Packaging Specialist (Washington)

FUNCTIONAL PURPOSE:

Supports the corporate strategies and objectives of the expedited packaging program. Works with internal and external customers on Expedited package issues such as design/development, contract specification, quality control, cost analysis, cost reductions printing/supply schedules, and fulfillment.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Prepares highly complex and technical contract specifications for standard, specialized, and customized packaging. Maintains files in accordance with postal policies and procedures; prepares modifications to existing packaging contracts.

2. Develops, interprets, and administers quality control tests on product packaging to ensure adherence to contract and industry specifications; addresses and resolves quality deficiencies with printer/suppliers.

3. Conducts and supports the negotiation of pricing, timely delivery changes in contract requirements and other printer/supplier contract issues.

4. Reviews and evaluates packaging proposals and ideas; makes recommendations that are cost effective while responding to customer requirements.

5. Designs and coordinates customized packaging for large customers with internal stakeholders.

6. Conducts reviews of Postal customers fulfillment operations to include floor layout, erector equipment, and feed systems. Meets and communicates with Postal customers and printers/suppliers on a regular basis regarding packaging requirements to understand and meet customer and organizational needs.

7. Develops creative and cost-effective solutions in response to a wide array of packaging and printing request/proposals incorporating knowledge of packaging materials, substrates, printer/supplier operations, and contract elements.

8. Plans and coordinates printer/supplier production and shipping schedules with fulfillment center operations and customer and organizational requirements, resolving unusual issues, situations, and problems.

SUPERVISION:

Manager of unit to which assigned

REQUIREMENTS:

Knowledge of Postal Service and commercial contracting procedures and regulations (including expedited packaging contracts and file administration) sufficient to negotiate pricing, timely delivery, and changing package requirements. Knowledge of the package industry to include material substrates, standards, manufacturing equipment, methods of production and printer/supplier sources sufficient to make recommendations to management on all aspects of the packaging program. Ability to design and customize Postal Service packaging products and meet customer and USPS requirements. Ability to develop, interpret and administer appropriate quality control plans for all packaging. Ability to plan and coordinate printer/supplier production schedules with fulfillment center operations and customer requirements Ability to communicate verbally and in writing with a wide variety of internal and external customers on a wide array of packaging topics to include complex and technical packaging contract specifications.