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Careers in Packaging Technology

Careers in Packaging Technology

Introduction

Packaging has evolved into a highly specialized field. Intense market competition demands that new products feature attractive packaging to meet buyer expectations for functionality and aesthetics, helping them stand out and gain recognition. Packaging includes wrapping, box packing, and bottling.

This industry is rapidly growing, with an expanding scope due to increasing packaging needs for canned and frozen foods, toiletries, tobacco products, gifts, and other items. Additionally, individuals transferring between cities in government and private sectors require their goods to be packed securely for safe transportation, highlighting the importance of packaging experts.

Examples of packaging expertise include bacteria-free fruit juices in tetra packs, milk that remains fresh for days, and tea leaves that retain flavor for months.

Course Structure/Eligibility

The premier institution offering a packaging course is the Indian Institute of Packaging (IIP) in Mumbai, established by the Government of India. IIP offers a Post Graduate (P.G.) Diploma in Packaging, along with other certificate courses and distance education programs.

The P.G. Diploma course lasts two years and is open to graduates in Science (with any two of the following subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Electronics, Microbiology, Engineering, or Technology) from a recognized university, requiring a minimum of 50% marks.

A three-month certificate program is also available for individuals with work experience in the packaging industry.

Basis of Selection

Candidates for the P.G. program are selected based on their performance in an All India Entrance Examination, which includes a written test (Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics) and an interview. Entrance tests are conducted in Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, and Delhi.

Announcement and Dates

Application forms are available in May-June for the examination held in July.

Course Fees

The P.G. program costs Rs. 5000 per semester, with hostel fees of Rs. 2000 per semester.

Major Institutions

  1. Indian Institute of Packaging, Plot E-2, MIDC Area, Chakala, Post Box-9432, Andheri (E), Mumbai-400093.
  2. Indian Institute of Packaging (Regional Centre), Block CP, Sector-V, Salt Lake City, Bidhan Nagar, Kolkata-700091.
  3. Indian Institute of Packaging (Regional Centre), B/28, 29, Flatted Factories Complex, Jhandewalan, Rani Jhansi Road, New Delhi-110055.
  4. Indian Institute of Packaging (Regional Centre), Plot No-169, Industrial Estate, Perungudi, Chennai-600096.

Employment Opportunities

Packaging technologists are employed by companies manufacturing packaging materials and systems, as well as food processing and beverage industries that rely on packaging technology to enhance shelf life and transportability.

Job Profile

Packaging experts are responsible for designing and developing suitable packaging systems, considering the material to be packed, compatibility, testing and evaluation, and environmental compliance