Packaging Technologist

Role Purpose
The Packaging Technologist will be the day-to-day owner of packaging, labelling and pre-pack execution across the business, ensuring accuracy, compliance, operational readiness and cross-functional alignment. This role is critical to delivering new products, maintaining system integrity and supporting manufacturing efficiency.

Key Responsibilities:

Labelling & Systems

• Ownership of NiceLabel templates (case, pallet, ingredient, back of pack and bagger prints)
• Liaison with ALS / NiceLabel support for troubleshooting and new template set-up
• Maintain and edit the NiceLabel master data file
• Set up and validate barcodes for Lidl, Dunnes and internal WIP pre-pack products
• SAP set-up via approved packaging specifications and physical barcode scan validation
• Maintain palletiser and pre-pack barcode data (manual uploads via USB as required)

Packaging Specifications & Artwork

• Create and maintain packaging and material specifications
• Review and approve artwork, recycling information and material details
• Define pack formats, sizes and cutter guides
• Agree label positioning with Sales and pack sizes with Manufacturing
• GMG approval (size, recycle information)
• Review first deliveries of pre-printed film against GMG approvals and retain samples
• Issue PK numbers in line with Technical governance and sign-off requirements

Pre-Pack & Manufacturing Support

• Confirm pre-pack line settings pre-production
• Case occupancy validation
• Support Affelt, Pattyn and case erector packaging interactions
• Coordinate with Pre-Pack Engineer on technical packaging execution
• Arrange film reel swabbing

Compliance & Reporting

• Maintain Valpack and Repak submissions
• Ensure all packaging materials meet internal quality, regulatory and customer requirements

New Materials & Trials

• Review and approve new packaging materials and supplier specifications
• Support trials including Print & Apply label applicator (NiceLabel / Tesco Fines)

Experience & Profile

• Degree or equivalent experience in Packaging Technology, Food Science or Engineering
• FMCG / food manufacturing experience essential
• Strong systems capability (NiceLabel, Colos, SAP, artwork tools)
• Highly organised, detail-driven and comfortable operating cross-functionally