Packaging Principal Engineer II

Shape the Future of Packaging Innovation

Are you a packaging expert who thrives at the intersection of innovation, technology, commercialization, and business strategy? Altria is seeking a Packaging Principal Engineer II to serve as a recognized enterprise leader responsible for driving the future of packaging across our portfolio of products. This position is located in Richmond, VA with a Hybrid work schedule, relocation benefits will be provided.

In this highly visible role, you will influence packaging strategy, guide next-generation technology development, and lead initiatives that enhance consumer experiences, improve operational performance, and deliver competitive advantage. You'll partner with senior leaders, product developers, manufacturing teams, suppliers, and external partners to solve complex challenges and bring innovative packaging solutions from concept to commercialization.

This is an opportunity to make a lasting impact by defining the future of packaging capabilities, sustainability initiatives, manufacturing technologies, and product innovation across the enterprise.

What You'll Do

Lead Enterprise Packaging Strategy

• Develop long-term packaging technology roadmaps aligned with business and innovation objectives.
• Identify emerging materials, manufacturing technologies, sustainability advancements, and consumer trends that can shape future product platforms.
• Influence strategic investments, supplier partnerships, and capability development opportunities across the organization.
• Anticipate future packaging challenges and create innovative solutions that support business growth.

Drive Packaging Innovation & Commercialization

• Lead the development of breakthrough packaging solutions supporting new and next-generation products.
• Guide packaging architecture, materials selection, graphics implementation, and manufacturing integration.
• Ensure packaging solutions are scalable, manufacturable, consumer-focused, and commercially successful.
• Partner with cross-functional teams to accelerate innovation and speed-to-market.

Serve as a Technical Thought Leader

• Serve as a trusted technical leader and packaging specialist, providing guidance on advanced packaging technologies and best practices.
• Establish engineering standards, development methodologies, and packaging design principles.
• Lead the resolution of complex technical challenges with significant business impact.
• Mentor and coach technical talent across engineering, manufacturing, quality, and product development organizations.

Influence Enterprise Decisions

• Collaborate with Product Development, Manufacturing, Quality, Regulatory Affairs, Supply Chain, Procurement, Brand Management, and external partners.
• Provide data-driven recommendations to senior leadership regarding packaging technologies, investments, risk assessments, and commercialization strategies.
• Build strategic relationships with suppliers and technology partners to expand organizational capabilities.

Advance Sustainability & Compliance

• Lead packaging strategies that support sustainability goals and responsible innovation.
• Provide expertise related to FDA, environmental, transportation, labeling, and consumer product regulations.
• Ensure packaging systems meet regulatory requirements throughout the product lifecycle.

What We're Looking For

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Packaging Science, Materials Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Design, or a related technical field.
• 12+ years of progressive experience in packaging engineering, packaging innovation, and commercialization.
• Proven success leading complex packaging initiatives from concept through launch.
• Deep expertise in packaging materials, manufacturing technologies, packaging systems design, and commercialization.
• Experience influencing technical direction and business strategy across organizations.
• Demonstrated ability to lead large-scale, cross-functional initiatives without direct authority.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Packaging Science, Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
• Professional Engineer (PE) certification or equivalent credential.
• Experience in FDA-regulated or other highly regulated consumer product industries.
• Experience supporting global packaging initiatives and international commercialization.
• Track record of developing enterprise standards, technical frameworks, patents, publications, or industry-leading innovations.

The starting salary is based on but not limited to experience, knowledge, and qualifications in determining compensation decisions. The Salary Range for this position is: $132,500.00 - $202,100.00.    

Why You’ll Love Building Your Career at Altria

At Altria, we believe a great career starts with feeling supported — both at work and in life. Here’s what you’ll find here:

• Work where life works for you — with flexible and remote options that fit your world, not the other way around.
• Own your time — start with 15 days of paid time off, 13 paid holidays, 2 floating holiday days, and a 37.5-hour workweek so you can recharge and live fully
• A place where you belong — where your ideas are welcomed, your growth is encouraged, and your impact is real
• Get recognized for your work – annual merit increases and performance bonus
• A future you can count on — 401(k) matching from day one; plus Deferred Profit Sharing, an annual company contribution in an amount equal to 13%-17% of your base salary
• Help with your goals — get help with student loan repayment assistance, attend a conference, or gain a new certification with professional development stipends
• Support for what matters most — comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family
• Celebrating your milestones — paid parental and bonding leave for life’s biggest moments.
• Wellness that goes beyond work — programs that care for your whole well-being at whatever stage you are in your life
• A culture that gives back — paid volunteer days and a shared commitment to making a difference

At Altria, we offer more than benefits — we offer a career that fits your life, rewards your ambition, and celebrates your impact.

This position is not eligible for sponsorship.