Senior Consultant – Packaging Engineering & ISTA Certification

This is a contract position

• Location: Flexible (Remote with periodic on-site engagements as needed)
• Duration: 6+ Months
• Experience: 10+ years of progressive experience in packaging engineering, packaging R&D, or related fields within a manufacturing, consumer goods, pharmaceuticals, or industrial setting., Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related technical discipline preferred

Scope:
We are seeking a seasoned Senior Consultant with deep expertise in packaging systems, supply chain logistics, and international certification standards to guide our organization through the rigors of ISTA (International Safe Transit Association) accreditation. In this key leadership role, you will leverage your extensive background in packaging design, materials science, testing methodologies, and compliance frameworks to pinpoint operational gaps, elevate our packaging protocols, and ensure our products meet the highest global benchmarks for safe and efficient transit.

Key Responsibilities:

•  Comprehensive Gap Analysis
• Conduct a top-to-bottom assessment of current packaging designs, material specifications, handling instructions, and in-house test methodologies.
• Compare existing practices against ISTA standards, identifying shortfalls in performance, documentation, and compliance readiness.
• Synthesize findings into a clear, data-driven gap analysis report with an emphasis on actionable recommendations.

Strategic Roadmap & Action Planning

• Develop a multi-phase implementation plan that addresses identified gaps, prioritizes high-impact improvements, and sequences initiatives for maximum efficiency.
• Integrate compliance and risk mitigation strategies into the broader packaging development lifecycle.

 Packaging Optimization & Material Science Expertise

• Advise on cutting-edge packaging materials, structural designs, cushioning systems, and unit load configurations to reduce product damage and enhance cost-effectiveness.
• Employ knowledge of environmental conditions, distribution hazards, and global logistics patterns to refine packaging solutions for multiple transit scenarios.

ISTA Testing & Compliance Management

• Design and oversee ISTA-aligned testing protocols—ranging from basic drop tests to advanced simulations of temperature, humidity, and vibration stress.
• Ensure proper calibration of testing equipment, documentation rigor, and traceability of test results to support a robust compliance narrative.

 Cross-Functional Collaboration & Leadership

• Serve as the principal liaison across Packaging Engineering, Quality Assurance, R&D, Operations, and Supply Chain teams, ensuring alignment on technical specifications and validation protocols.
• Influence executive decision-making with clear communication of risks, benefits, and long-term value tied to ISTA certification initiatives.

Training, Mentorship & Best Practices

• Lead hands-on workshops and technical training sessions for internal teams, enhancing their understanding of ISTA standards, test procedures, and compliance criteria.
• Mentor junior packaging engineers and cross-functional team members on emerging trends, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and professional growth.

Performance Tracking & Stakeholder Reporting

• Establish measurable KPIs and monitor progress against the certification roadmap.
• Provide transparent, regular updates to senior leadership, highlighting milestone achievements, resource needs, and risk areas, and recommending course corrections as needed.

Qualifications & Experience:

• 10+ years of progressive experience in packaging engineering, packaging R&D, or related fields within a manufacturing, consumer goods, pharmaceuticals, or industrial setting.
• Demonstrated success in achieving ISTA certifications or equivalent international packaging standards (e.g., ASTM, ISO) for product distribution.
• Expertise in packaging material science (corrugated board, polymers, foams, composites) and familiarity with a range of testing equipment and simulation tools.
• Proven experience managing cross-functional projects, bridging technical and non-technical stakeholders, and driving process improvements in complex supply chain environments.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills, supported by exceptional communication abilities.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related technical discipline preferred.

Why Join Us?
This consultancy offers a unique opportunity to influence the strategic direction of our packaging operations at a critical junction. You will play a leadership role in elevating our packaging integrity, reinforcing brand reputation, reducing transit-related product damage, and laying the groundwork for sustained compliance. Your contributions will have a lasting impact on our supply chain performance, customer satisfaction, and global market competitiveness.

Location: Flexible (Remote with periodic on-site engagements as needed)
Type: Project-based consultancy with potential for extended partnership

Apply Today:
If you are a seasoned packaging expert ready to drive meaningful change and guide our organization toward ISTA certification, we invite you to apply and help shape our journey toward world-class packaging excellence.

 
Company Description:
CAC is a staffing company who supplies resources to organizations that need specialized or technical talent in Automation Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Programming, AI/ML Data Science, Computer Systems Validation. CAC has experience working with industries such as Automotive, Pharmaceutical, Biotech, Life Sciences, Manufacturing, Material Handling, Chemical, Food & Beverage, Medical Device, Transportation etc.