Senior Expert Engineering, Packaging Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Expert Engineering, Packaging Design Manager

Company: Novartis

Location: Schaftenau, Austria

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Engineering / Operations Management (Packaging Technology)

Date Posted: April 29, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage packaging design projects for drug-device combination products, focusing on secondary and tertiary packaging solutions.

• Drive the definition and implementation of packaging technology roadmaps, material standards, and process best practices within a pharmaceutical/medical device context.

• Ensure the development of state-of-the-art technical design solutions for commercial product packaging, leveraging internal and external resources effectively.

• Contribute to regulatory submissions by preparing function-related documentation and providing expert input for health authority questions.

• Foster innovation and sustainability in packaging design, while also disseminating knowledge and contributing to publications and patents within the broader organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Senior Expert, implying a high level of technical proficiency and leadership in packaging engineering within the pharmaceutical industry. The focus on drug-device combination products and hybrid work arrangement indicates a modern, specialized operational role.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead packaging design projects for defined technology platforms, ensuring successful outcomes through effective collaboration with cross-functional teams (e.g., R&D, Manufacturing, Quality Assurance, Regulatory Affairs).

• Support the strategic definition of secondary and tertiary packaging technologies, including the development of labelling strategies and long-term roadmaps.

• Establish and deploy robust standards for packaging materials, formats, and associated manufacturing processes to ensure consistency and quality.

• Oversee the technical design of commercial secondary and tertiary packaging and labeling, managing internal engineering teams and external suppliers/partners to achieve project objectives.

• Support broader development activities, including continuous technology landscaping to identify emerging trends and manage change control processes for packaging-related modifications.

• Actively disseminate knowledge and raise awareness of packaging technology advancements and best practices across the wider Novartis organization, contributing to publications, presentations, and patent filings.

• Drive the preparation of comprehensive, function-specific documentation required for the registration of medical devices and combination products, and provide expert support in responding to health authority inquiries.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical leadership, strategic planning, and regulatory compliance crucial for operations in the pharmaceutical and medical device sectors. The emphasis on "state-of-the-art technical design solutions" and "sustainable and innovative packaging solutions" points to a forward-thinking operations leader.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• A minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in packaging engineering, with a significant portion spent within the pharmaceutical or medical device industry.

Required Skills:

• Deep understanding of drug-device combination products and their associated manufacturing and packaging processes.

• Expertise in secondary and tertiary packaging design principles, material selection, and performance evaluation.

• Strong knowledge of labelling strategies and regulatory requirements for pharmaceutical and medical device packaging.

• Proficiency in managing technical projects, including scope definition, resource allocation, and timeline management.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively, demonstrating excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with parenteral product packaging.

• Familiarity with sustainability initiatives in packaging design.

• Knowledge of change control procedures and documentation for regulated industries.

• German language proficiency is beneficial.

• Experience with technology landscaping and innovation scouting in packaging.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a technical degree and specific experience in the pharmaceutical/medical device sector, particularly with combination products, indicates a highly specialized operations role. The preference for German language skills aligns with the Austrian location.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrable examples of packaging design projects, showcasing the entire lifecycle from concept ideation to successful commercial launch.

• Case studies detailing the implementation of secondary and tertiary packaging solutions for pharmaceutical or medical device products, highlighting problem-solving approaches.

• Documentation illustrating the development and application of packaging material standards and process optimizations.

• Evidence of contributions to regulatory documentation or successful interaction with health authorities regarding packaging aspects.

Process Documentation:

• Ability to document packaging development workflows, from initial requirements gathering through to design validation and transfer to manufacturing.

• Experience in creating and maintaining standard operating procedures (SOPs) or work instructions related to packaging design and material handling.

• Documentation of packaging performance testing, stability studies, and risk assessments associated with new packaging solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior Expert role, a portfolio is critical. It should not only showcase completed projects but also the candidate's systematic approach to packaging development, material science application, and regulatory compliance within the operations framework.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• The minimum salary for this position in Austria, as per the collective bargaining agreement, is €65,605.54 per year (full-time basis).

• 📝 Enhancement Note: Based on the Senior Expert level, 5-10 years of experience in a specialized field like pharmaceutical packaging engineering, and the Austrian market, the actual offered salary is expected to be significantly higher than the minimum. A competitive range for this role in Schaftenau, Austria, would likely fall between €85,000 and €110,000 annually, depending on the candidate's specific qualifications, experience, and demonstrated impact. This estimate considers local cost of living, industry benchmarks for specialized engineering roles in multinational pharmaceutical companies, and the company's stated aim to be competitive.

Benefits:

• Attractive incentive program.

• Modern company pension scheme.

• Childcare facilities.

• Extensive learning and development opportunities.

• Access to worldwide career possibilities within the Novartis group.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours, with a hybrid work arrangement.

• 📝 Enhancement Note: While specific daily hours are not detailed, a full-time role in Austria typically involves around 38-40 hours per week. The hybrid nature suggests flexibility, allowing for a balance between on-site collaboration and remote work, which is advantageous for operations professionals managing complex projects.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Pharmaceutical & Healthcare. Novartis is a global leader in the pharmaceutical industry, focused on discovering, developing, manufacturing, and marketing innovative medicines.

Company Size: Large (Novartis is a multinational corporation with tens of thousands of employees globally). This size offers extensive resources, global reach, and diverse career opportunities.

Founded: 1996 (formed from the merger of Ciba-Geigy and Sandoz). This long history provides a foundation of expertise and stability in the pharmaceutical sector.

Team Structure:

• The role is within Novartis Packaging Technology, a specialized department focused on packaging engineering solutions.

• Likely operates within a matrix structure, collaborating closely with R&D, Manufacturing, Quality, Regulatory Affairs, and Project Management teams.

Methodology:

• Emphasis on data-driven decision-making, scientific rigor, and adherence to stringent regulatory standards (e.g., GMP, ISO).

• Focus on innovation, efficiency, and sustainability in packaging development processes.

• A culture that encourages knowledge sharing, continuous learning, and cross-functional collaboration to solve complex challenges.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Novartis's strong presence in the pharmaceutical industry implies a highly regulated and quality-focused operational environment. The "hybrid" work arrangement suggests a modern approach to employee work-life balance within a large, established organization.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Expert Engineering / Managerial. This level signifies deep technical expertise, significant project leadership, and the ability to influence strategic direction within packaging technology. It's a critical role for ensuring product integrity and market readiness.

Reporting Structure: Typically reports to a Director or Senior Manager within Packaging Technology or a related Engineering/Operations leadership role. Will likely manage project workstreams and potentially direct reports or external resources.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct impact on product quality, patient safety, supply chain efficiency, and regulatory compliance. Successful packaging design is crucial for market access, brand perception, and operational cost-effectiveness.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement to broader managerial roles overseeing larger engineering teams or multiple technology platforms.

• Specialization into advanced areas of packaging science, materials, or regulatory strategy.

• Opportunities to lead global packaging initiatives or contribute to strategic planning for new product development pipelines.

• Potential to move into related operational leadership roles within manufacturing, supply chain, or quality assurance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior Expert" title suggests a career path that values deep technical mastery. Growth can be both vertical (management) and horizontal (specialization or broader scope), offering significant long-term career development within a global life sciences company.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid. This indicates a blend of on-site work at the Schaftenau facility and remote work from home.

Office Location(s): Schaftenau, Austria. Located in the Tyrol region, offering a balance between a professional work environment and access to natural beauty.

Workspace Context:

• On-site work likely involves collaboration in engineering labs, meeting rooms, and potentially pilot manufacturing areas related to packaging.

• Access to advanced packaging design software, testing equipment, and potentially 3D printing or prototyping facilities.

• Opportunities to interact with a diverse team of engineers, scientists, and project managers.

• Remote work requires self-discipline and effective communication tools to maintain project momentum and team connectivity.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time, with the flexibility afforded by a hybrid arrangement. The nature of packaging development projects may require occasional flexibility to meet critical deadlines or address urgent technical issues.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model at a European pharmaceutical site suggests a structured approach to flexibility, balancing the need for hands-on work and collaboration with individual autonomy.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and cover letter, focusing on alignment with essential requirements, particularly experience in pharmaceutical/medical device packaging and drug-device combination products.

• Technical Interview: In-depth discussion of packaging design principles, material science, regulatory knowledge, and project management experience. Expect scenario-based questions related to complex packaging challenges.

• Portfolio Review: Presentation and discussion of selected projects from the candidate's portfolio. This is crucial for demonstrating practical application of skills and impact.

• Behavioral/Cultural Fit Interview: Assessment of communication skills, teamwork, problem-solving approach, and alignment with Novartis's values and culture.

• Final Interview: Likely with senior leadership to discuss strategic fit and long-term potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Select 2-3 key projects that best represent your experience in pharmaceutical/medical device packaging, especially those involving drug-device combinations.

• For each project, clearly articulate the challenge, your role, the solutions implemented (design, materials, processes), the results achieved (quantified impact where possible – e.g., cost savings, improved performance, regulatory approval), and lessons learned.

• Be prepared to discuss the technical details, trade-offs considered, and how you navigated any challenges or regulatory hurdles.

• Showcase a range of skills: technical design, material science, project management, regulatory awareness, and innovation.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready for hypothetical case studies related to designing secondary packaging for a novel drug-device combination product or troubleshooting a packaging failure.

• Practice articulating your thought process for problem-solving, emphasizing a data-driven and risk-aware approach.

• Prepare to discuss how you would ensure sustainability and cost-effectiveness in your packaging solutions.

• Consider how you would present complex technical information to non-technical stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is essential for this role. Candidates should focus on demonstrating not just technical competence but also strategic thinking, project leadership, and the ability to drive impactful operational outcomes in a regulated environment.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA, Creo) for packaging design and modeling.

• Packaging Design Software: Specialized software for packaging design, simulation, and performance analysis.

• Project Management Tools: Tools like MS Project, Asana, Jira, or similar for managing project timelines, tasks, and resources.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Familiarity with tools for analyzing performance data, material properties, and market trends (e.g., Excel, Minitab, potentially BI tools like Tableau or Power BI for reporting).

• Statistical Software: Experience with statistical analysis tools (e.g., Minitab) for design of experiments (DOE) and validation studies.

CRM & Automation:

• PLM Systems: Experience with Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems for managing product data and documentation.

• ERP Systems: Familiarity with Enterprise Resource Planning systems (e.g., SAP) for understanding material sourcing, inventory, and manufacturing integration.

• Collaboration Platforms: Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for team communication and project collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tools aren't listed, candidates should highlight experience with industry-standard CAD/CAM software for engineering design and any specialized packaging simulation or analysis tools. Proficiency in project management and data analysis tools is also key for operations roles.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation: Encouraging creative solutions for packaging challenges, driving sustainability, and exploring novel materials and technologies.

• Quality & Compliance: Upholding the highest standards in design, materials, and processes to ensure patient safety and meet rigorous regulatory requirements.

• Collaboration: Working effectively across diverse teams and functions to achieve common project goals.

• Efficiency: Optimizing packaging designs and processes for cost-effectiveness, manufacturability, and supply chain performance.

• Accountability: Taking ownership of projects and delivering on commitments with integrity.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional teamwork is paramount, requiring strong communication and negotiation skills to align diverse stakeholder needs (e.g., R&D, Manufacturing, Marketing, Regulatory).

• A culture that values constructive feedback and continuous improvement, encouraging open dialogue about process challenges and potential solutions.

• Knowledge sharing is encouraged through team meetings, presentations, and internal documentation to build collective expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: Novartis's emphasis on innovation, quality, and collaboration is typical for leading pharmaceutical companies. Operations professionals are expected to embody these values in their daily work, particularly in a role that bridges technical design with commercial reality.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Innovation with Regulation: Developing cutting-edge packaging solutions while strictly adhering to pharmaceutical and medical device regulations.

• Global Supply Chain Complexity: Ensuring consistent quality and availability of packaging materials across diverse global supply chains.

• Sustainability Demands: Meeting increasing pressure to develop environmentally friendly packaging solutions without compromising product integrity or safety.

• Rapid Technological Advancements: Staying abreast of new materials, manufacturing techniques, and digital technologies impacting packaging.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Access to internal Novartis training programs and workshops covering advanced engineering, project management, and leadership skills.

• Opportunities to attend industry conferences, trade shows, and specialized courses related to packaging technology, materials science, and regulatory affairs.

• Potential for mentorship from senior leaders within Novartis's engineering and operations functions.

• Encouragement to pursue relevant professional certifications.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers the chance to tackle complex, high-stakes challenges that are critical to patient well-being and business success, making it a rewarding environment for ambitious operations professionals.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex packaging design project you led from concept to commercialization. What were the key challenges, and how did you overcome them?" (Focus on process, problem-solving, and impact.)

• "How do you approach balancing innovative packaging design with stringent regulatory requirements in the pharmaceutical industry?" (Highlight your understanding of compliance and risk management.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Novartis and this specific role in Packaging Technology?" (Research Novartis's mission, recent innovations, and connect it to your expertise.)

• "How do you foster collaboration with cross-functional teams, especially when there are competing priorities?" (Provide examples of your communication and negotiation skills.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure your presentation logically: Project Goal -> Your Role -> Challenges -> Solutions (Design, Materials, Process) -> Results (Quantified Impact) -> Lessons Learned.

• Be prepared to answer detailed technical questions about your design choices, material properties, and testing methodologies.

• Emphasize your contribution to achieving project objectives, regulatory compliance, and business outcomes.

• For drug-device combination products, highlight your understanding of the unique integration challenges and requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare specific, quantifiable examples that showcase their leadership, technical acumen, and ability to navigate the complexities of pharmaceutical packaging operations.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the Novartis Careers portal via the provided URL.

• 📝 Enhancement Note: Tailor your resume to highlight keywords from the job description, such as "Packaging Design," "Drug-Device Combination Products," "Secondary Packaging," "Tertiary Packaging," "Pharmaceutical Environment," "Medical Devices," "Engineering," and "Project Management."

• 📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare a concise cover letter that articulates your specific experience relevant to the key responsibilities and requirements, emphasizing your suitability for a Senior Expert role in packaging technology.

• 📝 Enhancement Note: If invited for an interview, select 2-3 high-impact projects for your portfolio presentation that best demonstrate your technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and project leadership in pharmaceutical packaging. Practice presenting these projects clearly and concisely, focusing on measurable outcomes.

• 📝 Enhancement Note: Thoroughly research Novartis's current pipeline, packaging innovations, and corporate values. Be prepared to discuss how your skills and experience align with the company's strategic objectives and operational culture.

⚠️ 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.