Packaging Technologist

at  New England Seafood International

Who is New England Seafood International?
New England Seafood International (NESI) was established in 1991 and is an importer and processor of premium fresh and frozen sustainable fish and seafood. NESI employs circa 650 people across two sites in the UK and imports a wide range of wild and farmed fish and shellfish from all around the world. We are part of the Sealaska Corporation, an Alaska Native corporation formed in 1971 and which is owned by 22,000 Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian shareholders, who are all bloodline descendants of the first settlers to the Americas.
Our vision is to “show people how to enjoy fish every day” and we pride ourselves on our supply chain integrity, sustainable sourcing and high-quality product. Our values run through our business and are Respect, Customer Care, By Learning We Grow, Team Spirit and Integrity.
Role Details
Title: Packaging Operative
Reports to: Head of Development
Location: Chessington or Grimsby site
Salary: £40,000 - £45,000 per annum DOE
Shift pattern: Monday - Friday
Hours: 8:00apm - 5:00pm
What is the purpose of this role?
This is an important role which has been created as part of NESI business plan to bring in designated Packaging expertise that can drive the packaging strategy forward in line with environmental and sustainable packaging materials, support in launching the next generation of packaging format/s and materials.

THE KEY PURPOSE OF THE ROLE IS:

• To share knowledge and expertise about packaging concepts, technologies, and materials.
• To work closely with the cross functional teams to deliver continuous improvements to our operations.
• To assist and support new products development and new concepts that will enable NESI to implement innovative packaging formats that brings value, quality, sustainability, and cost efficiency.
• To support our procurement team on selection, trialling and approval of alternative materials and suppliers.
• To support Technical & Operational teams in quality checks, reports and claims whenever is required.
• To provide the expertise to technical team in preparation of packaging specs, quality standards and Safe Food 360.
• To assist Operations and Finance teams in setting the correct BOMs.
• To engage and work with new packaging materials and solutions with our Customers, Suppliers and other Partners.
• To ensure that we meet the packaging quality and standards in line with the Government and Customers sustainability and quality guidelines.

WHAT IS THIS ROLE ACCOUNTABLE FOR:

• Support Production and Engineering to achieve lines cost efficiency and waste reductions.
• Support Packaging procurement Manager in finding, trialling and approving alternative materials and suppliers for driving cost efficiencies and contingencies. Includes trials of the packaging materials and preparation of reports for the business.
• Support Technical team on incoming quality checks, reports and claims for packaging materials whenever is required.
• Support Technical team in preparation of packaging material specifications and standards.
• Support Operations and Finance teams in creating the correct BOMs for the packaging area.
• Provide functional expertise and knowhow to new development projects; work closely with our cross functional teams to provide sustainable and long-term packaging solutions to our products.
• Support the communication with NESI customers, equipment and packaging suppliers, environmental organisations (WRAP, OPRL, UK Plastic Pact, etc.).
• Support in the delivery of our NESI Packaging Strategy

Where does this role sit in the structure?

• Reports to Head of NPD
• Works closely with the NPD, Senior Packaging Buyer, Marketing and Operation teams