Packaging Engineer (Beauty) - Independent Contractor
Contractor
New York, NY, USA
Posted on Oct 24, 2026
1. Sample Evaluation & Validation Testing
Catch fit, function and cosmetic issues at the sample stage, while they’re still cheap to fix.
- Evaluate vendor samples at each gate (T1 / T2 / T3 and beyond) for fit, function and cosmetic quality against specification, with written findings
- Run bench functional testing (priming, dosage, actuation force, restitution, seal and leakage) and report results
- Coordinate formula–packaging compatibility testing with labs and formulation, and track results to completion
- Issue clear, specific correction lists to suppliers after each sample round
2. Quality Gates
Make sure what reaches the line is what was approved.
- Conduct PPS / decorated PPS reviews, first article inspections and line trial observations, with a written report for each
- Review finished-good assembly at the contract manufacturer and report findings ahead of approval
- Investigate component failures, identify root cause and recommend corrective action
3. Specifications & Drawings
Give suppliers and contract manufacturers one unambiguous source of truth.
- Review technical drawings, dielines and tolerances against structural specification
- Write component specifications and standards for primary, secondary and tertiary packaging
4. Assembly & Fill Instructions
Make sure every contract manufacturer quotes and builds from the same inputs.
- Write per-SKU assembly and fill instructions for contract manufacturers in Nécessaire’s standard format (fill height, orientation, viscosity range, lot code placement, pack-out)
- Update instructions as launches progress, so CM quotes stay built on the same, unambiguous inputs
5. Platform & Value Engineering Programs
Bring two new pump platforms to launch and find savings without compromising function.
- Lead the technical workstream on the airless and atmospheric pump programs: sample evaluation, validation tracking and test documentation
- Test and analyze designated value-engineering projects (material, structure and component changes) and report recommendations
- Work directly with suppliers on sample corrections and tooling adjustments, coordinated with Nécessaire
Required Qualifications
- 3-5+ years packaging engineering experience in beauty, personal care, fragrance or CPG
- Hands-on experience with primary packaging: injection- and blow-molded components, closures, tubes, pumps
- Working knowledge of secondary packaging: folding cartons, rigid boxes, sets and kits
- Able to read and mark up technical drawings; solid understanding of dimensional tolerancing
- Experience running functional and compatibility testing, and documenting results clearly
- Line trial and contract manufacturer experience
- Experience working directly with overseas suppliers (Asia and Europe), including across time zones
- Self-directed; able to manage multiple concurrent workstreams and deliver to agreed milestones
- Able to contract as an independent professional, individually or through a business entity, with their own insurance and tax responsibilities
Preferred Experience
- Airless and atmospheric pump systems — sampling, validation and supplier qualification
- CAD proficiency (SolidWorks or equivalent)
- Transit testing (ISTA) and e-commerce packaging performance
- Decoration processes: hot stamp, screen print, metallization, spray
- Bio-based and recycled resins; sustainability requirements from major retailers
- Limited edition and collaboration launches on compressed timelines