Paper Packaging Materials Engineer, Global Materials Science - LUX, Luxembourg

Originally posted 21 October 2026 by the employer.

Co-develop paper substrates, adhesives, and coatings integrated directly with packaging automation hardware.

About the role

This role leads packaging materials development across pulp and paper manufacturing, converting operations, tape and adhesive systems, coatings, and packaging automation equipment for the Global Materials Science organization. Embedded with automation hardware development teams, you will align European materials development with North American operations and regional supplier capabilities.

What you'll do

• Lead laboratory research and development of packaging materials, including paper substrates, adhesives, tapes, coatings, and alternative fiber technologies.
• Design and execute experiments optimizing material formulations and processing parameters using the processing-structure-properties framework.
• Serve as the primary technical link between EU and NA materials science teams to align and harmonize global specifications while addressing regional regulations such as REACH and the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation.
• Collaborate with automation hardware development teams to co-develop packaging materials with automated equipment, optimizing machine runnability, reliability, and throughput.
• Perform and direct materials characterization using tensile/burst/tear testing, rheometry, thermal analysis (DSC, TGA), spectroscopy (FTIR), microscopy (SEM, optical), and surface analysis following ASTM, TAPPI, ISO, EN, and ISTA standards.
• Partner with EU paper mills, converters, and adhesive and tape manufacturers to evaluate capabilities, guide process optimization, and scale new materials into production.

What you'll need

• Professional experience in materials science or engineering with hands-on work in pulp and paper manufacturing, packaging converting, and adhesives.
• Experience with materials characterization methods including tensile/burst/tear testing, rheometry, thermal analysis (DSC, TGA), spectroscopy (FTIR), and microscopy (SEM, optical).
• Working knowledge of industry testing standards including ASTM, TAPPI, ISO, EN, and ISTA.
• Experience interfacing with packaging converting equipment such as folders, gluers, sealers, tape applicators, and labelers.
• Track record of collaborating with paper mills, converters, and adhesive or coating suppliers on process optimization and specification development.