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Freelance Structural Packaging Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sandisk

Sr. Industrial Designer (Packaging)

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$121K - $201K/yr

Must have 5-7+ years of structural packaging design experience for high-volume consumer products. * Demonstrated success in designing packaging with best-in-class out-of-box experience across ...

Apple

Packaging Product Design Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$134K/yr

The Packaging PD team is a diverse group of people responsible for the design and execution of structural packaging for all Apple products - from shippers to finished goods boxes. Our packaging ...

Apple

Packaging Product Design Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$167K/yr

The Packaging PD team is a diverse group of people responsible for the design and execution of structural packaging for all Apple products - from shippers to finished goods boxes. Our packaging ...

Apple

Test Engineer, Packaging Product Design

Austin, TX · On-site

$134K/yr

The Packaging PD team is a diverse group of people responsible for the design and execution of structural packaging for all Apple products, from shippers to finished goods boxes. Our packaging ...

WestRock

Dsgn,Packaging Design

Richmond, VA · On-site

Structural Packaging Designer The Opportunity: The Packaging Designer will develop innovative, cost ... Produce samples and mock-ups using various design techniques and skills including drafting (2D/3D ...

Actalent

Packaging Design Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA

$65 - $72/hr

Develop packaging concepts, structural designs, and detailed specifications for consumer electronics devices from early concept through mass production. * Create and maintain CAD models, engineering ...

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Freelance Structural Packaging Design information

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How much do freelance structural packaging design jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance structural packaging design in the United States is $47.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $61.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges freelance structural packaging designers face when working with clients remotely?

Freelance structural packaging designers often encounter challenges such as communicating complex design concepts and ensuring that their creative vision aligns with the client’s brand and manufacturing constraints. Working remotely also means relying heavily on digital prototypes, which can make it harder to evaluate the tactile aspects of packaging until physical samples are produced. Additionally, coordinating with multiple stakeholders—such as brand managers, printers, and manufacturers—requires strong project management and clear documentation to avoid miscommunication and delays.

What is the difference between Freelance Structural Packaging Design vs Freelance Graphic Packaging Design?

AspectFreelance Structural Packaging DesignFreelance Graphic Packaging Design
CredentialsKnowledge of packaging materials, structural engineering, CAD toolsSkills in graphic design, branding, Adobe Creative Suite
Work EnvironmentDesigning physical packaging structures, prototypesCreating visual graphics, labels, and branding elements
Industry UsageManufacturers, packaging companies, product brandsBranding agencies, product companies, marketing firms
Search & Comparison IntentDesigning physical packaging structuresCreating visual graphics for packaging

Freelance Structural Packaging Design focuses on creating the physical form and structure of packaging, requiring engineering and material knowledge. In contrast, Freelance Graphic Packaging Design emphasizes visual aesthetics and branding elements. Both roles are essential in the packaging industry but serve different purposes in the product presentation process.

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

To excel as a Freelance Structural Packaging Designer, you need a strong background in industrial or packaging design, materials knowledge, and proficiency in 3D modeling and prototyping. Familiarity with CAD software (such as ArtiosCAD or SolidWorks), dieline creation, and an understanding of printing processes are typically required. Creative problem-solving, effective communication, and time management are essential soft skills for collaborating with clients and managing multiple projects. These competencies are crucial for delivering innovative, functional packaging solutions that meet client needs and industry standards.

What is freelance structural packaging design?

Freelance structural packaging design involves creating the physical shape, structure, and functionality of packaging for products, working independently rather than as a full-time employee. Designers in this field focus on developing innovative, practical, and attractive packaging solutions that protect products, enhance branding, and improve the customer experience. Freelancers may work with various materials such as cardboard, plastics, or eco-friendly options, and collaborate with brands, manufacturers, and printers to bring packaging concepts to life. Their work often combines engineering, graphic design, and marketing knowledge to meet client needs.
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Freelance Structural Packaging Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Structural Packaging Design job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 21% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 77% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,230 per year, or $47.7 per hour.
Structural Designer Packaging Engineer

Structural Designer Packaging Engineer

Golden West Packaging Group

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$70K - $71K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Golden West Packaging Group rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

22nd of 112 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

Position Title: Structural Designer / Packaging Engineer
Reports to: Design Supervisor
FLSA: Exempt
Position Summary:
The Structural Designer develops and implements packaging solutions for customers across consumer, industrial, retail, club store, protective packaging, and display markets. This position applies packaging design principles, technical knowledge, and problem-solving skills to develop manufacturable, cost-effective packaging systems utilizing corrugated, folding carton, foam, and related materials.
The incumbent exercises independent judgment in evaluating customer requirements, developing design concepts, selecting appropriate materials, assessing manufacturing feasibility, and recommending packaging solutions that meet customer objectives and company standards. The position collaborates with customers, sales personnel, customer service, and manufacturing teams to support successful packaging development and implementation.
Essential Functions:
  • Design and develop custom packaging solutions that meet customer requirements, manufacturing capabilities, performance objectives, and profitability goals.
  • Apply structural design principles to optimize package functionality, manufacturability, product protection, and cost effectiveness.
  • Evaluate packaging requirements involving material selection, product protection, converting processes, manufacturing capabilities, and supply chain considerations.
  • Exercise independent judgment in developing design concepts, structural configurations, and packaging recommendations.
  • Develop engineering drawings, specifications, prototypes, CAD models, and technical documentation required for manufacturing implementation.
  • Evaluate manufacturing feasibility and recommend appropriate material specifications, tooling requirements, and production methodologies.
  • Analyze packaging and production challenges and recommend practical solutions to improve performance, quality, and efficiency.
  • Coordinate packaging development projects from concept through implementation while collaborating with sales, graphics, customer service, production, and external suppliers.
  • Provide technical support and packaging design recommendations to customers, sales personnel, and internal departments.
  • Participate in customer meetings to discuss packaging requirements, product performance, manufacturability, and cost considerations.
  • Research packaging materials, manufacturing processes, and industry trends to support innovation and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Recommend improvements to packaging designs and production processes that enhance operational efficiency, product quality, and customer satisfaction.
  • Ensure compliance with engineering specifications, quality standards, customer requirements, and company procedures.
  • Maintain accurate design records, engineering documentation, and project files.
  • Perform other professional-level duties consistent with the scope and responsibilities of the position.

Education & Experience Required:
  • Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Packaging Design, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Design, or a closely related technical discipline preferred.
  • Minimum of three (3) years of experience in structural packaging design, packaging engineering, or related converting environments involving corrugated, folding carton, displays, and protective packaging applications.
  • Demonstrated ability to apply packaging design principles, technical knowledge, and problem-solving skills to develop effective packaging solutions.
  • Equivalent combinations of education, technical training, and relevant experience may be considered.

Technical Aptitude & Software:
  • Proficiency with ArtiosCAD for structural packaging development and manufacturing specification preparation.
  • Working knowledge of Adobe Illustrator for graphics integration and technical file preparation.
  • Experience with Esko software, including Studio and related packaging workflow applications, preferred.
  • Knowledge of corrugated, folding carton, foam, and protective packaging materials, manufacturing processes, and converting technologies.
  • Ability to evaluate alternatives, make technical recommendations, and communicate packaging solutions to customers and internal stakeholders.

Skills:
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
  • Effective verbal, written, and technical communication skills.
  • Ability to exercise sound judgment when making recommendations affecting product performance, manufacturability, and customer satisfaction.
  • Strong organizational and project coordination skills.
  • Experience with Kongsberg cutting tables, prototype development, and packaging validation methodologies preferred.

Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to inspect samples, evaluate prototypes, and perform packaging development and testing activities.
  • Occasional lifting of materials, samples, and prototypes up to 30 pounds.
  • Ability to travel periodically to customer locations, manufacturing facilities, and industry events as business needs require.

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