R&D Packaging Scientist 1 (Recent Grad Starting in 2027)

Location: Pleasanton, California, USA; hybrid workplace. The role is for candidates graduating between December 2026 and August 2027.

Salary: $61,800–$113,100 for Zone C, $68,000–$124,500 for Zone B, or $74,200–$135,800 for Zone A, depending on work location and other job-related factors. The role is also eligible for hirify.global incentive plans.

Company

hirify.global develops consumer products through research and development across product concept, raw materials, packaging, manufacturing, and final goods.

What you will do

• Develop innovative packaging that meets functional, regulatory, brand, sustainability, and consumer experience requirements.
• Own end-to-end packaging development, including conceptual design, prototyping, mechanical and chemical performance testing, consumer testing, lab validation, tooling qualification, scale-up, production, manufacturing, and supply chain activities.
• Create and manage packaging specifications for primary, secondary, tertiary, and display packaging, including fill weights, pallet configurations, cube information, and assembly diagrams.
• Develop and apply SOPs, test methods, and best practices; lead pilot and production trials, analyze results, troubleshoot issues, and support commercialization.
• Collaborate with R&D Product and Process Development, Marketing, Sales, and Supply Chain to interpret data, meet project objectives, manage technical risk, and drive efficiency.
• Contribute to packaging innovation while developing technical and leadership skills.

Requirements

• B.S. in Packaging Engineering, Materials Science Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering, or M.S. in Packaging Science.
• Graduation between December 2026 and August 2027.
• Minimum GPA of 3.0.
• Ability to work in a laboratory with various materials, including dust.
• Fine motor skills for prototyping samples.
• Knowledge of ASTM packaging testing methods.
• Working knowledge of ArtiosCAD and TOPS packaging software.
• Ability to learn quickly and demonstrate strong leadership and influencing skills.
• Excellent organizational skills, ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, and ability to work independently and cross-functionally with minimal supervision in a fast-paced environment.

Culture & Benefits

• Inclusive culture focused on respect, value, participation, and professional and personal wellbeing.
• Health plans and a market-leading 401(k) program with company match.
• Flexible time off, including half-day summer Fridays depending on location.
• Inclusive fertility and adoption benefits.
• Support for diverse perspectives and collaboration across technical and business functions.