**Summary**:Seeking a Packaging Specialist to manage and accelerate packaging documentation, improvement initiatives, color management, and packaging designs.
This job will require an understanding of the many aspects of both design and manufacturing.
**Responsibilities**:- Working knowledge of corrugate, ridged plastics, and polybag packaging materials- Coordinate with Supply Chain, Supplier Quality, and vendors to improve distribution center's safety and operational efficiency- Leverage 3rd party packaging consultants to improve existing unit box and master carton designs- Document packaging and master case requirements in Product Requirements Documentation- Conduct package testing procedures and standards to support the effective design, validation, and implementation of new packages- Lead projects to optimize box sizes to reduce cube/shelf requirements in stores and distribution centers- Provide direct support in creating a packaging manual for AutoZone- Manage the color management process for private brands which also includes ongoing inspections- Participate in project planning, manage the flow of information, follow up and communicate project milestones and associated risks- Research new or emerging packaging trends and technologies and educate the team as needed- Lead and manage short, medium- and long-term goals and development criteria and procurement of sustainable packaging materials (includes sourcing responsibly and optimizing for efficiency and effectiveness in product and package development, quality assurance and use of life cycle inventory and life cycle assessment to help guide the use of packaging and reduce the environmental impact and ecological footprint).- Provide quarterly updates on packaging cost trends- Provide annual packaging analysis for top categories to highlight new or improved packaging designs- Work with the cross-functional teams within the Quality, Merchandising, and Marketing groups in the US as well as the overseas quality teams and vendors.- Train and educate the cross-functional team on best practices and technologies.- **Requirements**:- 4 to 5 years of experience with product development, preferably in retail- Undergraduate Degree Required- Strong analytical, communication, and presentation skills required- Demonstrated broad and in-depth knowledge of packaging materials and processes- Highly organized and detail-oriented- Strong communication, interpersonal skills, flexibility, and ability to work independently- The ability to handle multiple tasks and to prioritize their importance is required- Availabilty to travel once per quarter period