Sustainability and Packaging Analyst

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in North Carolina.

📋 Description

• Perform in-depth primary and secondary research on market, technology, regulatory, and sustainability trends within the CPG and food sectors.

• Spearhead and assist in foresight and horizon-scanning initiatives.

• Create scenarios to guide strategic planning.

• Identify and evaluate emerging technologies, partners, and business models across academia, startups, and the industry.

• Assess the feasibility, scalability, and potential impact of new technologies and business models.

• Provide research that supports clients’ circular economy initiatives, including packaging, materials recovery, waste valorization, and supply chain resilience.

• Offer guidance on pathways for bringing emerging technologies from the lab to market.

• Consolidate complex information into reports, presentations, and workshops for both technical and non-technical audiences.

• Utilize artificial intelligence tools judiciously while ensuring scientific integrity, quality, and human validation of results.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams on an international scale.

• Oversee tasks, timelines, and client communications effectively.

• Organize meetings and present interim and final results to clients and stakeholders.

• Foster a positive and inclusive team culture, aligning with RTI’s mission and values.

⛳️ Requirements

• 1–2 years of experience in sustainability, circular economy, or packaging-related fields.

• Bachelor’s degree in science or engineering, complemented by interdisciplinary R&D experience.

• Business insight and knowledge of innovation management, technology transfer/commercialization, or consulting.

• Excellent scientific communication skills tailored for both technical and non-technical audiences.

• Strong analytical and time-management capabilities.

• Willingness and ability to expand knowledge beyond core fields and quickly learn new scientific or technical areas.

• Proven ability to collaborate effectively with a diverse range of stakeholders.

• Detail-oriented, self-motivated, and comfortable working both independently and as part of a team.

• Proficient in MS Office (PowerPoint, Excel, Word) and collaboration tools like Teams.

• Enthusiasm for learning and promoting responsible applications of artificial intelligence technologies in scientific research.

• Preferred: experience in recycling, food science, or chemical formulation, particularly for household and personal care products.

• Preferred: degrees in chemistry, materials or polymer science, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, or biomolecular engineering.

• Preferred: certificates or degrees related to recycling or waste management.

• Preferred: familiarity with innovation consulting, foresight methods, horizon scanning, or technology scouting.

• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.

• Must not require current or future sponsorship for employment visa status.

• Cover letter is required.

🏝️ Benefits

• Competitive base salary.

• Generous paid time off policy.

• Merit-based annual increases.

• Bonus opportunities available.

• Comprehensive recognition program.

• Competitive insurance offerings including health, dental, life, and both short-term and long-term disability.

• Retirement savings program such as a 401(k) plan.

• Paid parental leave for all parents.

• Financial assistance for adoption expenses or infertility treatments.

• Financial reimbursement for educational and developmental opportunities.

• Employee assistance program.

• Additional offerings to promote a healthy work-life balance.

• Telework options available.

• Hybrid work arrangements offered.