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Packaging Design Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Packaging Engineer

Itasca, IL · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Design and develop corrugate packaging structures and retail displays using Eng View and AutoCAD (3D modeling and 2D die-line/flat pattern layouts) * Create structural design packages including ECT ...

Design and evolve packaging systems that align with Abbott's brand strategy while supporting business and customer needs * Create scalable visual frameworks, packaging architectures, and design ...

This role coordinates packaging design and production projects end-to-end, serving as a key cross-functional liaison between marketing, creative, regulatory, and production teams to deliver high ...

Designs and engineers corrugated and carton packaging structures using structural CAD software (e.g., ArtiosCAD), partnering with sales and estimating teams to translate customer requirements into ...

Designs and engineers corrugated and carton packaging structures using structural CAD software (e.g., ArtiosCAD), partnering with sales and estimating teams to translate customer requirements into ...

Small but mighty Packaging Design Firm is expanding. This crew is a tight knit team working on Food, Bev, and Snacks CPG. The work is lively and the client relationships are solid. Think of the old ...

We design and deliver custom-engineered, end-to-end fiber connectivity solutions for the data ... About the Role You'll design and optimize the packaging that protects our fiber optic products on ...

Packaging Engineer

Berkeley, IL · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Designs and engineers corrugated and carton packaging structures using structural CAD software (e.g., ArtiosCAD), partnering with sales and estimating teams to translate customer requirements into ...

Packaging Engineer

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Analyze testing data using statistical methods, DOE (Design of Experiments), and Minitab * Deliver quality, manufacturing, and packaging equipment training to internal and external stakeholders

Packaging Engineer

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Analyze testing data using statistical methods, DOE (Design of Experiments), and Minitab * Deliver quality, manufacturing, and packaging equipment training to internal and external stakeholders

Design Director

Chicago, IL · On-site

$120 - $170/hr

Our clients are primarily consumer products companies and printers, and we help them by delivering a broad range of services from brand strategy and packaging design, to adaptive design across ...

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Packaging Design information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$92.8K

$140.7K

How much do packaging design jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for packaging design in Chicago, IL is $139,220.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $140,200.00 and $140,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a packaging designer?

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 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.

How do I get into packaging design?

To pursue a career in packaging design, develop skills in graphic design, 3D modeling, and understanding of materials. A relevant degree in graphic design, industrial design, or a related field is often required, along with proficiency in design software like Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. Gaining experience through internships or a portfolio of packaging projects can also improve job prospects.

How much do packaging design professionals earn?

Packaging design professionals typically earn between $45,000 and $85,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and skill level. Senior designers or those with specialized skills in 3D modeling or branding can earn higher salaries, especially in larger companies or competitive markets.

What does a packaging design do?

A packaging designer creates the visual and structural design of product packaging to attract customers 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Packaging Design jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Packaging Design jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What job categories do people searching Packaging Design jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Packaging Design jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Packaging Design job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $139,111 per year, or $66.9 per hour.

Packaging Design - Senior Designer

Veritiv Corporation

Aurora, IL

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Job Purpose:

Our Senior Packaging Designer will be responsible for supporting Veritiv's custom packaging development as SME, collaborating with design leaders and global cross-functional partners from concept to completion.

Job Responsibilities:

Develop fully-engineered design-driven custom packaging solutions in support of the Veritiv Sales organization.
Manage complex project schedules to prioritize workload and meet deadlines.
Leverage SolidWorks, ArtiosCAD, and other relevant software.
Review/approve peer technical drawings, SOPs, and test reports.
Develop and present highly technical presentations for internal and external communication.
May work directly with external customers and engage with vendor partners to ensure program and project success.
Engage in client-facing meetings.
Support and guide fellow team through trainings and mentoring.
Translate business strategies into technical initiatives.
Support processes/procedures to communicate technical information and decisions.
Stay current with industry technology advancements and market trends.

Additional Responsibilities & Qualifications:

Advanced expert level software program experience:
SolidWorks, ArtiosCAD, TOPS, Microsoft Office and KeyShot is a plus.

Advanced expert knowledge of packaging material design for manufacturing/tooling:
Corrugate, Fiberboard/Rigid Box, Molded Pulp, Plastics (Films, thermoforms, molded).
Foam (Molded/fabricated), Wood, Metal, Labels/Adhesives, Printing (Litho/Offset, Flexo, Digital).

Advanced expert understanding of packaging qualification standards:
ISTA, TAPPI, ASTM and calculation of cushion curves and safety factors.

Advanced expert understanding of:
Design principles, Retail & e-commence design, Packaging design, Retail display and fixture design, DFM (Design for Manufacturing), DOE (Design of Experiment), Industrial design, engineering, manufacturing, and supply chain in a globally sourced environment.

Proven experience executing design initiatives to meet client brief.
Strong presentation and communications skills.
Positive, motivational and thought leadership.
Detail oriented.
Ability to build trust with the team and partners.

Work Experience:

5-10 years of related job experience. Ability to manage multiple projects, work under pressure, and adapt to sudden changes in the work environment. Ability to work quickly and efficiently. Excellent verbal, written, people, and diplomacy skills are required. Experienced practitioner able to work unsupervised. Experience of interpreting strategy and policy in order to set and deliver objectives. Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite. Software program experience with SolidWorks, ArtiosCAD, TOPS and Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, Adobe Pro). Strong customer service skills (friendly, courteous and helpful). Strong planning and organization skills are required.

Education:

Bachelor's Degree Preferred

What We Offer

  • Engaging and inclusive culture with employee-led Employee Resource Groups, Veritiv Cultural Alliance, recognition platform, etc.
  • Extensive training opportunities, professional development programs, career pathing, and mentorship opportunities.
  • Collaborative atmosphere with our customers and suppliers to create healthier, safer and more sustainable communities through our responsible operations and innovative solutions.
  • Healthcare benefits (including medical, dental, vision, and health savings account), life, AD&D, and disability insurance, 401k, paid time off, tuition reimbursement, employee assistance program, and other fringe benefits.

About Veritiv

Together with its subsidiaries, Veritiv is the leading full-service provider of packaging solutions. Veritiv also provides JanSan, hygiene, print and publishing products and services. Veritiv serves customers in a wide range of industries, through team members around the world helping shape the success of its customers. For more information, visit www.veritiv.comand connect with the Company on LinkedIn.