Packaging technologists design and develop packaging materials for all types of products including food and drink, pharmaceuticals and other manufactured goods.

Technologists work with product manufacturers to develop packaging for new and existing products, which meets client specifications, is cost-effective and adheres to statutory and regulatory requirements covering that product. In order to design appropriate packaging, a technologist needs to consider:

• the product’s function
• how fragile the product is and the level of shock protection needed
• possible adverse product reaction to light, moisture or any materials within the packaging
• conditions such as the temperature the package may be subjected to during transportation
• legal requirements, such as accurate labelling and safe packaging of hazardous materials
• production costs and environmental impact.

Technologists also work closely with graphic designers to ensure the appearance of the packaging, where appropriate, is attractive to consumers and relates to company marketing and branding strategies for that product.

The packaging components go through several production trials, being continually tested and evaluated until a final version is reached. The technologist consults with production engineers and other specialists in the packaging line operation about how the packaging is to be put together before final approval.

Hours and Environment

Most packaging technologists work 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. Those working in manufacturing may occasionally need to be on-call. There may be opportunities for part-time work.

Packaging technologists usually work in an office. Some time is spent in laboratories, testing or weighing materials, or observing production line processes in the factory. On these occasions, protective clothing will be worn.

There may be some travel to material suppliers or manufacturers. This could involve staying away from home for short periods of time.

Skills and Interests

To be a packaging technologist you should:

• have an aptitude for science and maths
• have strong communication and negotiation skills
• have good IT skills
• be flexible and a good team worker
• be able to pay attention to detail
• be able to work within a budget
• be able to work to deadlines
• have a creative approach to problem solving.

Entry

Some technologists start as packaging line operators and gradually move up to become packaging technologists. However, most people who enter the role hold a degree or BTEC HND in packaging or science subject. Materials science, food technology, nutrition, physics and chemistry are particularly relevant science subjects.

Minimum entry requirements for a degree course are two A levels/three H grades or equivalent including at least one science based subject and five GCSEs (A-C)/S grades (1-3) or equivalent including English, mathematics and a science subject. The minimum qualifications for the HND are one A level/two H grades or equivalent in a science based subject combined with four GCSEs (A-C)/S grades (1-3) or equivalent including English, mathematics and a science based subject.

An Access to Higher Education qualification may also be accepted for entry to certain courses. Please check with colleges or universities for exact entry requirements.

For details on career options within packaging, see the Packaging Futures website in Further Information.

Training

Packaging technologists receive on-the-job training from experienced technologists.

The Institute of Packaging (IOP) offers a Certificate in Packaging covering packaging principles, materials and costs. The course is a combination of class-based study with online options.

The IOP also offers the Diploma in Packaging Technology which covers the functions of packaging, properties of packaging materials, and the process of package development. This is equivalent to degree level and can be undertaken intensively, part-time or online.

For detailed information on the Certificate and Diploma, together with information on training centre locations, see the Packaging Industry Awarding Body website in Further Information.

Postgraduate courses in packaging technology are also available.

Opportunities

Packaging technologists work for packaging manufacturers, retailers and manufacturers of other products. It is possible to move into other areas such as marketing, development management or artwork design. With experience, there may be options to work freelance as a packaging consultant.

Annual Income

Figures are intended as a guideline only.

The starting salary for packaging technologists is from £15,000 to £20,000 a year.
Experienced technologists can expect to earn from £25,000 to £35,000 a year.

Further information

Willoughby House
Broad Street
Stamford
Lincolnshire
PE9 1PB
Tel: 01780 759200