Senior Sustainable Packaging Engineer Job Vacancy in Kawambwa, Zambia – Manufacturing / Consumer Goods
Job Description
Position: Senior Sustainable Packaging Engineer
Company: Unilever Zambia
Location: Kawambwa, Zambia
Experience: 5+ years in packaging engineering, sustainability, or related fields
Education: Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering or related discipline
Employment Type: Full-time
Industry: Manufacturing / Consumer Goods
Department: Research & Development – Sustainable Packaging
Salary: SSP 150,000 – 250,000 per month
Vacancies:1
Company Overview
Unilever Zambia is a leading multinational consumer goods company with a strong commitment to sustainable growth and community development across the Zambian market. Operating for over three decades, Unilever delivers trusted brands in food, home care, and personal care while championing responsible sourcing, waste reduction, and climate‑positive initiatives. The company’s Zambia operations are headquartered in Lusaka but maintain a network of regional hubs, including a strategic production facility near Kawambwa that serves the Southern Province and neighboring countries. Unilever’s vision aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and the organization actively invests in local talent, innovative research, and partnerships that drive economic empowerment and environmental stewardship. As part of its ongoing transformation, Unilever seeks to redesign packaging solutions that minimise plastic use, enhance recyclability, and meet the evolving expectations of Zambian consumers who value eco‑friendly products. This commitment creates a fertile environment for professionals passionate about sustainable engineering and offers a platform to influence industry standards across Zambia Jobs, Jobs in Zambia, and the broader African market.
Job Overview
The Senior Sustainable Packaging Engineer will lead the design, development, and implementation of next‑generation packaging solutions for Unilever’s portfolio of household brands in Zambia. Reporting to the Head of R&D – Sustainable Packaging, the role will collaborate with cross‑functional teams including product development, supply chain, marketing, and external partners to create packaging that reduces environmental impact while maintaining product integrity and cost efficiency. The engineer will be responsible for conducting life‑cycle assessments, selecting renewable materials, and ensuring compliance with local regulations and global sustainability standards. This position offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of consumer goods packaging in Zambia, contribute to the company’s climate‑positive targets, and enhance Unilever’s reputation as a leader in sustainable innovation. The role is central to Unilever’s strategy to deliver career opportunities in Zambia and to attract top talent seeking meaningful employment in Zambia.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the end‑to‑end development of sustainable packaging concepts for new and existing products.
- Perform comprehensive life‑cycle assessments (LCA) to quantify environmental impacts and identify improvement opportunities.
- Collaborate with material suppliers to source recyclable, biodegradable, or compostable materials that meet performance criteria.
- Work closely with the supply chain team to ensure packaging designs are compatible with existing logistics and manufacturing processes.
- Develop and maintain technical specifications, testing protocols, and documentation for regulatory compliance.
- Drive cost‑benefit analyses to balance sustainability goals with commercial viability.
- Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance on sustainable design principles.
- Represent Unilever at industry forums, sustainability conferences, and stakeholder meetings to showcase innovative packaging solutions.
Required Skills
- Strong knowledge of polymer science, material properties, and recycling technologies.
- Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) and packaging simulation tools.
- Experience conducting life‑cycle assessments and interpreting LCA results.
- Excellent project management skills with the ability to lead cross‑functional teams.
- Analytical mindset with strong problem‑solving capabilities.
- Effective communication skills for presenting technical concepts to non‑technical audiences.
- Familiarity with Zambian packaging regulations and international standards such as ISO 14021.
Education
A Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field is required. A Master’s degree or professional certification in Sustainable Design, Environmental Engineering, or a similar discipline is highly desirable.
Experience
Minimum of five years of hands‑on experience in packaging engineering, preferably within the consumer goods sector. Demonstrated track record of delivering sustainable packaging projects from concept through commercial launch is essential. Experience working in emerging markets, particularly in Africa, will be considered an advantage.
Salary
The successful candidate will receive a competitive salary ranging from SSP 150,000 to SSP 250,000 per month, commensurate with experience and qualifications. The compensation package includes performance‑based bonuses, health insurance, and a pension scheme.
Benefits
- Comprehensive medical and dental coverage.
- Retirement savings plan with employer contributions.
- Generous paid leave, including annual, sick, and parental leave.
- Employee assistance program and wellness initiatives.
- Opportunities for international assignments and cross‑regional collaboration.
Training
- Access to Unilever’s global learning platform for continuous professional development.
- Specialised workshops on sustainable materials, circular economy, and green engineering.
- Mentorship programmes with senior leaders in R&D and sustainability.
Working Environment
Based in Kawambwa, the role offers a modern office setting with state‑of‑the‑art laboratory facilities for material testing. Employees benefit from a collaborative culture that encourages innovation, diversity, and inclusion. Unilever promotes a healthy work‑life balance and supports flexible working arrangements where operationally feasible.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit their updated CV and a cover letter outlining their relevant experience through Unilever’s online career portal. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be invited to a virtual interview followed by an on‑site assessment at the Kawambwa facility.
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Equal Opportunity Statement
Unilever Zambia is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of race, gender, disability, religion, or sexual orientation. Our recruitment practices are designed to ensure fairness and transparency, providing all qualified applicants with an equal chance to succeed.
