Packaging Engineer

About the role

The Packaging Engineer will own the end‑to‑end lifecycle of automotive parts packaging for Ford’s South African operations. Working closely with suppliers, contract packers and internal logistics teams, you will ensure packaging solutions protect product integrity, maximise storage density and meet both domestic and export market requirements.

Key responsibilities

• Define and enforce standardized packaging specifications, materials and labeling for South African suppliers.
• Validate that packaging complies with export market regulations and South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) requirements.
• Optimise packaging for protection and density to reduce damage during storage and transport.
• Maintain and approve packaging specifications in the Global Service Part Packaging System (GSPPS).
• Engage with suppliers, contract packers and warehouse teams to resolve packaging issues via the Gemba App.
• Identify and implement cost‑saving and quality‑improvement initiatives.
• Coordinate statements of work and approvals for external contract packers, ensuring adherence to quality, cost and safety standards.
• Support regional packaging initiatives across IMG markets and manage corrective actions.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum five years of experience in packaging, warehouse or logistics operations, preferably within the automotive sector.
• Proven experience working with suppliers and cross‑functional teams.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities.

Required skills

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
• Experience using the Gemba App for issue tracking.