R&D Innovation Engineer

R&D Innovation Engineer

Location: Batavia, OH (On-site)

Build Your Career with an Industry Leader

MCC is the global leader in premium labels, helping brands stand out and inspire positive consumer experiences. With over a century of printing expertise, we're focused on the future-developing consumer-driven innovations and sustainable packaging solutions.

We are seeking a curious, driven, and detail-oriented Innovation Engineer to join our Corporate Research & Development team. The role offers a unique opportunity to work alongside seasoned scientists and cross-functional teams to shape the future of label design and construction. As a key contributor to our innovation pipeline, you'll help bring new ideas to life-from concept to commercialization-while developing your technical expertise and building a strong foundation in scientific documentation and product development.

Key Responsibilities

• Design & Develop: Contribute to the design and execution of experimental trials, pilot programs, test methods, and product development projects across label technology platforms.
• Document & Communicate: Maintain clear and thorough records of experimental designs, trial outcomes, and technology/process documentation. Prepare reports that translate technical findings into actionable insights.
• Explore & Innovate: Investigate emerging technologies, materials, and methods to uncover new opportunities for MCC and our customers.
• Manage & Prioritize: Juggle multiple projects using a StageGate approach, ensuring timely progress from ideation through commercialization.
• Collaborate & Create: Partner with Strategic Marketing, Sales, Operations, Suppliers, and Customers to support and lead R&D initiatives that drive customer-centric innovation.
• Engage & Influence: Present findings and updates to senior leadership and cross-functional teams, contributing to strategic decision-making.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Packaging Science or related discipline strongly preferred (e.g., Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering).
• Innovative mindset - Curiosity, analytical thinking, and creative problem-solving skills.
• Detail-oriented with a knack for documenting processes, trials, and technical learnings.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical audiences.
• Collaborative mindset with a track record of building cross-functional relationships.

• Self-starter with strong sense of urgency - proactively follows up and ensures follow-through to drive results and maintain momentum.
• Ability to lead/manage multiple projects across a small team of technical professionals.

• Experience in packaging value chain or food & beverage manufacturing is a plus.

• Industry background and/or strong understanding of inks, adhesives, coatings, solvent lamination, gravure and flexography printing, UV curable coatings, converting, die-cutting, film/substrates, labels/packaging and related materials is a plus.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and comfort with data analysis and reporting.
• Willingness to travel up to 20% for customer visits, vendor meetings, and trial support.