Packaging & Filling Engineering Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Packaging & Filling Engineering Design Manager Company: Flora Food Group Location: Wageningen, Netherlands (Also open to Poland - Katowice, Germany - Kleve, Pratau) Job Type: Full-Time Category: Engineering & Operations Management Date Posted: May 13, 2026 Experience Level: 10+ years

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the global strategy for packaging equipment design, filling, and packing technologies to drive innovation and efficiency across Flora Food Group.
• Shape technical standards and deploy new packaging solutions, ensuring future-readiness in efficiency, sustainability, and product flexibility.
• Oversee the development of User Requirement Specifications (URS), technical standards, and equipment specifications, ensuring global consistency, safety, quality, and performance.
• Drive technology scouting and innovation deployment, focusing on automation, digitalization, and sustainable packaging systems (energy efficiency, waste reduction, circularity).

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a senior technical leadership position within Global Engineering, implying a significant strategic and hands-on involvement in defining and implementing packaging technology roadmaps. The focus on "packaging innovation" and "filling & packing technologies" suggests a critical function for GTM strategy and product lifecycle management, even though it's primarily an engineering role.

📈 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 all Flora Food Group operations.
• Lead the development of User Requirement Specifications (URS), scope definitions, and design standards for new packaging solutions.
• Translate innovation and sustainability requirements into practical engineering specifications and ensure their consistent implementation.
• Drive technology scouting and evaluate new automation, digital, and equipment solutions for packaging and filling processes.
• Champion sustainability initiatives within packaging systems, focusing on energy efficiency, waste reduction, decarbonisation, and circularity.
• Lead selected Capital Expenditure (Capex) projects from feasibility and concept design through to execution, procurement support, Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), commissioning, and start-up.
• Provide expert support to manufacturing sites for troubleshooting, capacity improvements, Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) optimization, and debottlenecking related to packaging equipment.
• Collaborate closely with R&D Packaging, Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Procurement, and external technology partners to define and deliver the packaging technology roadmap.
• Ensure packaging and filling platforms meet future requirements for efficiency, sustainability, product flexibility, and overall performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a blend of strategic planning, technical design, project management, and operational support. The emphasis on Capex project leadership (€5M+) and OEE optimization positions this role as crucial for driving operational efficiency and capital deployment in manufacturing environments.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Process Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or Packaging Engineering.
• Master’s degree in a related engineering field is considered an advantage.

Experience:

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in relevant engineering roles, with a strong focus on packaging engineering, filling systems, or packaging technology.
• Proven track record in managing mid- to large-scale Capex projects, with a specific emphasis on those exceeding €5 million in value.
• Extensive experience working with suppliers, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), and cross-functional teams in complex, international environments.
• Demonstrated success in delivering innovation or technology deployment projects.
• Experience in FMCG, Food & Beverage, or Dairy manufacturing environments is essential.

Required Skills:

• Deep technical expertise in packaging equipment design, filling systems, and packaging technology.
• Proficiency in developing User Requirement Specifications (URS) and technical equipment specifications.
• Strong understanding of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and food safety standards relevant to packaging lines.
• Expertise in automation and digital solutions for packaging and filling processes.
• Proven ability in stakeholder management, with strong communication and influencing skills across multiple levels and functions.
• Experience in managing Capex projects from inception to completion, including FAT and commissioning.
• Proficiency in English (fluent written and spoken).
• Willingness to travel regularly (supporting suppliers, FATs, project execution).

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with OEE optimization and debottlenecking manufacturing processes.
• Familiarity with sustainability and ESG requirements, and their translation into equipment and system design.
• Additional European languages are considered a plus.
• Technology scouting and innovation management experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a Bachelor's degree in specific engineering disciplines and 10+ years of experience, with a strong Capex project management background, signifies a senior-level role. The emphasis on FMCG/Food & Beverage context and GMP/food safety highlights the specialized nature of this engineering function within the food industry.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate successful management of mid- to large-scale Capex projects, ideally exceeding €5 million, showcasing the full project lifecycle from concept to commissioning.
• Provide examples of developed User Requirement Specifications (URS) or similar technical documentation for packaging and filling equipment, highlighting clarity, comprehensiveness, and alignment with business needs.
• Showcase case studies of technology deployment or innovation projects in packaging or filling, illustrating the process, challenges, and quantifiable results achieved (e.g., efficiency gains, sustainability improvements).
• Present evidence of defining or implementing technical standards for packaging equipment and processes, demonstrating an understanding of global consistency, safety, and performance metrics.

Process Documentation:

• Illustrate experience in defining and documenting technical standards for packaging equipment and filling systems, ensuring a clear methodology for their development and rollout.
• Detail your approach to translating innovation and sustainability requirements into actionable engineering specifications and practical system designs.
• Showcase your process for technology scouting and evaluating new automation, digital, and equipment solutions, including criteria for assessment and selection.
• Provide examples of your troubleshooting and optimization processes for packaging lines, demonstrating how you address capacity improvements and OEE challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role of this seniority and technical scope, a portfolio demonstrating tangible results in Capex project management, technical specification development (URS), and process/technology implementation is critical. The ability to articulate complex processes clearly through documentation and case studies will be highly valued.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on the role's seniority (10+ years experience), technical leadership, international scope, and significant Capex project management responsibilities, the estimated salary range for a Packaging & Filling Engineering Design Manager in Wageningen, Netherlands, is approximately €90,000 - €130,000 per year. This estimate is derived from industry benchmarks for similar engineering management roles in the Food & Beverage sector within the Netherlands, considering the high level of technical expertise and project oversight required.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance package, including options for dental and vision coverage.
• Generous paid time off (vacation days, public holidays) and potential for flexible working arrangements where feasible for project support.
• Retirement savings plan or pension scheme contribution.
• Opportunities for professional development, including training, certifications, and attendance at industry conferences.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses and long-term incentive plans.
• Relocation assistance may be available for candidates moving to the Netherlands.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are typically 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday. However, given the project management and international travel components, flexibility may be required to meet project deadlines and global team collaboration needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on research for senior engineering management roles in the Netherlands, factoring in the specific industry (Food & Beverage) and the extensive responsibilities outlined. Benefits are standard for such roles in European multinational corporations.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Food & Beverage Manufacturing / Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG). Flora Food Group operates within a dynamic and competitive sector where efficiency, innovation, and sustainability are key drivers for success. Company Size: While not explicitly stated, the mention of "global strategy," multiple international locations (Poland, Netherlands, Germany), and significant Capex projects suggests a large, established multinational corporation, likely employing several thousand individuals globally. Founded: Information regarding the founding date is not provided. However, the structured job posting and explicit career page suggest a mature organization with established HR and engineering functions.

Team Structure:

• This role sits within the Global Engineering team, indicating a centralized function that sets standards and provides expertise across various business units or manufacturing sites.
• The reporting structure will likely be to a Director or VP of Global Engineering, with direct leadership of packaging engineering initiatives and potentially a small team of specialists or project engineers.
• Close collaboration is expected with R&D Packaging, Supply Chain, Manufacturing Operations, Procurement, and site-level engineering teams, requiring strong cross-functional alignment.

Methodology:

• The role emphasizes a data-driven approach to defining technical standards and driving innovation, likely involving rigorous analysis of performance metrics (OEE, efficiency, sustainability KPIs).
• Workflow planning and optimization strategies will be central, particularly in the context of new equipment deployment and line debottlenecking.
• Automation and efficiency practices are core to the role, focusing on leveraging technology to improve manufacturing processes and reduce operational costs.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context suggests a structured, process-oriented environment common in large food manufacturers. The Global Engineering team's role is to ensure standardization and leverage best practices across diverse operational sites.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior leadership role within the engineering and operations domain. It represents a significant step beyond individual contributor or team lead roles, requiring strategic vision, extensive technical depth, and proven project management capabilities. It’s positioned to influence global technology direction. Reporting Structure: The role reports into the Global Engineering function, likely to a Director or VP level. This ensures alignment with overall corporate engineering strategy and provides a platform for significant cross-functional engagement and influence across manufacturing and supply chain operations. Operations Impact: The impact of this role is substantial. By defining and deploying global packaging and filling strategies, it directly influences manufacturing efficiency, product quality, sustainability performance, and the successful launch of new products. Effective Capex project execution and OEE optimization contribute directly to cost savings and increased production output, impacting the company's bottom line and market competitiveness.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in cutting-edge packaging technologies, automation, and sustainable engineering solutions, potentially becoming a recognized subject matter expert within the industry.
• Leadership Advancement: Progress to higher management roles within Global Engineering, such as Director of Engineering, VP of Operations, or Head of Manufacturing Technology, overseeing broader engineering disciplines or entire operational functions.
• Strategic Influence: Transition into more strategic roles focused on technology roadmapping, innovation strategy, or supply chain optimization at a corporate level.
• Cross-Functional Mobility: Opportunities to move into senior roles within R&D, Supply Chain Management, or Operations leadership positions, leveraging deep manufacturing and technology understanding.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a critical stepping stone for experienced engineers looking to move into senior leadership. The growth trajectory involves expanding scope, increasing strategic responsibility, and potentially moving into broader operational or executive management roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This role is designated as "On-site," indicating a primary presence within a Flora Food Group facility. Given the global nature of the role and the mention of multiple locations, it could be based at a major R&D center, a corporate engineering hub, or a key manufacturing site. Office Location(s): The primary advertised location is Wageningen, Netherlands. However, the posting explicitly mentions flexibility for candidates in Poland (Katowice) and Germany (Kleve, Pratau), suggesting that while Wageningen is preferred, other key European sites may be considered for the right candidate.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely be a professional office environment within a manufacturing or R&D campus, facilitating close interaction with R&D, manufacturing, and supply chain teams.
• Access to advanced engineering tools, simulation software, and potentially pilot plant facilities for testing packaging solutions will be available to support design and innovation efforts.
• Opportunities for frequent collaboration with global teams, suppliers, and site personnel will be integral to the role, requiring excellent communication and virtual collaboration tools.

Work Schedule: The typical schedule is 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday. However, project timelines, international travel for FATs, supplier visits, and site support may necessitate occasional work outside standard hours. The nature of engineering management often involves periods of intense activity during project execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement, coupled with the mention of multiple European locations, suggests a hybrid approach where the primary base is fixed, but travel is a significant component. The workspace is expected to be collaborative and equipped with necessary engineering resources.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or a recruiter will review applications to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.
• Hiring Manager Interview: A detailed discussion with the hiring manager (likely Director/VP of Global Engineering) to assess technical depth, leadership style, project management experience, and strategic thinking related to packaging technology. Be prepared to discuss specific Capex projects and your role in them.
• Technical/Panel Interview: Interviews with key stakeholders from R&D, Manufacturing, and potentially other engineering disciplines. This stage will focus on detailed technical knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of GMP, food safety, and sustainability principles in packaging.
• Portfolio Review/Presentation: A dedicated session where you will present selected projects from your portfolio, showcasing your approach to URS development, technical specification, project execution, and measurable outcomes. This is a critical stage to demonstrate your capabilities.
• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior executive or HR leader to discuss overall fit, career aspirations, and finalize terms.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Select High-Impact Projects: Choose 2-3 significant Capex projects (ideally >€5M) and 1-2 innovation/technology deployment examples that best demonstrate your skills in packaging engineering, URS development, and problem-solving.
• Quantify Results: For each project, clearly articulate the business objectives, your specific contributions, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the quantifiable results (e.g., cost savings, efficiency improvements, sustainability metrics, ROI).
• Structure Your Presentation: Use a clear narrative structure: Problem/Objective -> Your Approach/Solution -> Execution Details -> Outcome/Results. Visual aids (diagrams, photos, charts) are highly recommended.
• Highlight Process & Standards: Explicitly show examples of URS documents, technical specifications, or technical standards you developed and how they ensured quality, safety, and performance.
• Address Sustainability: If possible, include a project that demonstrates your understanding and implementation of sustainability principles in packaging systems.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss hypothetical scenarios related to packaging line design, troubleshooting common issues (e.g., low OEE, quality defects), or proposing innovative solutions for sustainability challenges.
• Prepare to articulate your methodology for technology scouting and evaluating new equipment suppliers.
• Practice explaining complex technical concepts and project outcomes clearly and concisely, as if presenting to a mixed audience of engineers and business leaders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily emphasize practical experience, quantifiable results, and the ability to articulate complex technical and project management aspects. A well-prepared portfolio is essential for demonstrating competence.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency in 3D CAD (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Inventor) for equipment design and modification.
• Simulation Software: Experience with simulation tools for packaging line performance, material flow, or automation logic (e.g., Arena, AnyLogic, Rockwell simulation tools).
• Project Management Software: Familiarity with tools like Microsoft Project, Asana, or Jira for managing Capex projects, tracking timelines, and resource allocation.

Analytics & Reporting:

• OEE Tracking Software: Experience with systems that monitor and report on Overall Equipment Effectiveness, identifying key performance indicators and bottlenecks.
• Data Analysis Tools: Proficiency in Excel for data manipulation and analysis, and potentially BI tools like Power BI or Tableau for visualizing performance metrics and trends.
• ERP Systems: Understanding of how packaging equipment specifications and procurement integrate with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems (e.g., SAP) for inventory and financial management.

CRM & Automation:

• PLCs & SCADA Systems: Understanding of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems for packaging line control and monitoring.
• Automation Platforms: Familiarity with automation technologies from major vendors (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell Automation, ABB) relevant to packaging and filling machinery.
• Document Management Systems: Experience with systems for managing technical documentation, URS, design specifications, and FAT protocols.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific software is not listed, the role implies strong technical skills in CAD, project management, data analysis, and a deep understanding of automation and control systems prevalent in modern manufacturing environments.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: A drive to seek out and implement new technologies and processes that enhance efficiency, sustainability, and product quality in packaging.
• Excellence & Accountability: Commitment to high standards in engineering design, project execution, and operational support, taking ownership of outcomes.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: A proactive approach to working with diverse global teams, fostering open communication and shared problem-solving.
• Sustainability & Responsibility: A strong focus on environmental stewardship and ethical practices, translating ESG goals into tangible engineering solutions.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: Utilizing data analytics and performance metrics to inform design choices, operational improvements, and strategic planning.

Collaboration Style:

• Expect a collaborative environment where cross-functional teams work together to achieve common goals. This role will necessitate partnering closely with R&D, manufacturing sites, supply chain, and procurement.
• A culture of constructive feedback and continuous learning is likely, encouraging the sharing of best practices and lessons learned across global operations.
• The ability to influence and align stakeholders with differing priorities will be crucial for successful project delivery and strategy implementation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture likely emphasizes a blend of technical rigor, forward-thinking innovation, and a strong sense of collective responsibility towards operational excellence and sustainability targets.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Global Standardization: Implementing consistent technical standards and best practices across diverse manufacturing sites with varying levels of existing infrastructure and operational maturity.
• Technology Integration: Successfully integrating new automation and digital technologies into legacy packaging lines while ensuring seamless operation and data flow.
• Sustainability Demands: Meeting ambitious sustainability targets (e.g., decarbonization, circularity) through equipment and process design, balancing environmental goals with operational efficiency and cost.
• Supplier Management: Navigating complex relationships with numerous equipment suppliers and OEMs to ensure optimal performance, quality, and timely delivery of packaging solutions.
• Pace of Innovation: Keeping abreast of rapid advancements in packaging technology and automation to ensure Flora Food Group remains competitive and at the forefront of the industry.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Packaging Technologies: Access to training and exposure to emerging technologies in areas like smart packaging, advanced materials, robotics, and AI-driven process optimization.
• Sustainability Engineering: Opportunities to specialize in sustainable design principles, circular economy models, and decarbonization strategies within manufacturing processes.
• Leadership & Project Management: Formal training and practical experience in advanced project management methodologies and leadership development programs to hone strategic and people management skills.
• Industry Exposure: Participation in key industry conferences, trade shows, and technical forums to network, learn from peers, and stay updated on global trends.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a senior engineering role in a global corporation, focusing on managing complexity, driving change, and staying ahead of technological curves. The growth opportunities are geared towards deepening expertise and advancing into higher leadership positions.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to developing a global technical standard for packaging equipment. What key factors would you consider, and how would you ensure buy-in across different regions?" (Focus on process, stakeholder engagement, and metrics).
• "Walk me through a significant Capex project you managed from concept to commissioning. What were the biggest challenges, how did you overcome them, and what was the final ROI?" (Prepare a detailed case study, quantifying results).
• "How do you balance the demands of innovation and sustainability with the need for operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness in packaging equipment design?" (Discuss trade-offs, prioritization, and long-term vs. short-term impacts).
• "Imagine a scenario where a key packaging line is consistently underperforming in terms of OEE. What steps would you take to diagnose and resolve the issue?" (Demonstrate analytical and problem-solving methodology).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you most about Flora Food Group and this specific role within our Global Engineering team?" (Research the company's products, mission, and recent news).
• "How do you foster collaboration and ensure alignment when working with diverse, international teams, including R&D, Manufacturing, and Procurement?" (Provide examples of cross-functional collaboration).
• "How do you stay current with the latest advancements in packaging technology, automation, and sustainability practices?" (Discuss continuous learning habits, sources of information).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: Clearly define the problem, your proposed solution, the execution steps, and the measurable impact for each case study.
• Highlight Your Role: Be specific about your individual contributions and leadership responsibilities within the projects.
• Emphasize Process & Data: Showcase your URS development process, technical specification details, and how you used data to drive decisions and measure success.
• Visual Aids are Key: Use diagrams, photos, flowcharts, and graphs to illustrate complex concepts and present data effectively.
• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about technical choices, project risks, supplier management, and financial aspects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on articulating technical expertise through concrete examples, demonstrating strategic thinking, and showcasing leadership capabilities in project management and cross-functional collaboration.

📌 Application Steps

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

• Submit your application through the Flora Food Group careers portal via the provided link.
• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight experience in packaging engineering, filling systems, URS development, large-scale Capex project management (€5M+), and FMCG/Food & Beverage environments. Quantify achievements with specific metrics wherever possible.
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate 2-3 key projects that best showcase your expertise in managing Capex projects, developing technical specifications (URS), and driving innovation or operational improvements in packaging. Ensure each case study clearly outlines objectives, your role, challenges, solutions, and quantifiable results.
• Practice Your Presentation: Rehearse your portfolio presentation, focusing on clear articulation, concise explanations, and effective use of visual aids. Be ready to answer in-depth questions about your projects.
• Research Flora Food Group: Understand their product lines, market position, sustainability initiatives, and any recent news or strategic directions that might relate to packaging and manufacturing operations.

⚠️ 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.