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Packaging Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Intel seeks a motivated and innovative Silicon Packaging Design Engineer to join our team, driving the end-to-end development of silicon interposer and bridge designs that define the future of ...

This entry-level, structural display and packaging design opportunity is ideal for a recent graduate in industrial design, packaging design, or someone eager to gain practical experience in a fast ...

Sr Dsgn,Packaging Design

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$84K - $140K/yr

General Information Job ID ATR60336 Posting Job Title Sr Dsgn,Packaging Design Locations MN Minneapolis Container Employment Type Full Time Date Posted 01-Jun-2026 Relocation Support No Description ...

Primary focus on packaging design with a strong understanding of intricacies of designing for packaging. Specific Duties: Embrace Company's guiding principles and mission: Create a positive, lasting ...

CASE is looking for a positive and detail-oriented design intern to support our team in creating engaging branding, packaging, and digital design experiences for our clients primarily in the beauty ...

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Packaging Design information

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$90K

$136.5K

How much do packaging design jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 20, 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:
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.
Structural Designer Packaging Engineer

Structural Designer Packaging Engineer

Golden West Packaging Group

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$70K - $71K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Golden West Packaging Group rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

24th of 114 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

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.

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