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Packaging Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Taylor Corporation

Packaging Design Estimator

Fridley, MN · On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

The Packaging Design Estimator is responsible for designing efficient, safe, and cost-effective packaging solutions for kit-based products while developing accurate labor and build-time estimates.

Oliver Inc.

Packaging Design Manager

Twinsburg, OH

Build Innovative Packaging Solutions That Make an Impact Are you a packaging design leader who thrives on innovation, customer collaboration, and developing high-performing teams? We're looking for ...

New

Oliver Inc.

Packaging Design Manager

Twinsburg, OH · On-site

Build Innovative Packaging Solutions That Make an Impact Are you a packaging design leader who thrives on innovation, customer collaboration, and developing high-performing teams? We're looking for ...

New

Oliver Inc.

Packaging Design Manager

Twinsburg, OH · On-site

Build Innovative Packaging Solutions That Make an Impact Are you a packaging design leader who thrives on innovation, customer collaboration, and developing high-performing teams? We're looking for ...

New

TransPak

Packaging Design Engineer I

San Jose, CA · On-site

$72K/yr

Packaging Design Engineer I is primarily responsible for developing custom packaging designs and specifications in compliance with customer- or industry standards while meeting performance ...

Unilever

Packaging Design Manager

Trumbull, CT

$103K - $154K/yr

We are seeking a highly creative and technically skilled Packaging Design Manager to join our Global Skin Cleansing Packaging Team. This role offers a unique opportunity to influence the future of ...

transpak

Packaging Design Engineer I

Hayward, CA · On-site

$155K/yr

Packaging Design Engineer I is primarily responsible for developing custom packaging designs and specifications in compliance with customer- or industry standards while meeting performance ...

transpak

Packaging Design Engineer I

San Jose, CA

$159K/yr

Packaging Design Engineer I is primarily responsible for developing custom packaging designs and specifications in compliance with customer- or industry standards while meeting performance ...

JSP

Packaging Design Engineer

Madison Heights, MI

$125K/yr

The Engineer will design, test and implement packaging designs to jointly develop and design derivative and new product concepts for JSP and its customers and to meet the needs of all key ...

Lowe's

Packaging Design Lead

Mooresville, NC · On-site

$86K - $143K/yr

Your Impact The Packaging Design Lead is responsible for leading the creative and strategic direction of Lowe's Private Brand packaging and in-store displays. This role is responsible for developing ...

Intel

ADCE Packaging Design Architect

Folsom, CA

$220K - $311K/yr

Drives end-to-end development for substrate design from concept through tape out and implements physical layout and routing of the package design. Performs substrate fit and routing studies to ...

Westrock

Mgr,Packaging Design

West Chester, OH · On-site

$106K - $176K/yr

Display & packaging Concept development and ideation * Structural design and development * Leadership and mentorship of less experienced designers * Develop, organize and assist with customer ...

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All JobsPackaging Design Jobs

Packaging Design information

See salary details

$90K

$136.5K

How much do packaging design jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for packaging design in the United States is $135,040.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $136,000.00 and $136,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Packaging Designer, you need a strong background in graphic design, an understanding of materials and manufacturing processes, and often a degree in design or a related field. Proficiency in design software such as Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign) and knowledge of 3D modeling tools are typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with teams and develop impactful packaging. These skills ensure that packaging is visually appealing, functional, brand-consistent, and manufacturable, which is critical for product success in competitive markets.

How does a packaging designer typically collaborate with marketing and product development teams?

Packaging designers frequently work closely with both marketing and product development teams to ensure that the visual aspects of the packaging align with brand messaging and product requirements. This collaboration involves regular meetings to discuss target audiences, material selection, and design prototypes. Designers often incorporate feedback from these teams to refine concepts, balance aesthetics with functionality, and meet budgetary or regulatory constraints. Successful packaging designers are proactive communicators who translate marketing strategies and product features into compelling, on-brand packaging solutions.

What is packaging design?

Packaging design is the process of creating the exterior of a product, including choices in material, form, graphics, color, and typography. Its purpose is not only to protect the product but also to attract customers, communicate brand identity, and provide important information. Effective packaging design balances functionality, aesthetics, and marketing strategy to ensure products stand out on the shelf and deliver a positive user experience.

What is the difference between Packaging Design vs Graphic Designer?

AspectPackaging DesignGraphic Designer
CredentialsDesign degree, packaging certificationsDesign degree, graphic design certifications
Work EnvironmentPackaging companies, branding agenciesAdvertising agencies, media companies
Industry UsageProduct packaging, retail
Search IntentPackaging design jobs, packaging artistGraphic design jobs, visual artist

Packaging Design and Graphic Designer roles share similar design skills and educational backgrounds, but differ in focus. Packaging Design specializes in creating functional and attractive packaging for products, often requiring knowledge of materials and manufacturing. Graphic Designers work on visual communication across various media, emphasizing branding, advertising, and digital content. Both roles are vital in branding and marketing, but Packaging Design is more industry-specific to product presentation and retail packaging.

Is packaging design in demand?

Packaging design is in demand due to the growth of e-commerce and retail industries, which require innovative and sustainable packaging solutions. Professionals in this field often use design software like Adobe Illustrator and need a strong understanding of branding and materials to meet industry needs.

What does a packaging designer do?

A packaging designer creates the visual and structural design of product packaging to attract consumers and protect the product. They use graphic design skills and tools like Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop, often collaborating with marketing and manufacturing teams to ensure functionality and brand consistency.

How to get a job designing packaging?

To pursue a career in packaging design, develop skills in graphic design, 3D modeling, and familiarity with design software like Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. Building a strong portfolio showcasing packaging projects and obtaining relevant education or certifications can improve job prospects; internships and industry experience are also valuable.

How much do packaging designers make in the US?

Packaging designers in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, with experienced professionals and those in senior roles earning higher. Salaries can vary based on location, experience, and industry, and many packaging designers use design software like Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop as part of their work.
More about Packaging Design jobs
What cities are hiring for Packaging Design jobs? Cities with the most Packaging Design job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Packaging Design jobs? The most popular types of Packaging Design jobs are:
What states have the most Packaging Design jobs? States with the most job openings for Packaging Design jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Packaging Design jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Packaging Design jobs are:
Packaging Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Packaging Design job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $135,040 per year, or $64.9 per hour.
Packaging Design Estimator

Packaging Design Estimator

American Excelsior Company

Yakima, WA

$26 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

American Excelsior rating

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

107th of 114 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

The Packaging Design Estimator is responsible for developing accurate, timely cost estimates for packaging solutions by combining design knowledge, CAD capabilities, and manufacturing cost analysis. This role supports the full packaging development of lifecycles, from concept and design through quoting and production, by evaluating materials, processes, tooling, and labor. The Packaging Design Estimator works cross-functionally with engineering, sales, purchasing, and manufacturing to ensure designs are both cost-effective and manufacturable while meeting customer performance and quality requirements.
  • Create and maintain detailed CAD drawings using AutoCAD and SolidWorks.
  • Review product specifications to analyze packaging requirements, including product size, weight, fragility, and shipping needs.
  • Modify and update designs based on feedback from sales and project teams.
  • Participate in design reviews and recommend improvements related to cost and manufacturability.
  • Lead production of prototypes and first articles against specifications, prior to submittal to customers for approval and to manufacturing.
  • Develop process tools for manufacturing i.e. jigs fixture.
  • Other duties as assigned.
Cost Estimating & Analysis
  • Develop detailed cost estimates including materials, labor, machine time, tooling, and setup.
  • Analyze yields, scrap rates, and waste to ensure accurate costing.
  • Incorporate freight, assembly, warehousing, and secondary operations into estimates.
  • Maintain cost models and bills of materials (BOMs).
  • Request, review, and analyze supplier and vendor quotes.
  • Support RFQs, customer pricing requests, and internal pricing reviews.
  • Identify cost-saving alternatives and design-to-cost opportunities.
Materials, Manufacturing & Documentation Processes
  • Evaluate and select appropriate materials (urethane foam, polyethylene foams, corrugated, and other foam related materials.)
  • Assess manufacturing methods such as die-cutting, CNC, assembly process, and final product launch.
  • Balance performance, sustainability, lead time, and cost objectives.
  • Prepare technical documentation, drawings, and reports.
  • Collaborate with engineering, sales, operations, and purchasing teams throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Update estimates and drawings as designs evolve or scope changes occur.
  • Proficiency in AutoCAD; working knowledge of SolidWorks
  • Understanding of packaging design principles and protective packaging requirements
  • Knowledge of manufacturing processes and cost drivers
  • Experience with cost modeling and estimating methodologies
  • Working knowledge of Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook
  • Ability to interpret technical drawings, specifications, and reports
MATHEMATICAL SKILLS: Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as discounts and interest.
LANGUAGE SKILLS: Fluency in English, both written and oral, is required. Ability to read and write reports, business correspondence, and customary business documents. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of employees, managers, clients and customers in small or large groups settings.
TECHNOLOGICAL SKILLS: Working knowledge of Microsoft Outlook, Excel and Word; SyteLine or Sales Force software experience is beneficial.
REASONING ABILITY: Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to analyze and interpret general business or financial reports, professional journals, or technical procedures furnished in written, oral, diagram or schedule form.
  • Competitive PTO
  • 401(k) Match
  • Health, Life, Dental, and Vision insurance
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • On-the-job training
  • Opportunities for advancement
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Referral Program
  • Employee Discount Program
  • Financial Wellness Program

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