Product Development Engineer (Miamisburg, OH/Escanaba, MI/Quinnesec, MI)

Job description

Purpose:

Are you interested in being part of an innovative team that supports Billerud’s mission to lead the way when it comes to challenging conventional packaging and business? Our decisions are guided by the promise of creating a better tomorrow. Building a future where lighter, stronger, more durable and sustainable packaging is the natural choice not only requires experience and expertise, but also takes dedication, teamwork and perseverance. This is a journey that we are making together with our talented staff and our customers.

Summary Description:       

The Product Development Engineer leads Product Development projects for Billerud NA Paper through all phases of the StageGate process. This role is responsible for driving innovation, developing new products for existing and emerging markets, and ensuring full and profitable utilization of Billerud NA’s manufacturing assets.

The position oversees idea generation; feasibility studies in laboratory, pilot, and production environments; product and equipment benchmarking; competitive analysis; and the planning, management, and execution of product trials. The role also supports the successful introduction of new products as they transition to customers.

Success in this position requires strong analytical skills, advanced technical and manufacturing knowledge, effective problem‑solving abilities, and the ability to collaborate across functions to deliver high‑impact results.

Qualifications

Key Accountabilities:

• Create, develop, and commercialize products that align with strategic goals, partnering closely with marketing, sales, customers, and brand owners.
• Manage product development projects by collaborating with manufacturing, suppliers, marketing, and customers to design effective solutions for new and existing applications.
• Communicate development progress, milestones, and outcomes to internal and external stakeholders.
• Work with manufacturing, brand management, and technical service teams to identify and resolve product performance gaps.
• Provide technical support during customer evaluations and qualifications of new products and materials.
• Identify customer technical and product needs, communicate requirements to manufacturing, sales, brand management, and product development leadership, and support customers during trials and commercialization.
• Build a deep understanding of product requirements for assigned business segments by analyzing trends, opportunities, and customer needs to inform segment strategy.
• Support customer innovation sessions and brand‑owner initiatives, translating product development ideas into business intelligence and strategic planning inputs.
• Develop and maintain the technical expertise needed to understand end‑use applications and proactively collaborate with customers to identify new uses for paper.

Personal qualities

Required Experience and Education:

• BS degree in Engineering, advanced degree preferred.
• Demonstrated professional experience in paper, paperboard and/or packaging.
• Extensive product development and project management experience.
• The position could require an estimated 25% - 50% overnight travel depending on location.

Required skills:

Minimum Required Skills:

• Demonstrated success in solving technical and manufacturing related challenges.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with a strong record of relationship building.
• Proficient with Microsoft PowerPoint, Excel, Word and Teams.
• Knowledge of processes involved in servicing and supporting customer sales.
• Ability to influence change across multiple parts of the organization.
• Work beyond normal work schedule as necessary to fulfill position responsibilities.

Application information

Billerud NA is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. All qualified
applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to
race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin,
protected veteran status or status as an individual with a disability.

Why us?

• Be part of a dynamic team within Billerud
• An opportunity to contribute to a more sustainable future
• Development and career opportunities
• Tuition reimbursement and certificate courses offered through partner schools.
• Performance-based bonus
• You can choose among three medical plans designed to help you and your family stay healthy (with virtual care options!).
• Generous 401K match including discretionary annual contribution
• HSA Contribution match with additional contribution for annual preventive exam
• Dental & Vision coverage
• Company paid Disability Coverage
• Wellness rewards program
• Prescription Benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Opportunity to hybrid working according to company standard

Our recruitment process may include interviews, recruitment test, reference
checks, and alcohol & drug testing.