About APCO

The Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO) is Australia’s co-regulator for packaging and a not-for-profit organisation driving the development of a circular economy for packaging. APCO is the entity in charge of managing and administering the Australian Packaging Covenant (the Covenant), which is a national regulatory framework under the National Environment Protection (Used Packaging Materials) Measure 2011 (NEPM). This framework defines the collective responsibility shared by governments and businesses across Australia in managing the environmental impact of packaging.

The Role

The Packaging Technologist will support the packaging transformation program by providing packaging technical support to APCO Members via multiple programs and platforms (inc. Material Stewardship Committees). This role will develop and manage key packaging activities and require a sustainable packaging technology knowledge and acumen.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and delivery of packaging sustainability programs and transformation projects aligned with APCO’s strategic objectives.
• Drive APCO’s technical agenda by applying expertise in packaging materials, formats, and sustainable design principles to support member needs and broader industry progress.
• Facilitate and influence Material Stewardship Committees, ensuring high-quality outputs, engaged participation, and tangible outcomes.
• Collaborate across APCO teams (e.g. ARL, Strategy, Member Services) to share insights and deliver integrated solutions.
• Translate emerging industry insights and technical data into accessible, solution-focused guidance for members and stakeholders.
• Represent APCO in external forums with professionalism, technical credibility, and a clear commitment to sustainable change.

We are seeking someone with:

• Experience in packaging technology and an understanding of materials, formats, and sustainability practices.
• A strong commitment to sustainability and a genuine passion for contributing to a more circular and responsible packaging future.
• A member- or customer-centric mindset, with the ability to actively listen and deliver tailored, high-quality support and solutions.
• Proactive problem-solving skills and a keen eye for detail, ensuring accurate record-keeping and reliable administrative delivery.
• Strong collaboration and teamwork abilities, with confidence working across internal teams and with a wide range of external stakeholders.
• A growth mindset, demonstrating curiosity, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous personal and professional development.
• Demonstrated experience in responding to inquiries, resolving issues, and maintaining positive, solutions-focused relationships.
• High-level communication skills, both written and verbal, with strong time management and confidence in data and record management tools.

You will be a great candidate if you have:

• Experience in a member-based organisation or cross-industry collaboration.
• Familiarity with regulatory or compliance frameworks related to packaging or product stewardship.
• Knowledge of sustainability trends, packaging innovation, and circular economy principles.