Freelance Structural Packaging Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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.