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Freelance Structural Packaging Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Apple

Packaging Product Design Engineer

Austin, TX

$150K - $277K/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 ...

PTR Global

Product Design Engineer II

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$50 - $60/hr

Structural Packaging Design Engineer Location: Cupertino, California Duration: Contract Job ID: 171120 Job Overview: * This team is a diverse group of people responsible for the design and execution ...

UFP Industries

Packaging Engineer I

Salisbury, NC · On-site

Responsible to manage new product development processes, based on customer needs, design structural packaging basics, utilizing SolidWorks and other computer design programs suitable for the purpose ...

Whoop

Industrial Designer, Packaging - Lead

Boston, MA · On-site

Lead the design of structural packaging across a range of hardware and accessory products * Establish and evolve packaging families that scale across product lines while maintaining consistency

Apply Early

Westrock

Mgr,Packaging Design

West Chester, OH · On-site

$106K - $176K/yr

General Information Job ID ATR62222 Posting Job Title Senior Structural Designer Locations OH West ... Display & packaging Concept development and ideation * Structural design and development

Oliver Inc.

Packaging Designer

Cleveland, OH · On-site

Follow best practices for structural creation to make sure customer's needs are addressed. * Lead the design process for folding carton packaging which includes brainstorming, sketching, and creating ...

Westrock

Sr Dsgn,Packaging Design

Houston, TX · On-site

Strong understanding of packaging materials, printing methods, structural design, and production processes. * Solid knowledge of brand systems, typography, color theory, and visual hierarchy as ...

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Freelance Structural Packaging Design information

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$14

$47

$132

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.
More about Freelance Structural Packaging Design jobs
What cities are hiring for Freelance Structural Packaging Design jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Structural Packaging Design job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Structural Packaging Design jobs? The most popular types of Structural Packaging Design jobs are:
What states have the most Freelance Structural Packaging Design jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Structural Packaging Design jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Structural Packaging Design jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Structural Packaging Design jobs are:
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.
Packaging Product Design Engineering Manager

Packaging Product Design Engineering Manager

Apple

Cupertino, CA • On-site

$233K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Apple rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 666 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 30 rated technology retailers

Job description

When was the last time you enjoyed a box as much as the product inside? At Apple, every customer interaction is an opportunity for surprise and delight! This philosophy extends beyond the product to its packaging, where every detail is thoughtfully considered.
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 delivers an outstanding customer experience, while protecting products throughout the shipping environment, and advancing Apple's sustainability goals. We collaborate with a wide range of teams including Industrial Design, Marketing, Environmental, Operations and many others during the design process.
Description
As a Packaging PD Manager, you will lead a team of engineers to design and execute packaging architecture from initial prototypes to mass production with sustainable packaging material. You and your team will be given ownership of the mechanical design of the packaging of several products in our product portfolio. Under your guidance, your team will be responsible for the design, manufacturability, quality, and reliability of this packaging.
We are seeking someone who approaches problem solving with passion, creativity, and curiosity. Apple's approach to packaging is unique, so we value people who are eager to learn new skills and further improve their knowledge of packaging design, manufacturing processes, and sustainable materials. We welcome fresh influences from outside the standard packaging industry to promote innovation in creative ways.
Minimum Qualifications
BS degree with an emphasis in Mechanical Engineering, Packaging Science or related field
Experience managing or serving as technical lead of a mechanical design team
Experience working with 3D and 2D CAD
Strong analytical skills and engineering fundamentals
Experienced in failure analysis and root cause investigations of multi-disciplinary problems
Experienced in solving complex technical challenges using a data-driven design approach
Proven track record of shipping high volume consumer products
Ability to manage multidisciplinary cross functional efforts
Ability to travel up to 20% to support your team, our suppliers and engineering build activities
Preferred Qualifications
5 years of related industry experience
Innovative thinking, high personal motivation, and a strong sense of ownership
Flexibility and comfort working in a quickly changing environment
Excellent verbal and written presentation skills
Prototyping experience
Experience collaborating with manufacturers throughout the design cycle, from concept to mass production.
Knowledge of FEA and material science, fiber based material understanding is a plus

What Apple employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About Apple

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Imagine what you could do here! At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish. Dynamic, intelligent people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. The people who work here have reinvented entire industries with all Apple Hardware products. The same real passion for innovation that goes into our products also applies to our practices strengthening our dedication to leave the world better than we found it.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cupertino, CA, US

Year founded

1976

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