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Contract Packaging Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Packaging Designer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

This will be a full time 3 month fixed term contract with potential opportunity to extend or become ... Leverage foundational packaging engineering expertise to develop and prototype structural designs ...

Packaging Designer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

This will be a full time 3 month fixed term contract with potential opportunity to extend or become ... Leverage foundational packaging engineering expertise to develop and prototype structural designs ...

This will be a full time 3 month fixed term contract with potential opportunity to extend or become ... Leverage foundational packaging engineering expertise to develop and prototype structural designs ...

Packaging Designer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

This will be a full time 3 month fixed term contract with potential opportunity to extend or become ... Leverage foundational packaging engineering expertise to develop and prototype structural designs ...

This will be a full time 3 month fixed term contract with potential opportunity to extend or become ... Leverage foundational packaging engineering expertise to develop and prototype structural designs ...

Packaging Designer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

This will be a full time 3 month fixed term contract with potential opportunity to extend or become ... Leverage foundational packaging engineering expertise to develop and prototype structural designs ...

... Contract Manufacturers for build validation and Packaging Suppliers for structure development - Collaborate with Asia and US Engineering teams to structure and release packaging components in Agile ...

This Packaging Designer position is 70% execution and 30% new brand concept and other brand ... Collaborate with Structural Engineering, Marketing, Quality Control and Product Development teams ...

Engineering and Sciences Subcategory: Specialty Engr Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes ... Lead preparation of complete contract packages including requirements validation, funding ...

Showing results 41-60

Contract Packaging Engineer information

See California salary details

$19

$41

$66

How much do contract packaging engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract packaging engineer in California is $41.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32.26 and $48.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by contract packaging engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Contract Packaging Engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to diverse client requirements, managing tight project timelines, and ensuring cost-effective packaging solutions while maintaining quality and compliance. To address these, engineers need strong project management skills, effective communication with both clients and internal teams, and a solid understanding of regulatory standards. Proactively staying updated on packaging technologies and regularly collaborating with cross-functional teams can also help streamline processes and ensure successful project delivery.

What does a contract packaging engineer do?

A Contract Packaging Engineer specializes in designing, developing, and managing packaging solutions for products, often working for third-party companies that handle packaging for clients. They ensure that packaging meets safety, regulatory, and branding requirements while optimizing for cost and efficiency. Their role may involve selecting appropriate materials, testing package durability, and coordinating with manufacturers and logistics teams. These engineers also help streamline the packing process to improve productivity and reduce waste, making them essential for companies looking to outsource their packaging needs.

What is the difference between Contract Packaging Engineer vs Packaging Technician?

AspectContract Packaging EngineerPackaging Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering, packaging, or related field; certifications like PMP or Six Sigma beneficialHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical training or certifications preferred
Work EnvironmentDesign, plan, and oversee packaging projects; collaborate with manufacturing and quality teamsOperate packaging machinery; perform packaging tasks on production lines
Industry UsageUsed across manufacturing, consumer goods, and pharmaceutical industries for project managementCommonly found in production facilities handling daily packaging operations

The Contract Packaging Engineer focuses on designing and managing packaging projects, requiring engineering knowledge and project management skills. In contrast, the Packaging Technician handles the hands-on operation of packaging equipment, ensuring daily production runs smoothly. Both roles are essential in the packaging process but differ in scope, responsibilities, and required qualifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract packaging engineer?

To thrive as a Contract Packaging Engineer, you need a strong background in packaging design, materials science, and manufacturing processes, often supported by a degree in engineering or packaging science. Familiarity with CAD software, packaging testing equipment, and regulatory compliance tools is typically required. Strong project management, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with clients and cross-functional teams. These competencies ensure innovative, cost-effective packaging solutions that meet client specifications and industry standards.
What are the most commonly searched types of Packaging Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Packaging Engineer jobs in California are:
What job categories do people searching Contract Packaging Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Packaging Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Contract Packaging Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Contract Packaging Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Contract Packaging Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,966 per year, or $41.8 per hour.

Packaging Designer

hhglobal

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Purpose of the Job

We're seeking a talented and experienced Packaging Designer with a strong background in packaging engineering to join our innovative health and tech brand. This role requires a creative individual who can not only conceptualize and design visually appealing packaging but also possess the technical expertise to ensure its functionality, sustainability, and manufacturability.

Preferred candidates will be hybrid based out of our client headquarters in San Francisco, CA.

*This will be a full time 3 month fixed term contract with potential opportunity to extend or become permanent.*

Key Responsibilities 

  • Design & Development: Lead the conceptualization, design, and development of all packaging for new and existing products, ensuring brand consistency and aesthetic appeal.
  • Structural Concepting & Prototyping: Leverage foundational packaging engineering expertise to develop and prototype structural designs and select appropriate materials, especially when supporting seasonal campaigns or partnership packaging. While core engineering leads evergreen portfolio development, the designer must be able to step in to establish initial technical viability for agile projects.
  • Collaboration: Work closely with marketing, product development, and supply chain teams to ensure packaging meets all functional, aesthetic, and budgetary requirements.
  • Sustainability: Research and integrate sustainable and eco-friendly materials and practices into packaging designs.
  • Vendor Collaboration & Artwork Management: Collaborate with external vendors and manufacturers on packaging artwork, driving necessary iterations to ensure the correct execution of design specifications and files for timely production.
  • Design review: Collaborate with the Packaging Engineering team to conduct design reviews against rigorous packaging standards. The goal is to evaluate, refine, and iterate on design concepts to ensure optimal product protection, durability, and a positive customer unboxing experience, incorporating feedback from formal test results.
  • Future thinking: You will be challenged to collaborate with the product management and internal ID team to develop our packaging portfolio & roadmap.

The type of person we’re looking for:

  • Be a hands-on design expert, shaping the concept and seeing it through implementation
  • Self-starter with a strong ability to anticipate needs, and manage multiple priorities effectively..
  • Passionate and excited about design, health, and technology
  • Thrives in a dynamic, rapidly evolving environment
  • A clear communicator, have excellent presentation skills and the ability to verbalize ideas and concepts.

Knowledge, Skills + Experience 

  • 6-8 years of experience in the creative packaging industry, with previous experience as a packaging designer
  • Proven experience in packaging design for a consumer brand.
  • Proficiency in design software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite, SolidWorks, or similar 3D modeling software). Experience working with 3D and 2D CAD.
  • Demonstrated understanding of packaging materials, manufacturing processes, and supply chain logistics.
  • A portfolio showcasing a blend of creative design and technical engineering solutions.
  • Experienced in being a thought partner with senior creatives to brainstorm and collaborate on concepts and direction.
  • Up to date with cultural moments and ideas in fashion, art, design, and photography, and can translate those into original ideas within our brand.
  • Strong typography, visual, and experience design sensibilities.
  • Able to travel to production locations and work closely with teams around the world

The US base salary range for this position is $120,000 to $160,000 annually. Actual compensation packages are based on a variety of factors that are unique to each candidate, including skill set, experience, education, certifications and work location. This range may be different in other locations due to differences in the cost of labor.  

The total compensation package for this position may also include annual performance bonus targets, benefits and/or other applicable incentives in addition to base salary.