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Freelance Corrugated Structural Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Design and develop new and revised corrugated packaging and display solutions, including cost ... Work closely with Graphics to integrate structural design with artwork, ensuring the final package ...

... designs. BASIC REQUIREMENTS: Education equivalent to an associate's degree in structural design ... Experience in corrugated industry with a technical understanding of corrugated packaging design ...

The Structural Designer is responsible for the creation of cost-effective, structurally ... Design packaging solutions for corrugated boxes and other materials * Collaborate with Sales to ...

The Structural Designer is responsible for the creation of cost-effective, structurally sound ... Design packaging solutions for corrugated boxes and other materials * Collaborate with Sales to ...

Structural Designer

Aurora, IL · On-site

$75K - $101K/yr

Position Title: Structural Designer Pay Rate : $75,800 - $101,000 Multiple factors, including ... We are a leader in corrugated packaging, partnering with customers across industries to protect ...

Position Title: Structural Designer Pay Rate : $75,800 - $101,000 Multiple factors, including ... We are a leader in corrugated packaging, partnering with customers across industries to protect ...

This role determines the physical form and technical specifications for projects from concept through final execution, with a primary focus on corrugated materials. Designers balance structural ...

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Freelance Corrugated Structural Designer information

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$20

$41

$65

How much do freelance corrugated structural designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance corrugated structural designer in the United States is $41.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.25 and $51.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Freelance Corrugated Structural Designer?

A Freelance Corrugated Structural Designer is a professional who specializes in creating custom designs and prototypes for packaging and displays made from corrugated cardboard. They work independently, often on a project-by-project basis, to develop innovative and functional packaging solutions for products. Their work involves understanding product requirements, producing structural drawings, and collaborating with manufacturers to ensure designs are practical and cost-effective. Freelancers in this field may serve a variety of industries, including retail, food and beverage, and e-commerce.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance corrugated structural designers when working with clients remotely?

Freelance corrugated structural designers often encounter challenges such as accurately interpreting client requirements without in-person meetings, ensuring files are compatible with clients' production equipment, and managing expectations regarding prototype revisions and turnaround times. Effective communication and clear documentation are key to overcoming these hurdles. Additionally, freelancers must be proactive in coordinating with packaging engineers, printers, and marketing teams to ensure designs meet both functional and branding needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freelance Corrugated Structural Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Corrugated Structural Designer, you need strong skills in packaging design, structural engineering principles, and a solid understanding of corrugated materials, often supported by a degree in industrial or packaging design. Proficiency in CAD software (such as ArtiosCAD or AutoCAD), dieline creation tools, and knowledge of manufacturing processes is essential. Creativity, problem-solving abilities, and clear communication with clients and manufacturers are standout soft skills. These competencies ensure that designs are both innovative and functional, meeting client needs while optimizing for production efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

What is the difference between Freelance Corrugated Structural Designer vs Corrugated Packaging Engineer?

AspectFreelance Corrugated Structural DesignerCorrugated Packaging Engineer
CredentialsDesign certifications, CAD skillsEngineering degree, packaging certifications
Work EnvironmentFreelance, remote or client sitesIn-house or consulting firms
Industry UsageDesigning structural layouts for packagingDeveloping packaging solutions and testing
Search & ComparisonFocus on design and structural aspectsFocus on packaging performance and engineering

Freelance Corrugated Structural Designers primarily focus on creating structural designs for packaging using CAD tools, often working independently. Corrugated Packaging Engineers typically have engineering backgrounds and develop comprehensive packaging solutions, including testing and performance analysis. While both roles involve packaging, the designer emphasizes structural layout, whereas the engineer emphasizes engineering principles and testing.

More about Freelance Corrugated Structural Designer jobs
What cities are hiring for Freelance Corrugated Structural Designer jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Corrugated Structural Designer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Corrugated Structural Designer jobs? The most popular types of Corrugated Structural Designer jobs are:
What states have the most Freelance Corrugated Structural Designer jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Corrugated Structural Designer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Corrugated Structural Designer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Corrugated Structural Designer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Freelance Corrugated Structural Designer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 95% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,632 per year, or $41.6 per hour.
Associate Structural Designer

Associate Structural Designer

Menasha Corporation

Hartford, WI

Full-time

Posted 6 hours ago


Job description

Menasha Corporation Employees, please log-in to your Workday account to apply for positions.

ABOUT US (AND OUR EXCITING FUTURE)

Menasha Corporation is all about possibilities. Our two businesses, Menasha Packaging and ORBIS Corporation, are leaders in their industries, providing corrugated and plastic packaging products and related services to major global companies.

Our employees make the difference, proving that great ideas, collaboration and quality turn possibilities into success. Working at Menasha Corporation means that your insights provide cutting-edge solutions for our customers. If you like to make things happen and are passionate about what you do, you're going to want to be here.

Join us and become part of the power behind possible.

About The Opportunity

The Associate Structural Designer is responsible for creating and developing innovative packaging solutions. Responsible for design, specifications, and prototypes of packaging materials, considering factors like visual aesthetics, structural integrity, cost-effectiveness, and manufacturability while ensuring that products are packaged in a way that is both functional and appealing.Structural Design & Development
  • Create detailed structural packaging designs using CAD tools and design software
  • Translate customer requirements, product specifications, and brand objectives into viable packaging solutions
  • Ensure designs optimize material usage, performance, and manufacturability
  • Apply knowledge of corrugated, paperboard, and other packaging materials to design practical solutions

Collaboration & Communication

  • Partner with internal stakeholders (sales, production, graphics, and project management) to ensure alignment throughout the design process
  • Engage with customers to understand needs, refine design concepts, and present solutions
  • Incorporate feedback and adjust designs to meet evolving requirements

Prototyping & Sampling

  • Develop prototypes, mock-ups, and samples for customer presentations and internal validation
  • Support sales teams with compelling visual and functional packaging samples
  • Coordinate with sample-making teams and production facilities as needed

Project Management

  • Manage multiple design projects simultaneously, ensuring deadlines and priorities are met
  • Provide regular status updates to stakeholders and proactively communicate risks or delays
  • Maintain organized documentation and version control for all design files

Specifications & Documentation

  • Assist in creating detailed specifications, drawings, and production documentation
  • Ensure all designs are clearly communicated for manufacturing, including dimensions, materials, and assembly requirements
  • Support the transition from design to production by ensuring accuracy and completeness

Testing & Validation

  • Participate in or lead packaging performance testing (compression, transit, durability, etc.)
  • Analyze test results and refine designs to improve performance and cost-efficiency
  • Ensure designs meet customer requirements, quality standards, and industry guidelines

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Industrial Design, or related field (or equivalent experience)
  • 0-3+ years of experience in structural design, packaging design, or a related field
  • Experience with CAD software (e.g., ArtiosCAD or similar) preferred
  • Basic knowledge of packaging materials, manufacturing processes, and testing methods
  • Strong communication and organizational skills

Core Competencies

  • Technical Design Skills: Strong understanding of structural packaging design principles and materials
  • Problem Solving: Ability to develop creative, practical, and cost-effective solutions
  • Attention to Detail: Precision in design specifications and documentation
  • Collaboration: Works effectively across teams and builds strong relationships
  • Time Management: Ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects simultaneously
  • Customer Focus: Understands and delivers on customer needs and expectations

Two companies, one vision.

Menasha Corporation consists of two companies that are leading the way to a sustainable future with packaging and supply chain solutions. Founded in 1849 and headquartered in Neenah, Wisconsin, we employ over 7,500 employees in 112 facilities in North America and Europe.

Our companies are leading corrugated and plastic packaging manufacturers and supply chain solution providers. Our Menasha Packaging Company is the largest independent provider of packaging and supply chain service solutions in North America, designing, printing, and fulfilling graphic packaging, display and merchandising solutions for over 1,800 brands, both in-store and online.


Our ORBIS business believes there is a better way to optimize today's supply chains, with reusable packaging products and services. Reusable containers, pallets, dunnage, bulk systems and metal racks improve the flow product all along the supply chain to reduce costs, enhance profitability and add sustainability.


Our products and services are used by global, name-brand companies in the food, beverage, health and beauty, over-the-counter pharmaceutical, industrial, automotive, and electronics industries.

Come build an exciting, rewarding career with us, where you'll have opportunities to grow.


The possibilities are endless. The power is yours!


Menasha Corporation and its subsidiaries and affiliates are equal opportunity employers. All qualified applicants will be provided with equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, disability status, or genetic information.