Packaging Analytical Contract Position

Perform routine and non-routine packaging performance testing to support the development and optimization of new and existing beverage packaging at our Engineering Development Center and Packaging Engineering Technology Center located in Atlanta. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform routine and non-routine packaging physical performance evaluation, conduct material characterization including chemical and thermal/mechanical testing on packaging and packaging materials
• Work with senior engineers and scientists to evaluate and validate existing test methods and develop new test methods
• Organize workflow and task schedules to maximize laboratory efficiency (e.g., prioritize sample analysis, assign tasks, preventative maintenance)
• Maintain analytical instruments and ensure turn-around time and test result reliability
• Record data from analyses or experiments in a computer, log book or laboratory notebook
• Interpret data from routine and non-routine analyses in order to validate that materials meet specifications for future commercialization
• Attend routine presentations and refresher courses regarding safety and environmental issues (e.g., waste disposal) to ensure up-to-date knowledge and adherence to related company policies
• Monitor stock of laboratory supplies to maintain proper level of inventory
• Dispose of expired retained samples and chemicals according to schedules and expiration dates in order to keep lab area clean and safe
• Stay current with industry trends on latest packaging testing technologies and capabilities to support packaging development and commercialization

Requirements:

• Strong in communication and teamwork
• Ability to work independently with minimum supervision
• BS in Engineering, Chemistry, or other related field with 0-3 years pertinent experience
• Experience with the following: 
  • Running, maintaining, and troubleshooting analytical instruments and other routine testing equipment
  • Spectroscopy, thermal/mechanical analysis techniques
  • Preparation of samples and standards for quantitative evaluation
  • Interpreting data from routine and non-routine analyses and recording data in a technical report format
• US citizen or permanent resident
• Ability to commute in the metro-Atlanta area. No moving stipend will be provided.

General Competencies:

• Planning and Organizing: Establishing courses of action for oneself and/or others to ensure that work is completed efficiently according to the strategies and destination of the department and/or organization.
• Acting with Integrity: Maintaining a commitment to honesty; modeling social, ethical, and organizational values; firmly adhering to codes of conduct and ethical principles.
• Attention to Detail: Accomplishing tasks by considering all areas involved, no matter how small; showing concern for all aspects of the job; accurately checking processes and tasks.
• Contributing to Team Success: Actively participating as a committed member of a team and working with other team members to help complete goals and deliverables.
• Valuing Diversity: Acknowledging similarities and differences of others and using this knowledge to work effectively on a team or with individuals of varied backgrounds, cultures, styles, and views in an effort to improve performance and increase productivity.
• Tolerating Stress: Maintaining stable performance under pressure or opposition (such as time pressure or job ambiguity); handling stress in a manner that is acceptable to others and to the organization.
• Work Standards: Setting high standards of performance for self; assuming responsibility and accountability for successfully completing assignments or tasks; self-imposing standards of excellence rather than having standards imposed.

Function-Specific Knowledge & Skills:

• Instrumental Analysis: Ability to measure packaging dimension and evaluate packaging physical performance using laboratory instruments.
• Laboratory/Analytical Instrumentation: Knowledge of instrumental theory, mechanical construction and operation, maintenance requirements and ability to operate, modify and repair laboratory instruments.
• Proprietary Composition Information: Ability to recognize and protect proprietary information as it relates to formulas, ingredients and design.
• Basic engineering principles and technical skills: Knowledge of analytical engineering tools and other techniques, including developments in the field and their effect on our packaging performance.
• Calibration: Ability to measure instrument variations and apply corrections for ensuring the accuracy and precision of an instrument or measurement tool.
• Laboratory Practices: Knowledge and application of Good Laboratory Practices (e.g., handling of chemicals and glassware, preparation of standards and reagents, proper measuring techniques, data management, housekeeping) and ability to apply 6S to the workplace.
• Databases/Data Acquisition: Knowledge of and ability to use technical databases. Ability to understand and apply hardware and software used in the collection of technical data in a laboratory or field environment.
• Laboratory Safety and Environmental Protection: The ability and willingness to apply HAZMAT policies, HAZWOPER policies, environmental policies, OSHA policies and a chemical hygiene plan. This includes the safe handling of chemicals and glassware, the use of personal protective equipment and Company safety rules.