Packaging Technician

Manpower; Liverpool City Region; On-site; GBP 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A global recruitment agency is seeking a Packaging Technician to join an FMCG client's scientific R&D facility in Port Sunlight. This full-time temporary role involves supporting sustainability-focused projects through laboratory testing and data management. Candidates should have a background in science or engineering, alongside laboratory experience and strong analytical skills. The position offers competitive compensation, engaging in innovative packaging solutions that aim to reduce waste and support a circular economy.

Qualifications

• Experience working in a packaging role is a bonus, but not essential.
• Experience in laboratory Measurement and testing equipment.
• Basic understanding of packaging moulding technologies, preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

• Support project execution by planning and conducting packaging tests.
• Provide clear measurement and testing reports.
• Assist in developing packaging specifications.
• Manage job request systems for equipment scheduling.
• Maintain a safe laboratory environment.
• Manage daily packaging sample flow.
• Attend on-site moulding trials and support execution.
• Leverage digital tools for efficient project delivery.

Skills

Laboratory experience

Fluent PC skills

Excellent planning and time management skills

Strong analytical thinking

Effective collaboration

Clear communication skills

Education

Academic degree in science/engineering

Tools

Laboratory testing equipment

Excel

PowerPoint

Word

Job description

Manpower are currently seeking an interim Packaging Technician, to work with our global FMCG client Unilever, renowned for brands such as Dove, Sure, Persil, and Simple, and become an integral part of their fast-paced FMCG environment.

The position is based at our client's scientific Research & Development facility in Port Sunlight Village, Wirral easily accessible by train and car. This is a full-time temporary role to run for 6 months, requiring 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday. Compensation for this role is competitive, paying up to £34,672 per annum, pro rata, depending upon experience.

Background

Unilever is committed to creating a Waste-Free World through its ambitious Packaging Strategy - We are taking on the toughest challenges to make our vision a reality. We are re‑inventing our product packaging and materials to craft the sustainability journey towards our ambition of a circular, waste‑free and net zero future. To achieve these goals, we need completely new packaging materials and technologies that are yet to be discovered. Our industry‑leading material science programme strives to change our industry for good, transforming the traditional packaging sector into a next‑generation technical industry where entrepreneurial passion meets science‑backed innovations.

We are looking for a creative, dedicated and ambitious individual with an innovative mindset who shares our passion for the challenge.

[Link to relevant article]: https://www.unilever.com/planet-and-society/waste-free-world/rethinking-plastic-packaging/

Our Central Packaging Team aims to create a waste free, net zero packaging portfolio through a world class packaging materials capability with strong partnerships and ecosystems. The Centre will enable and accelerate the creation of novel packaging solutions to help meet Unilever's packaging ambitions and completely revolutionise our packaging with a particular focus on virgin plastic reduction. It is the place where future scientific leaders of the business are created. We are a high‑performing, diverse and inclusive team of dynamic entrepreneurial people with a strong scientific/engineering background, courage and curiosity, and passion for sustainability and delivery that will have a positive impact on the planet.

Purpose

As a Packaging Technician in our Central Packaging Group, you will play a key role in supporting the Post Consumer Recycled (PCR) Plastics Technology programme. This hands‑on role covers a range of responsibilities, including coordinating samples, conducting packaging laboratory testing & validation, capturing and reporting accurate data, and supporting on‑site moulding trials. You will collaborate closely with various business groups to ensure the successful delivery of time‑sensitive projects that supports Unilever's sustainability commitments. Additionally, you'll help maintain a safe, efficient, and well‑organised environment within the Port Sunlight packaging labs.

Responsibilities

• Supporting project execution through planning, set-up, and completion of packaging functional tests.
• Provide clear, accurate measurement & testing reports, with conclusions and recommendations, working with the team to drive consistent data output via digital tools, in line with functional excellence guidelines.
• Assisting in the development of packaging specifications.
• Managing job request systems to ensure organised, prioritised equipment scheduling and timely delivery of results.
• Maintaining a safe laboratory environment by adhering to risk assessments and standard operating procedures.
• Manage daily packaging sample flow, including cataloguing and outbound shipments.
• Attend on‑site moulding trials, supporting the packaging workstream lead and machine operator to ensure smooth execution of activities
• Leveraging digital tools to support efficient project delivery and operations

All About You

We are looking for someone with the right attitude, mindset and core competencies. Experience working in a packaging role is a bonus, but not essential.

• Academic degree in science/engineering preferred but not limited to.
• Laboratory experience, ideally in a packaging context
• Experience / appreciation in Packaging and/or Engineering/Manufacturing
• Experience in laboratory Measurement and testing equipment
• Fluent PC skills including Excel (using formulas and generating graphs), Powerpoint & Word.
• Excellent planning and time management skills.
• High level of rigour in data handling and strong analytical thinking.
• Effective collaboration and interpersonal skills to work within a team of experts.
• Clear and confident communication skills.
• A quick learner who takes initiative and acts proactively to get things done.
• Safety train - as a minimum RA, Manual Handling, CoSHH assessment and ISOSH Working Safely
• Good understanding of Good Laboratory Practice
• Basic understanding of packaging moulding technologies, including Extrusion Blow Moulding and Injection Moulding is preferred, but not required.