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Cautious optimism in the packaging job market

A sneak peak at IoPP’s Salary Survey offers insights courtesy of packaging pros from Coca-Cola North America and Schwan.

Food line
Food line

The April issue of Packaging World will feature results from the Institute of Packaging Professionals’ annual salary survey. This definitive survey will look beyond financial numbers, reporting on how the 2011 economy made an impact on packaging careers. Here’s a sneak peak from two survey respondents:

“The job market in the food packaging sector appears to be up over 12 months ago, most likely attributable to companies cutting back a bit too deeply with the economic situation and now needing to selectively bring back resources to support their business,” said Jane Chase, sr. director, packaging innovation and R&D, The Schwan Food Co. “I foresee potential strategic hiring opportunities in the future with nominal pay raise opportunities. Companies are still being cautious, but there appears to be some positive movement.”

Another perspective on the market comes from Scott Biondich, director, sparkling package development with Coca-Cola North America. He noted, "There continues to be announcements of layoffs in the packaging field as companies try to make productivity gains in difficult economic times. What makes it challenging for packaging associates out of work today is often companies are looking for individuals with very specific skills, i.e. subject matter experts, and this obviously narrows the pool of available candidates. There are always opportunities for high potential packaging associates who deliver great results.“

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