Packaging Modeling & Simulation Senior Technologist

Do you want to shape the future of packaging through advanced modelling, simulation, and data-driven innovation? Join us as our next Packaging Modeling & Simulation Senior Technologist! In this global role, you will develop predictive tools that improve packaging performance throughout its lifecycle, from manufacturing and transportation to consumer use and recycling. Your work will enable faster, more sustainable packaging development while strengthening modelling and simulation capabilities across Danone’s global R&I community.

• Netherlands
• Utrecht
• On-site

Utrecht/Hybrid

As Packaging Modeling & Simulation Senior Technologist, you will lead the development and validation of numerical models that predict the mechanical and consumer performance of packaging. Working closely with Danone’s Advanced Technology Packaging Modelling & Simulation team in France, you will translate complex packaging challenges into robust scientific models and practical solutions. You will contribute to projects across Danone’s product categories and regions, helping teams make better development decisions, reduce physical testing, and accelerate packaging innovation.

You will also play an important capability-building role by developing common simulation methodologies, sharing knowledge, and enabling colleagues to use modelling, numerical simulation, and artificial intelligence more effectively.

About the job

Your key responsibilities will be to:

• Develop predictive packaging models: Create and validate advanced numerical models that assess packaging performance across its lifecycle, including manufacturing, transportation, consumer use, and recycling.

• Solve strategic packaging challenges: Partner with global and regional Research and Innovation teams to identify where modelling and simulation can improve decision-making, reduce development cycles, and enable better packaging solutions.

• Provide scientific leadership: Guide the scientific approach, methodology, and validation of numerical models, ensuring that solutions are robust, scalable, and relevant to business needs.

• Build organisational capability: Develop training materials, share expertise, and establish consistent methodologies to strengthen modelling, simulation, and AI capabilities across Danone.

• Grow the innovation ecosystem: Build partnerships with universities, technology providers, suppliers, and internal experts to advance end-to-end packaging simulation capabilities.

You will report to Romain Savajano, R&I Adv Techno Pack Modelling & Simulation Team Leader.

About you

You are a modelling and simulation expert who enjoys turning complex scientific questions into practical solutions. You combine deep technical knowledge with strong communication skills and are comfortable influencing, teaching, and collaborating across disciplines, cultures, and levels of technical expertise.

We recognise that relevant expertise can be developed through different career paths. If you meet most of the requirements and believe your experience could add value, we encourage you to apply.

To be successful in this role, you must have:

• Advanced degree, such as a PhD or equivalent research and industry experience, in mechanical engineering, physics, materials science, computational engineering, or another relevant scientific field.
• 8-10 years of industry experience in numerical modelling and simulation, such as finite element analysis, solid mechanics, computational fluid dynamics, or multiphysics simulation.
• Proficiency in at least one finite element analysis software package, ideally Abaqus or a comparable tool.
• Programming experience using Python, MATLAB, or a comparable language.
• Strong understanding of mechanics, physics-based modelling, and model validation.
• Experience designing experiments and conducting validation trials in a pilot, laboratory, or industrial environment.
• Ability to communicate complex technical concepts to both specialist and non-specialist audiences.
• Experience working in cross-functional and international environments.
• Professional fluency in English.

Nice to have:

• Experience applying modelling and simulation to packaging, polymers, materials, manufacturing, or consumer product development.
• Knowledge of artificial intelligence or machine learning applications in engineering and simulation.
• Experience developing training programs, technical standards, or shared simulation methodologies.
• Experience collaborating with universities, research institutes, suppliers, or technology partners.
• Working knowledge of French.

About Danone

We offer:

All Danoners receive a complete package of benefits. This includes a competitive salary and yearly bonus, a premium free pension, 30 days of annual leave (with the opportunity to purchase more) and you will receive a monthly health care allowance. In addition, you can get discount on your gym membership, and we offer initiatives focused on nutrition, physical, and mental health. We provide continuous learning opportunities through workshops, online courses and training sessions.