Packaging Laboratory Technician

SUMMARY

In collaboration with the Senior Packaging Engineer, perform standardized laboratory testing to support new product development, packaging validation, and maintenance of the existing corrugated product portfolio. This role is responsible for preparing test samples, operating laboratory equipment in accordance with International Safe Transit Association (ISTA), ASTM International standards formerly the American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM), and company standards, accurately documenting results, and assisting in performance analysis to ensure packaging solutions meet quality, durability, and cost objectives.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Operate laboratory testing equipment, including setup and calibration, in accordance with established company procedures and applicable ISTA, ASTM, and TAPPI standards.
2. Prepare corrugated test samples to required specifications to ensure accurate, consistent, and repeatable test results.
3. Accurately record, compile, and maintain laboratory test data, observations, and reports in alignment with internal documentation and quality control procedures.
4. Analyze test results to identify performance trends, potential design improvements, and cost-optimization opportunities under the guidance of engineering leadership.
5. Support the evaluation and continuous improvement of corrugated packaging materials, board grades, flute profiles, and structural designs through structured laboratory testing and feedback.
6. Maintain laboratory organization, cleanliness, and equipment readiness, including routine inspection of testing apparatus and timely reporting of maintenance or calibration needs.
7. Assist in investigating packaging performance issues or customer complaints by conducting validation testing and documenting findings to support root-cause analysis.
8. Coordinate and track incoming test requests, prioritize workload based on project timelines, and communicate testing status updates to engineering and cross-functional teams.
9. Special projects and assignments as business dictates.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

• This position has no supervisory responsibility

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS

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  • High school diploma or equivalent required
  • 0-2 years' experience in a manufacturing environment or laboratory setting required
  • Experience in ISTA, ASTM, and APASS standards preferred
  • Possess effective interpersonal and communication skills, verbal and written
  • Must have attention to detail and focused concentration.
  • Must be able to learn new tasks and complete tasks independently.
  • Must possess strong organizational skills, ability to multi-task and responsiveness
  • Must be able to complete tasks that require a particular speed or productivity quota.
  • Must be able to adhere to process protocol and must be able to apply established protocols in a timely manner.
  
  
  
  

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit and use hands to handle or feel
• The employee frequently is required to talk or hear
• The employee is occasionally required to reach with hands and arms and bend at the knees
• The employee is required to regularly lift up to 30 pounds and occasionally lift up to 50 pounds
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus
• Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions

WORK ENVIRONMENT

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  • The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate
  • Normal warehouse and office environment
  
  
  
  

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

• N/A

OTHER DUTIES

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

This company is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics.

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