Sustainability Engineer

JOB SUMMARY

The role of the Sustainability Engineer – R&D & Compliance is to support and drive environmental initiatives across the various manufacturing operations. This role blends technical testing, materials research, and regulatory documentation with a focus on developing sustainable packaging solutions. The position requires the candidate to be detail-oriented, passionate about sustainability, and eager to contribute to meaningful improvements in materials, compliance, and company-wide eco-conscious programs.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conduct performance testing of transport packaging solutions in accordance with ISTA, ASTM, or customer-specific standards.
• Inspect and test raw materials and packaging components to ensure compliance with ISO 9001 and internal quality standards.
• Research and evaluate sustainable materials suitable for foam-based packaging applications.
• Collaborate with Engineering to support R&D initiatives focused on developing functional and environmentally friendly packaging solutions.
• Collect, maintain, and manage supplier environmental compliance documentation (e.g., REACH, RoHS).
• Complete customer-provided sustainability surveys and support environmental reporting needs.
• Analyze and report on internal sustainability initiatives, including recycled water usage and scrap material reuse programs.
• Monitor and communicate industry trends related to sustainable packaging materials, technologies, and regulations.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in Sustainability, Environmental Science, Engineering, Packaging Science, or a related field.
• Entry-level candidates with relevant coursework or experience will be considered.
• Basic knowledge of ISTA, ASTM, or ISO standards is a plus.
• Strong communication and organizational skills for coordinating with cross-functional teams and suppliers.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint) for documentation, data analysis, and reporting.
• Interest in sustainability and environmental responsibility within a manufacturing setting.

SKILLS (NICE TO HAVE)

• Exposure to the packaging or foam plastics industry.
• Familiarity with environmental reporting or sustainability metrics.
• Understanding of regulatory standards such as REACH, RoHS, or ISO 14001.
• Experience supporting product testing or R&D projects.

COMPANY DESCRIPTION

Houston Foam Plastics is an innovative company providing foam plastics solutions into a variety of market applications. Packaging and Construction are the two market segments that define the company. We have in-depth knowledge and experience fabricating polyethylene, polypropylene, polyisocyanurate, EPDM and polystyrene foam plastics.