Research Associate - Packaging Laboratory Manager

Job Description

• The Center for Packaging and Unit Load Design is looking for a person with strong leadership skills and technical knowledge on package and pallet evaluation techniques.
• The individual will be responsible for:
• Coordinating deliveries and shipment of materials.
• Evaluating packages, pallets, and unit loads based on ISTA, ASTM, AIAG, ISO standards, and custom testing protocols.
• Developing and executing test setups and experimental designs.
• Coordinating efforts with laboratory personnel, ensuring testing is completed in a timely manner.
• Conducting data analysis and writing final reports.
• Presenting research and testing information in industry and/or scientific conferences.
• Coordinating equipment maintenance, laboratory accreditations, and training.
• Teaching an experiential learning class.

Required Qualifications

• Master’s degree in forest products or industrial engineering or related fields.
• Demonstrated experience with pallet or packaging design and testing.
• Experience with analyzing testing data and writing testing reports.
• Demonstrated experience with lean manufacturing and continuous improvement.
• Experience in conducting and coordinating standardized testing related to packaging, pallets, and unit loads
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability in technical writing.
• Ability to lift, carry, move 50 lbs.
• Valid Virginia Driver’s license.
• Ability to obtain and maintain VT fork lift driver certification for all powered industrial trucks.
• Ability to stand/walk, traverse on uneven terrain and in conditioned and unconditioned spaces for long periods.

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience with interacting with and attracting new clients.
• Experience with implementing and monitoring lab safety protocols.
• Experience with using data collection and analysis using Labview or similar software.
• Experience with statistical methods and tools such as JMP or Minitab.

 

Overtime Status

Exempt: Not eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

Commensurate With Experience

Hours Per Week

40

Review Date

November 10, 2025

Additional Information

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance.  These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.

Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact (Angela Riegel) at (ariegel@vt.edu) during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.