Associate R&D Specialist Packaging - Material Characterization

The company seeks an Associate R&D Specialist in Packaging Material Characterization based in Orbe, Switzerland, to support the NPTC Coffee R&D team in defining packaging properties and accelerating development through digital tools.

This position sits within the Nestlé Product Technology Centre Coffee, an R&D unit focused on creating and launching coffee and beverage innovations. The specialist will assist Packaging Project Managers by analyzing materials to understand how capsules, pods, and machines interact, while also developing digital tools to speed up development workflows.

Responsibilities

• Apply material characterization techniques to establish packaging specifications for capsules and pods.
• Collaborate with the NPTC methods team to suggest new material, design, and characterization concepts.
• Create, record, and distribute material knowledge throughout packaging teams.
• Drive the digital transformation of characterization processes to enhance development speed.
• Design experiments to ensure project deliverables are met.
• Assist Project Managers in achieving results that align with project schedules.
• Communicate methods and findings clearly to stakeholders and visitors.
• Engage with internal and external networks to protect intellectual property, share knowledge, and adhere to SHE guidelines.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in Material Science or Mechanical Engineering.
• Demonstrated experience working in an R&D setting.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD and Finite Element Analysis tools.
• Strong understanding of mechanical and thermal material properties.
• Digitally savvy, including mastery of AI tools and ability to program in Python.
• Strong innovation mindset.
• Excellent problem‑solving and solution‑oriented approach.
• Good command of English (spoken and written).

About the company

Nestlé fosters a diverse, friendly, supportive, and collaborative environment that creates positive disruption and embraces innovation. The company is committed to the accessibility of its recruitment process and supports candidates requiring adaptations. Nestlé aims to hire friendly, respectful, inspiring people who care about the people’s lives they touch every single day.

• Nestlé fosters a diverse, friendly, supportive, and collaborative environment that creates positive disruption and embraces innovation.
• The company is committed to the accessibility of its recruitment process and supports candidates requiring adaptations.
• Nestlé aims to hire friendly, respectful, inspiring people who care about the people’s lives they touch every single day.