Job Description

Job Title: Assistant Manager - Packaging Development

Location:

Chennai

Experience:

8+ years

Employment Type:

Full-time

About The Indus Valley

At The Indus Valley, our mission is simple yet powerful:

make every Indian kitchen healthier and safer.

We are India's fastest-growing D2C cookware brand, loved by millions for our toxin-free, sustainable, and innovative products. We believe packaging is not just a box--it's the first touchpoint of trust with our customers and a key lever for sustainability.

Role Overview

We are seeking a detail-oriented and innovative

Assistant Manager - Packaging Development

to lead the design, validation, and execution of world-class packaging solutions. The role demands a strong technical background, eco-friendly mindset, and the ability to balance

innovation, cost, and compliance

. This is a high-impact role, driving packaging excellence across product categories while contributing to our larger sustainability goals.

Key Responsibilities

Packaging Design & Innovation

Develop innovative, customer-friendly packaging for new and existing product lines. Work across multiple materials: corrugated boxes, multilayer films, wooden pallets, ESD foams, PET straps, and eco-friendly alternatives. Ensure packaging aesthetics and functionality reflect our brand promise of

health, safety, and trust

.

Sustainability & Process Excellence

Drive sustainable packaging initiatives, reducing material waste and carbon footprint. Identify cost optimization opportunities without compromising safety and quality. Continuously improve packaging processes, efficiency, and recyclability.

Testing & Validation

Conduct rigorous packaging tests (ASTM, ISTA 2A/3A, ISO 11607, etc.) to ensure durability, safety, and compliance. Lead root cause analysis and implement corrective actions on packaging failures.

Vendor & Cross-Functional Collaboration

Handle packaging vendors directly--from design to launch--ensuring timelines and quality. Partner with suppliers to co-develop new materials and drive quality improvements. Work closely with R&D, Production, Procurement, and Quality teams to ensure packaging aligns with business and operational needs.

Documentation & Compliance

Maintain updated packaging specifications, inspection protocols, and validation reports. Ensure compliance with national and international packaging standards.

Oversee packaging compliance with Legal Metrology Act requirements for cookware, pressure cookers, and other regulated products.

Qualifications & Skills

Education

B.E/B.Tech in Mechanical / Packaging / Printing Technology (Mandatory) M.E/M.Tech in Packaging / Printing Technology (Preferred)

Experience

8+ years in packaging development, testing, and validation.

Mandatory:

Prior experience in

kitchenware or appliance industry

.

Technical Skills

Strong knowledge of ISO, ASTM, ISTA packaging standards. Proficiency in MS Office, AutoCAD, SolidWorks. Familiarity with eco-friendly materials, recyclability, and cost optimization techniques.

Knowledge of Legal Metrology compliance related to cookware, pressure cookers, and other regulated products.

Soft Skills & Attributes

Individual performer with the ability to

drive results independently

. Strong communication, vendor management, and project leadership skills.

Team player

with a bias for action, thriving in a fast-paced, high-agency environment. Open to feedback, adaptable, and comfortable working in a lean team setup. Analytical and problem-solving mindset with high ownership.

Why Join Us?

Impact:

Shape the future of sustainable packaging for one of India's most loved D2C brands.

Innovation:

Work with cutting-edge packaging technologies and eco-friendly solutions.

Growth:

Be part of a fast-scaling startup culture that values ownership, accountability, and continuous learning.

Rewards:

Competitive salary, performance-linked incentives, and professional development opportunities.

At The Indus Valley, integrity, health, and innovation are not just values--they are our way of life. If you're driven to make a difference in how India experiences safe and sustainable packaging, we'd love to have you on board.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: Up to ?800,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Internet reimbursement Paid sick time Paid time off Provident Fund
Location:

Perungudi, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (Preferred)
Work Location: In person