Senior R&D Manager - Packaging (Memphis, TN)

Company: Smith & Nephew
Location: Memphis
Posted on: April 2, 2026

Job Description:

Life. Unlimited. At SmithNephew we design and manufacture technology that takes the limits off living. Join us in a highly influential role where you will shape packaging innovation across our Orthopaedic medical device portfolio. This is an opportunity to lead a talented team, work cross functionally on critical programs and elevate the packaging strategy for products that make a meaningful impact for patients around the world. What will you be doing? Lead the design, development, and implementation of packaging solutions across product lines, ensuring all designs meet product and user needs requirements including labelling and sterilization Oversee all packaging engineering activities related to new product development and guide product teams on cost effective, high quality compliant packaging options Provide ongoing engineering support for packaging on existing products and develop packaging systems and components for new and current devices Work directly with R&D, Operations, Quality, Marketing, and Regulatory management on packaging development initiations. Partner with Regulatory Affairs and Quality Assurance to define requirements for package inserts, testing, labelling and technical documentation Review and approve packaging and labelling specifications while ensuring alignment with quality system expectations Review and approve packaging protocols, reports and related technical documents. Mentor, coach and develop junior engineers and technicians to build technical strength within the team Support Operations in optimizing packaging related equipment and processes in our manufacturing facilities Lead and support packaging sustainability initiatives Provide recommendations at technical reviews and collaborate across R&D, Operations, Quality, and Product Management to deliver effective packaging solutions. What will you need to be successful? A BS in Packaging Engineering, Packaging Science or a related design or science field with seven years of related experience, or an MS in Engineering or Science with five years of related experience At least three years of experience managing direct and indirect reports in a technical environment Strong competency in packaging design, analytical problem solving Strong knowledge of ISTA, ASTM, and ISO packaging test methods and requirements. Competency of BS EN ISO 11607-1 and 2. Understanding of packaging manufacturing techniques and the ability to work autonomously while influencing senior stakeholders You Unlimited. We believe in creating the greatest good for society. Our strongest investments are in our people and the patients we serve. Inclusion and Belonging- Committed to Welcoming, Celebrating and Thriving on Inclusion and Belonging, Learn more about Employee Inclusion Groups on our website ( https://www.smith-nephew.com/ ). Your Future: 401k Matching Program, 401k Plus Program, Discounted Stock Purchase Plan, Tuition Reimbursement Work/Life Balance: Flexible Personal/Vacation Time Off, Paid Holidays, Flex Holidays, Paid Community Service Day Your Wellbeing: Medical, Dental, Vision, Health Savings Account (Employer Contribution of $500 annually), Employee Assistance Program, Parental Leave, Fertility and Adoption Assistance Program Flexibility: Hybrid Work Model (For most professional roles) Training: Hands-On, Team-Customized, Mentorship Extra Perks: Discounts on fitness clubs, travel and more! SmithNephew provides equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability. Stay connected by joining our Talent Community . We're more than just a company - we're a community! Follow us on L inkedIn to see how we support and empower our employees and patients every day. Check us out on Glassdoor for a glimpse behind the scenes and a sneak peek into You . Unlimited . , life, culture, and benefits at SN. Explore our website and learn more about our mission, our team, and the opportunities we offer.

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