Reporting to the VP of Science & Technology, the Sr. Principal Packaging Engineer leads the identification, development, and application of new packaging materials, equipment, and technology as a part of the long-term R&D organization. Sustainable packaging materials and structures (recyclable, compostable, renewable) are a key emphasis area, supporting Conagra’s 2025 Sustainable Packaging Commitments and beyond. This position is the technical project leader for major packaging technology initiatives across the Conagra Brands portfolio. This role acts as a coach and technical resource for the broader Packaging R&D team. Industry expertise in package converting, material science, and/or polymer science is required. Technology scouting and validation experience is desired. 

Position Responsibilities

• Champion technology improvement, cost savings, and innovation projects that align with technology strategy.

• Define scope for complex technology projects and execute with cross-functional partners. 

• Maintain strong external focus thru technology scouting and industry networks. 

• Excel at managing multiple complex projects simultaneously.

• Collaborate directly with internal business peers and cross functional teams at a high level.

• Cultivate and foster relationships with external partners and resources.

• Recognized as a technical leader and utilized as a subject matter expert.

• Exhibit strong foundational technical skills, including project management, experimental design, new equipment qualification, and technical documentation & communication.

• Maintain high awareness of technical trends and developments in the packaging industry.

• Mentor packaging engineers.

Position Qualifications

• Bachelor’s in Engineering or related field with minimum 10 years relevant work experience in packaging industry (CPG preferred) or Masters / PhD in Packaging or related field with minimum 7 years relevant work experience in packaging industry required.

• Thorough understanding of material science and package converting.

• Excellent understanding of packaging materials, capabilities, and equipment.

• An understanding of food science and how food is affected in packaging.

• Able to evaluate new package technology and systems.

• Experience with government regulatory requirements in the processing of food.

• Advanced verbal and written communication skills.

• Ability to collaborate and maintain cross-functional partnerships.

• Good negotiating skills when working through conflict resolution.

• Proficient in all appropriate IT tools.

Our Benefits:

We care about your total well-being and will support you with the following, subject to your location and role:

• Health: Medical, dental and vision insurance, company-paid life, accident and disability insurance
• Wealth: great salaries, matching 401(k) and stock purchase plan
• Growth: online courses, virtual and classroom development experiences
• Balance: paid-time off , flexible work-schedules (subject to your location and role)

Our Company:

Conagra Brands is one of North America's leading branded food companies. We have a rich heritage of making great food, and a team that’s passionate about innovation and growth. Conagra offers choices for every occasion through iconic brands, such as Birds Eye®, Marie Callender's®, Banquet®, Healthy Choice®, Slim Jim®, Reddi-wip®, and Vlasic®, and emerging brands, including Angie's® BOOMCHICKAPOP®, Duke's®, Earth Balance®, Gardein®, and Frontera®.

We pride ourselves on having the most impactful, energized and inclusive culture in the food industry. For more information, visit www.conagrabrands.com.

Conagra Brands is an equal opportunity employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, pregnancy, leave status, disability, veteran status, genetic information and/or any other characteristic or status protected by national, federal, state or local law. â€‹