Job Information
Mars Packaging Testing Senior Scientist H/F/X in Aimargues, France
Segment : Mars Global Services
Contract : Permanent/CDI
Localisation : Aimargues
As a Packaging Testing Senior Scientist , you’ll play a critical role in making sure our packaging materials are safe, high-quality, and fully compliant with global regulations. You’ll lead the development and validation of cutting-edge testing methods — working with both internal labs and trusted external partners — to ensure we deliver products that meet the highest standards of safety and performance.
What are we looking for?
A Master’s or PhD in Analytical Chemistry, Material Science, Packaging Science, or a related field
At least 7 years of hands-on experience in packaging testing, ideally in the food, cosmetics, or consumer goods industry
Deep understanding of packaging materials — from plastics and recycled content to adhesives, inks, and paper
Experience in Food Contact Materials (FCM), Chemical Migration testing, and NIAS screening (from method development to data interpretation)
Strong technical skills in laboratory testing methods such as GC, HPLC, MS, ICP, SPE, and more
Solid knowledge of food contact regulations (EU 10/2011, FDA CFR 21), and ideally ISO 17025 lab requirements
Experience working with or managing global lab networks, including method transfer and troubleshooting
Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to translate complex science into clear actions
Fluent English (spoken and written)
What would be your key responsibilities?
Lead Packaging Testing Capabilities
Design and validate testing methods to assess packaging safety, compliance, and performance
Monitor emerging risks and new testing trends (e.g., PFAS, microplastics, NIAS, etc.)
Ensure our methods meet business and regulatory needs worldwide
Build & Manage External Lab Partnerships
Identify and qualify third-party labs to support global packaging testing
Create strong technical collaborations across chemistry, toxicology, and regulatory science
Support labs with expert guidance, method troubleshooting, and continuous improvement
Ensure Quality, Compliance, and Operational Excellence
Deliver high-quality technical documentation (SOPs, protocols, QC plans)
Drive consistency and accuracy across internal and external lab networks
Act as a technical owner for packaging methods within our global governance system
Drive Innovation and Lab Capability Building
Recommend new testing technologies and equipment based on business needs
Contribute to investment decisions and help shape the future of Mars’ testing infrastructure
Support global lab teams with training, method development, and operational excellence initiatives
What can you expect from Mars?
Join our Center of Expertise , based in the beautiful South of France (Montpellier/Nîmes area), on the Royal Canin Headquarters campus ; a dynamic, international hub for innovation in pet nutrition and science. This unique campus brings together over 800 associates from 40+ nationalities , two laboratories, a kennel and cattery home to more than 400 pets , and Royal Canin’s most iconic factory.
As part of Mars Inc. , you belong to a global, family-owned business made up of multiple segments – including Petcare , Snacking , Food & Nutrition. This cross-segment ecosystem offers diverse career paths and rich collaboration opportunities.
Qualifications
Collaborates
Plans and Aligns
Nimble Learning
Manages Complexity
Decision Quality
Ensures Accountability
Communicates Effectively
Optimizes Work Processes