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Packaging Engineer

PCI Pharma Services · Rockford, IL · $69,920–$81,000 a year · Full time

Posted Jul 22, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Oct 6, 2026

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Likely interview questions for this role

Written from this job description, not a generic list. Each one notes what the interviewer is really checking.

About your past

Tell me about a packaging project you improved after launch.

What they are checking: Whether they look for ways to optimize existing packaging, as the posting asks.

Tell me about a time you presented a design directly to a customer.

What they are checking: Whether they can explain design choices clearly and support commercial sales efforts.

What would you do

A client loves a design, but it won't run well on our packaging lines. What do you do?

What they are checking: Whether they balance creativity with what can actually be manufactured.

How do you manage several design projects with different deadlines?

What they are checking: Whether they can prioritize billable design work and keep customers informed.

A component vendor misses a deadline that affects a launch. How do you handle it?

What they are checking: Whether they find solutions and communicate early with internal teams and the client.

How do you work with internal teams like operations and quality on a new design?

What they are checking: Whether they bring in the right people early so the design works in production.

About the work

Walk me through how you'd design a new package for a pharmaceutical client, from first conversation to approved design.

What they are checking: Whether they have a clear process that covers customer needs, components and prototyping.

What design software do you use for packaging, and what have you built with it?

What they are checking: Whether they have real hands-on skill with the tools the role requires.

How do you work with vendors to develop and approve packaging components?

What they are checking: Whether they can manage suppliers through specifications, samples and approvals.

How do you build and test prototypes in a design lab?

What they are checking: Whether they have the hands-on assembly skills the posting mentions.

What special requirements do pharmaceutical packages have, like child resistance or patient compliance features?

What they are checking: Whether they understand the regulations and patient needs behind pharma packaging.

Practice this interview out loud.

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The full job description

As published by PCI Pharma Services.

Life changing therapies. Global impact. Bridge to thousands of biopharma companies and their patients. We are PCI. Our investment is in People who make an impact, drive progress and create a better tomorrow. Our strategy includes building teams across our global network to pioneer and shape the future of PCI. Summary of Objective: Reporting to Package Design Supervisor, successful Package Designer II would work to support the development and launch of new package designs and existing package enhancements. Utilizing technical design abilities and creative insights, the incumbent would support the development and commercialization of new package designs and optimization of existing packaging; including directly engaging with customers, coordinating with vendors and suppliers to develop/approve packaging components, coordinating with internal stakeholders as well as managing R&D and prototyping activities in the Design Lab. Utilizing design software, practical packaging development knowledge and hands-on assembly skills, Package Designer II would create and prepare design solutions for PCI clients to support commercial sales efforts and billable Design Services. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The essential duties and responsibilities include the following but other duties may be assigned. Designs and assembles a wide variety of complex packaging systems: primary, secondary and tertiary packaging formats that meet customer requirements and conforms to PCI manufacturing capabilities. Creates sketches, 3D renderings and visual presentations of packaging concepts. Regularly communicates ideas, solutions and improvements to customers and internal teams through digital presentations and/or meetings. Creates and modifies packaging structural drawings and web layouts using various CAD platforms without the need of supervision. Reviews and edits structural elements to ensure that they meet customer requests and PCI operational requirements. Participates in technical reviews and supports project onboarding plans. Performs prototyping duties in on-site prototyping laboratory, including management of supplies and equipment maintenance. Performs various activities for billable Design Services: Design Consultation, Conceptualization, Package Development, Sample Preparation and Package Performance Testing. Provides direct support to Sr. Designers and Project Leads during project planning and execution. Maintains and tracks digital assets related to packaging design. Participates in recruiting events for interns/co-ops and contributes to the candidate selection and onboarding process. Provides training, mentoring and direction to Jr. Designers, in-house interns/co-ops. Supports internal corporate and marketing activities as needed. Supports ESG initiatives. Knowledge of and adherence to all PCI, cGMP, and GCP policies, procedures, rules. Attendance to work is an essential function of this position. Performs other duties as assigned by Manager/Supervisor Qualifications: The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required for the stated position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Required • Bachelor's Degree in a related field and 2+ years related industry experience and/or training. • It is expected Package Designer II would have completed advanced training for CAD based design software (Solid works & Artios-CAD) as well as experience and proficiency in graphic design and photo editing software such as the Adobe Creative Suite. • Expected to have experience in development of advanced drug delivery device packaging and special child resistant and adult friendly packaging including the performance testing and qualifications of such packaging systems. • Must have experience with thermoforming design/manufacturing technologies and materials. • Must have experience with unit dose blister design/manufacturing technologies and materials. • Must have experience with folding carton and wallet card design/manufacturing/printing technologies and materials. • Good familiarity with project management tools and practices. Be able to plan, track and communicate project status effectively. • Experience or basic knowledge of flexible packaging and materials. • Basic Computer Skills: Ability to perform basic computer tasks and has the ability to operate common computer programs. • Basic Mathematical Skills • Full Professional Proficiency: Ability to speak, read, and write fluently and accurately on all levels pertinent to professional needs. • High Reasoning: Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where there is only limited standardization. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions that may be provided in various forms. • High Standard of Report Writing. Preferred: • Ability to effectively present information to various people as the job requires. • Ability to follow instructions and respond to management direction. • Ability to work independently and/or as part of a team. • Ability to display original thinking and creativity. The hiring rate for this position is $69,920-$81,000 plus eligibility for an annual performance bonus. Final offer amounts are determined by multiple factors, including but not limited to specific and relevant experience, education, credentials, geography, and subject matter expertise. PCI offers full-time employees a competitive benefits package that includes paid time off, health insurance coverage (including dental and vision), a flexible spending account, and a 401(k) plan. #LI-SW1 Join us and be part of building the bridge between life changing therapies and patients. Let’s talk future Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement: PCI Pharma Services is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. We do not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, marital or domestic or civil union status, familial status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics, disability, military eligibility or veteran status, or any other protected status. At PCI, Equity and Inclusion are at the core of our company’s purpose: Together, delivering life-changing therapies. We are committed to cultivating an inclusive workplace by holding ourselves accountable to the highest standards of understanding, fairness, respect, and equal opportunity – at every level. We envision a PCI community where everyone can belong and grow, and we strive to bring this vision to reality by continuously and intentionally assessing our people practices, policies and programs, marketing approach, and workplace culture.

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