The Company
kp is a globally recognised leader in the packaging and specialty film industry, renowned for its unwavering commitment to sustainability and innovation. The need to act on climate change has never been clearer so we incorporate sustainability into everything we do by #InvestingInBetter - creating innovative products that enhance product protection, shelf life and contribute to reducing the overall carbon footprint.
At kp, we are passionate about ensuring our customers' satisfaction, and we strive to achieve this goal by focusing all our efforts on meeting their evolving needs. Our dedication to drive a positive change in the packaging industry with a focus on quality and sustainability has earned us a reputation as a trusted partner for businesses worldwide.
The Technical Engineer will be responsible for planning, executing, and analyzing extrusion & thermoforming trials at the iCenter in Bern. This hands-on role supports innovation and product development by operating equipment such as but not limited to lab scale extruder, coater, thermoformer and various analytical equipment, conducting experiments, and collaborating closely with internal teams and external customers. The ideal candidate combines strong technical expertise with excellent communication skills and a customer-centric mindset.
Tasks and responsibilities:
* Plan, set up, and conduct extrusion, thermoforming & coating trials on pilot-scale equipment.
* Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot extrusion machinery, thermoforming equipment and auxiliary systems.
* Collaborate with innovation engineers, product line management, and commercial teams to translate customer needs into technical solutions.
* Support innovation engineers on work packages as part of the overall innovation projects.
* Contribute to the development and optimization of extrusion processes and formulations.
* Support customer visits and technical discussions during trials, acting as a key technical contact.
* Analyze trial data, document results, and prepare technical reports and presentations.
* Ensure safe operation and compliance with internal standards and procedures.
* Maintain lab and equipment readiness, including calibration, cleaning, and preventive maintenance.
* Support training and onboarding of colleagues and visitors primarily on extrusion equipment and safety protocols.
* Manage transactions such as purchase orders and/or invoices for customers paying for iCenter services.
Who we are looking for:
You might be a match with a Bachelor´s degree in Mechanical Engineering/Polymer Engineering or alternatively, with a completed technical apprenticeship and several years of relevant experiences. Most important to us is a hands-on mentality with strong communicational skills and the "hunger" for engaging with customers, suppliers and internal stakeholders.
Requirements & Nice-to-Have:
* Solid understanding of various polymer processing technologies with special focus on multilayer film & sheet extrusion.
* Understanding of extrusion die design, extrusion screw geometry, feed block structure and its correlation to development of multi-layer extruded structures.
* Understanding of polymers rheology & structure property relationship along with working knowledge of various polymers but hands on experience with polyethylene, polypropylene and polyesters.
* Knowledge or willingness to learn conversion technologies such as thermoforming & coating.
* Understanding of product development process transitioning from concept, lab, pilot to commercial scale.
* Good project management skills.
* German native or bilingual.
* Fluent English skills required (oral and written).
* Proficient in Microsoft Office – Ability to Enter and Interpret Data in Excel and Write Project Reports in Word.
* Knowledge of various design software such as solid works, Cad Cam a plus.
* Understanding of regulatory and ISO/EU systems a plus.
* Background in Pharma/Medical Device Packaging a plus.
* Willingness to travel occasionally for customer support or training.
What we are offering:
* A modern, highly innovative workplace at our iCenter in Bern, Switzerland
* A competitve salary + annual bonus
* Various local benefits
* A global team with team members in Bern, Germany and USA and internal collaboration with global colleagues.
Apply Now
If you are determined, thrive in a fast-paced environment with high levels of accountability and focus, then we'd love to meet you Please apply using the link below.
At kp, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion is vital to our global success. We welcome applicants from all identities, ideas, perspectives and experiences and encourage people from underrepresented backgrounds to apply. We aim to create an inclusive culture where our employees feel empowered to play to their strengths and see themselves reflected in the organization without regard to race, gender, religion, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, sexual preference, marital status, or inclusion in any other protected class.
***Please be aware of recruitment scams. Klöckner Pentaplast will never ask candidates to provide payments, bank details, national identification numbers, or any other sensitive personal information during the interview process. If you're unsure about the legitimacy of a communication claiming to be from kp, please contact us directly