Invisible but indispensable
Our carbon black is not immediately visible, yet it is found almost everywhere—in tires that get you safely to your destination, in the smartphone you hold in your hand every day, in the paint that brings your home to life, and in batteries that supply energy. Without it, modern life would come to a standstill.
But what you will see right away is that we invest in you. In your development, your prospects, and your future. We provide you with the framework you need to grow—professionally, personally, and financially. Your commitment makes a difference to us, and in return you receive more than just appreciation: you receive genuine recognition.
Become a global voice for packaging at Orion. As Global Packaging Expert at Orion, you will shape the future of sustainable and efficient packaging solutions – with impact across our global production network. In this strategic and technical key role, you can expect real autonomy, international projects, and the opportunity to define new standards in a dynamic environment.
Curious? Learn more about the position and how you can make a difference with us.
Before we go into detail: the basics.
37.5 hours/week | permanent position | potential working location: Cologne, Frankfurt (both Germany), Malmö (Sweden), Ravenna (Italy), Marseille (France), Luxembourg or Jaslo (Poland) | 30 days of vacation | 25% international travel | Salary range: €75,000 – €110,000 (according to collective agreement for the chemical industry)
The job that fits your ambitions:
* Drive the development, validation and implementation of innovative packaging solutions – with a focus on functionality, sustainability, cost-efficiency and regulatory compliance (e.g. EPA, FIFRA).
* Manage technical projects to optimize packaging designs, materials, and processes: from supplier qualification and standardization to continuous improvement – in close collaboration with procurement, production, marketing and suppliers.
* Create and maintain packaging specifications, test plans, usage instructions, certifications, drawings and artwork templates – ensuring compliance with internal and external standards and supporting the management of change (MOC).
* Provide technical support for packaging equipment investment projects: from requirement definition and CAPEX planning to design, installation and commissioning – working closely with engineering and plant teams.
* Analyze and resolve complex packaging-related challenges across the supply chain, including customer complaint investigations, debottlenecking of packaging lines, and improving equipment reliability and cost efficiency.
* Lead initiatives to improve packaging sustainability, recyclability, cost and customer satisfaction – by applying creative design principles, validation methods, lean/continuous improvement and tamper-proof packaging strategies.
* Define and implement technical standards and best practices for packaging equipment and processes; develop SOPs and provide training and technical coaching to colleagues across procurement, logistics, engineering and manufacturing.
* Act as a global packaging expert in cross-functional and international projects – managing multiple initiatives, communicating with stakeholders, and supporting Orion’s packaging strategy and sustainability goals.
What you bring to the table:
* Bachelor’s degree in engineering, ideally in packaging engineering, mechanical engineering or process engineering, with professional experience in packaging – preferably in the chemical industry and with powder materials, bags or FIBCs.
* Strong technical knowledge of packaging components and equipment (motion control, conveyors, filling and palletizing systems) and how to integrate them into production processes.
* Solid understanding of validation methods, stability testing, warehousing/distribution challenges and regulatory frameworks (e.g. EPA, FIFRA, REACH), with the ability to apply this expertise to ensure safe, compliant and high-quality packaging.
* Proven project management skills, combined with problem-solving ability, accountability and sound decision-making – capable of managing multiple projects independently while balancing sustainability, cost and quality.
* Experience with continuous improvement approaches (Lean, Six Sigma), CAD or other design tools, and working effectively in procurement, manufacturing and matrix environments.
* Strong communication skills and a collaborative mindset, enabling you to work with colleagues across procurement, production, engineering, logistics, marketing and suppliers, as well as to coach and train stakeholders.
* Fluency in English (working language); additional languages such as German, French, Italian or Portuguese are a plus, with cultural awareness for effective collaboration in international teams.
* Willingness to travel internationally (approx. 25%) to support supplier qualification, project rollouts and on-site implementation; ability to thrive in a stand-alone global expert role with high autonomy and responsibility.
Why you'll love working at Orion:
Performance-based bonuses | 6-month sick pay supplement | Company pension plan | Additional care & accident insurance | On-site medical service | Flu vaccinations & preventive check-ups | Subsidized canteen (Cologne) or meal voucher (some other plants) | Individual development opportunities | E-learning & language training (Rosetta Stone) | Free Urban Sports Club membership | Cologne company run | €1,000 "Hire-a-Friend" referral bonus | Orion Carnival event | Free parking
Some benefits and contract details may vary depending on the location; those listed here reflect the offerings of the German entity.
Questions? We're here for you!
Christoph Schulz
Christoph.Schulz@orioncarbons.com
Recruitment agencies: Please refrain from contacting us regarding this position.