Kalon Executive Search for Nutraceuticals, CPG and Wellness · 2 weeks ago
Packaging Equipment Engineer
San Diego County, CA
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level
$130K/yr - $150K/yr
7+ years expKalon Executive Search for Nutraceuticals, CPG and Wellness is seeking a Packaging Systems Engineer to enhance bottling, capping, and liquid filling processes. The role involves leading automation projects, optimizing operational performance, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure system reliability and efficiency.
Staffing & Recruiting
Responsibilities
Serve as the technical lead for projects related to automation of bottling, labeling, sealing, bundling, case packing, filling, and gummy packaging operations
Evaluate and implement advanced equipment and control systems, including robotics and PLC/HMI/SCADA integrations
Manage end-to-end automation project lifecycles including vendor selection, FAT/SAT, system validation (IQ/OQ/PQ), and operator training
Ensure all control and monitoring systems are standardized and integrated for consistent performance tracking and diagnostics
Analyze and resolve throughput limitations, waste contributors, and downtime using structured engineering approaches
Apply Lean principles, Six Sigma methodologies, and OEE data to optimize performance and reduce inefficiencies
Lead packaging line changeover improvement efforts using SMED and other rapid changeover tools
Participate in planning and executing capital projects for new packaging lines or facility modifications
Define long-term automation strategies to align with operational scaling and advancements in smart manufacturing
Stay ahead of industry trends by researching and proposing cutting-edge packaging solutions for supplements, liquids, and related products
Work with Maintenance and Operations to establish preventative and predictive maintenance protocols for packaging systems
Support problem-solving efforts and root cause investigations for mechanical, electrical, and automation-related issues
Develop and maintain comprehensive documentation for systems, including specifications, SOPs, and service guidelines
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Mechatronics, or Automation Engineering
At least 7 years of hands-on automation experience within packaging operations in the nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, or food sectors
Demonstrated expertise with automated bottling, liquid filling, labeling, capping, and downstream equipment
Skilled in integrating and troubleshooting servo-driven machines, robotic systems (ABB, FANUC, Yaskawa), and inspection systems
Proficient in PLC programming (Rockwell, Siemens), HMI/SCADA configuration, and industrial networking protocols
Experience with CIP system automation and cycle optimization
Familiarity with smart factory technology, IoT integration, and data-driven decision-making tools
Creative problem-solver with strong attention to technical detail
Positive, collaborative, and energetic team contributor
Capable of working independently with a strong sense of ownership
Organized, dependable, and highly motivated with strong project management skills
Preferred
LEAN or Six Sigma Certification (Green/Black Belt)
Benefits
Full benefits
Company
Kalon Executive Search for Nutraceuticals, CPG and Wellness
Kalon Executive Search and Recruitment is focused exclusively in the nutraceuticals and wellness industries.
11-50 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Early StageLeadership Team
Liesl Bernard
Chief Executive Officer
Company data provided by crunchbase