Freelance Structural Packaging Design Jobs in California

Position Summary:

Packaging Design Engineer I is primarily responsible for developing custom packaging designs and specifications in compliance with customer- or industry standards while meeting performance requirements, sustainability goals, and maintaining cost-effectiveness. Design activities will include, but are not limited to creating 3D models, 2D drawings, performance calculations, Bill of Materials (BOM) and other documentation. This role requires communicating with internal and external customers and performing site visits to collect product details and measurements.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design and develop standard and non-standard packaging solutions, including detailed 3D models and engineering drawings of mechanical components, parts, assemblies, and packaging under the guidance of senior engineers and managers, using SolidWorks or NX.
• Interpret technical documentation, sketches, and 3D models to develop comprehensive 2D drawings as per standards.
• Participate in onsite meetings to customer sites with senior design engineers to understand their design requirements.
• Create new or update existing packaging specifications and designs, including materials, dimensions, and tolerances to optimize manufacturing efficiency, job cost and evaluate existing designs for cost optimization.
• Gain hands-on experience in selecting packaging materials, considering factors such as durability, environmental impact, and cost effectiveness.
• Collaborate with internal design engineering department to review CAD designs and confirm that the provided solution meets all requirements prior to releasing design for manufacturing.
• Develop engineering and manufacturing Bill of Material (BOM) needed for the manufacturing process.
• Update or modify existing Bill of Material (BOM), drawings and technical documentation as required.
• Support senior engineers to create First Article Inspection documentation and other support type documents.
• Work closely with internal cross functional teams and external customers to create packaging solutions as per industry standards.
• Participate in team meetings and design reviews at various stages of packaging/ design development and provide technical expertise and recommendations.
• Assist in creation of packaging prototypes and participate in packaging testing and validation, including structural analysis and simulations to validate packaging/ design performance.
• Prepare and maintain documentation of design specifications, engineering analyses, test results, and packaging/ design changes, ensuring accuracy and compliance with internal processes and industry standards.
• Gain hands-on experience in all aspects of packaging design and development.
• Continuously develop engineering skills and knowledge.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by Management

Education/Knowledge/Skills/Experience Desired:

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical/ manufacturing/ industrial/ Packaging Engineering and related work experience.
• Minimum 2-3 years of experience in mechanical/structural design and development.
• Proficiency in CAD software, SolidWorks/ AutoCAD preferred.
• Strong knowledge and understanding of GD&T standards e.g., ASME Y14.5. for drafting and detailing engineering drawings components.
• Strong understanding of crate or wooden packaging, packaging design, distribution packaging, package testing/qualification, and resolving packaging related issues.
• Knowledge of packaging testing, design standards (ISO, Mil-spec, etc.), ASTM/ ISTA standards, transportation, and material handling for small and large equipment.
• Strong technical understanding of protective packaging materials, cushion design, distribution environment, failure mechanisms, analytical techniques, and manufacturing processes.
• General knowledge of cleanroom acceptable packaging materials is a plus.
• Ability to use tape measure and measure accurately. A variety of measuring equipment like Tape measurer, calipers, and scales to record design requirements for customer parts.
• Experience with CNC programming and ArtiosCAD is a plus.
• Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Problem-solving mindset.
• High attention to detail and deadline-driven, with focus on continuous improvement.
• Team focused but individually accountable.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.