Be prepared to answer detailed technical and strategic questions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Expect interview questions that probe both your technical depth in packaging and filling engineering and your strategic leadership capabilities. Your ability to articulate complex technical concepts in a business context and demonstrate a clear ROI for your initiatives will be critical.

📌 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.

• Tailor your Resume/LinkedIn Profile: Highlight your experience in packaging engineering, filling systems, large-scale Capex project management (especially >€5M), FMCG/Food & Beverage industry, GMP, and sustainability initiatives. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 key projects that best demonstrate your technical expertise, project leadership, and impact. Quantify achievements and be ready to present them clearly.

• Research Flora Food Group: Understand their product lines, market position, sustainability commitments, and recent news. This will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.

• Practice Interview Questions: Rehearse answers to common behavioral, technical, and strategic questions, focusing on using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) and incorporating your portfolio examples.

⚠️ 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.