Packaging Department Manager

Skokie, IL 60077

Employment Type: Permanent Job Category: Production Management Job Number: 48030430 Compensation: $110000-130000 / year

Job Description


Title: Packaging Manager 

Location: Niles, IL 

Overview:
Sterling has helped build careers for thousands for professionals like yourself. Our expert recruiters support you at every step in the process and as a Best of Staffing company, Sterling provides exciting work with exceptional employers across the U.S.

Hire Type: Direct Hire
Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision
Bonus/ Incentives/ Stock Options: 401k matching 
Pay: $110k-130k 

Job Summary:
  • Seeking a hands-on and experienced Packaging Manager to oversee packaging operations in a high-volume food manufacturing environment. This role will lead all packaging functions including equipment performance, team development, and process optimization. The Packaging Manager will be accountable for safety compliance, food quality standards, labor/material efficiency, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Job Duties:
  • Lead day-to-day packaging operations across vertical and horizontal form-fill-seal systems, zipper pouch machines, and bulk case packaging lines.
  • Drive continuous improvement efforts with a focus on reducing waste, downtime, and material variances while enhancing overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).
  • Develop and implement lean manufacturing initiatives including 5S, root cause analysis, and Kaizen events.
  • Build and maintain an empowered, accountable team through clear role definition, training, coaching, and performance management.
  • Monitor labor and material cost variances and take corrective actions to align with financial targets.
  • Oversee scheduling, staffing, and training for both direct and indirect packaging personnel in a 24/7 operation.
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with Maintenance, Quality, Engineering, R&D, Planning, and HR to achieve production goals.
  • Ensure compliance with all safety, GMP, food safety, allergen, and regulatory training requirements.
  • Maintain accurate SOPs, SSOPs, work instructions, and ensure team adherence to established procedures.

Qualifications:
  • 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in food or CPG manufacturing, with deep knowledge of packaging systems.
  • Strong understanding of lean manufacturing and continuous improvement principles.
  • Demonstrated ability to manage labor, overhead, and material cost performance against budget.
  • Effective communicator with strong interpersonal, analytical, and organizational skills.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook) and ERP/MRP systems.
  • Skilled at coaching and developing supervisors and frontline team members.
  • Ability to evaluate processes, identify bottlenecks, and implement corrective actions.
  • Engineering degree preferred; Green Belt certification is a plus.


Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information. 

Meet Your Recruiter

Alicia Alexander

As one of the most respected names in engineering staffing, Sterling has hundreds of opportunities with top employers. If you’ve got a friend or colleague seeking their next move in engineering, we could have their next opportunity. We offer a referral bonus for every referral that we place. Submit referral now. 

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About Skokie, IL

Ready to kickstart your career in Skokie, Illinois? This vibrant suburb of Chicago offers a perfect blend of urban amenities and suburban charm, making it an ideal place to grow both personally and professionally. From the delightful Skokie Farmers' Market to the world-renowned Skokie Sculpture Park, this area is brimming with cultural attractions and recreational opportunities. Discover the charm of Skokie's diverse dining scene, catch a performance at the Skokie Theatre, or explore the stunning collections at the Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center. With easy access to downtown Chicago and top-notch schools in the area, Skokie provides a perfect balance for both work and play. Explore our job listings in Skokie today and take the next step towards an exciting career in this bustling community.