ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Packaging Designer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Commercial Vehicle Group

Packaging Engineer

Vonore, TN · On-site

The Packaging Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and validating returnable and expendable packaging systems for commercial and heavy-duty automotive components - including seating ...

Tjoapack

Packaging Engineer

Clinton, TN · On-site

The Packaging Engineer at Tjoapack is responsible for designing and managing pharmaceutical packaging systems from concept through implementation, ensuring all components and processes work ...

Foster + Partners

Designer

Nashville, TN · On-site

We offer a benefits package designed to help you thrive professionally and personally. This includes medical and dental insurance, partially funded by the practice, life assurance, retirement ...

Autokiniton

Packaging Engineer

Watertown, TN · On-site

Designs and develop protective packaging containers, dunnage and unique racks. * Analyzes engineering drawings and specifications to determine physical requirements, quality, safety and materials ...

Autokiniton

Packaging Engineer

Watertown, TN · On-site

Designs and develop protective packaging containers, dunnage and unique racks. * Analyzes engineering drawings and specifications to determine physical requirements, quality, safety and materials ...

Conflux Systems

Packaging Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site +1

$34 - $50/hr

This role focuses on designing, testing, and validating product packaging to meet regulatory requirements and global standards while ensuring efficient supplier engagement and business continuity.

Actalent

Packaging Engineer

Clinton, TN

Packaging Engineer This Packaging Engineer role focuses on designing, implementing, and optimizing pharmaceutical packaging systems within a cGMP manufacturing environment. The position manages ...

Lactalis

Project Packaging Engineer

Murfreesboro, TN · On-site

Ensure packaging system designs capture industry best practices and align with the site master plan. * Stakeholder Mobilization: Actively engage, communicate with, and mobilize plant teams at every ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPackaging Designer JobsPackaging Designer Jobs in Tennessee

Packaging Designer information

See Tennessee salary details

$33.1K

$62.4K

$85.8K

How much do packaging designer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for packaging designer in Tennessee is $62,388.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,800.00 and $74,000.00 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 typically a degree in design or a related field. Proficiency with design software such as Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign) and familiarity with 3D modeling tools are essential. Creativity, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help you develop innovative solutions that meet client needs and brand guidelines. These skills ensure that packaging is both visually appealing and functional, supporting brand identity and product protection.

What is the difference between Packaging Designer vs Packaging Engineer?

AspectPackaging DesignerPackaging Engineer
CredentialsTypically a degree in graphic design, industrial design, or related fieldUsually holds a degree in packaging engineering, mechanical engineering, or industrial engineering
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, creative agencies, or in-house design teamsManufacturing facilities, R&D labs, or engineering departments
Primary FocusVisual design, branding, and aesthetic appeal of packagingStructural integrity, material selection, and functionality of packaging
Common TasksCreating packaging concepts, graphics, and prototypesDeveloping packaging structures, testing durability, and ensuring compliance

While both roles involve packaging, Packaging Designers focus on visual appeal and branding, whereas Packaging Engineers concentrate on structural design and functionality. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers identify the right fit for their skills and career goals.

What skills does a packaging designer need?

A packaging designer needs strong graphic design skills, proficiency in design software such as Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop, and an understanding of materials, manufacturing processes, and branding principles. Creativity, attention to detail, and the ability to work within project deadlines are also essential for success in this role.

What are some common challenges packaging designers face when collaborating with cross-functional teams?

Packaging Designers often work closely with marketing, product development, and manufacturing teams, and one common challenge is balancing creative vision with practical constraints such as budget, material limitations, and production timelines. Clear communication and a collaborative mindset are essential to ensure the design aligns with brand guidelines while remaining feasible for mass production. Building strong relationships with team members and being open to feedback can help Packaging Designers navigate these challenges and deliver effective, innovative solutions.

How do you get into packaging design?

To become a packaging designer, typically a bachelor's degree in graphic design, industrial design, or a related field is required. Building a strong portfolio, gaining experience with design software like Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop, and understanding manufacturing processes are important steps. Internships or entry-level positions can help develop skills and industry knowledge.

Is packaging design in demand?

Packaging design is in demand as companies seek innovative and sustainable packaging solutions to attract consumers and meet environmental standards. The role often requires proficiency in design software like Adobe Illustrator and knowledge of manufacturing processes, with opportunities across consumer goods, food, and e-commerce sectors.

What is a packaging designer?

Packaging Designers are creative professionals who conceptualize and develop the visual and structural design of product packaging. They work to ensure that packaging not only protects the product but also attracts consumers and communicates brand identity. Their responsibilities often include selecting materials, creating graphics and layouts, and collaborating with marketing and manufacturing teams to ensure functionality and appeal. Packaging Designers must balance aesthetics, cost, sustainability, and practicality in their work.

What does a packaging designer do?

A packaging designer creates physical packaging and graphic designs for various industries such as beauty products, food and beverage items, and toys. Their duties include making renderings in 2D and 3D in collaboration with product development professionals and graphic artists. They often work on the entire project, including the design specs, harmonizing the packaging with brand identity, and final production. Other responsibilities of a packaging designer are to choose the type of materials for the packaging and make modifications to samples before large-scale production. Qualifications for this position vary but typically include a bachelor’s degree in graphic design or a relevant field.

More about Packaging Designer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Packaging Designer jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Packaging Designer jobs in Tennessee are:

What are popular job titles related to Packaging Designer jobs in Tennessee?

For Packaging Designer jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Packaging Designer jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Packaging Designer jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Packaging Designer jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Packaging Designer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Packaging Designer jobs in TN?

For Packaging Designer jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Packaging Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Packaging Designer job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,388 per year, or $30 per hour.

Structural Packaging Designer

SOUTHERN CHAMPION TRAY LLC

Chattanooga, TN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Southern Champion Tray rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 119 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

All jobs at Southern Champion Tray (SCT) require Team members to act in accordance with the shared Core Values and Operating principles of the company as they perform specific job functions. These include:

  • Trustworthy – We strive for our actions to match our words in all our relationships.
  • Servant – Hearted – We enable and empower our team to serve the needs of customers, Team members, suppliers and the community.
  • Relational – We aim to build healthy relationships while fostering an environment that promotes compassion, balance, and personal and professional growth.
  • Resourceful – We value strategic insourcing, first looking to create solutions internally, and then looking to apply that knowledge to future opportunities.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITY:

Structural Design is a critical component that enables SCT to deliver best-in-class custom, retail paperboard packaging solutions for our customers. Responsible for working with the Sales and Production teams to respond to customer needs including the creation of new product designs, providing structural samples to customers, and offering creative and functional solutions to SCT customers. The Structural Designer maintains a strong working knowledge of SCT capabilities and stays current with packaging innovation and industry trends to create structural designs that meet customer needs while improving production throughput.

SECONDARY RESPONSIBILITY:

  • Collaborates & communicates with Customer Service and Sales to ensure complete information and customer specs are received and understood to provide the best solution to the customer.
  • Completes new designs in a timely manner with the knowledge of SCT’s market and customer base while managing multiple customer deadlines.
  • Designs packaging solutions within ArtiosCAD and manages and maintains project files within Esko WebCenter
  • Manages the sample process workflow to provide structural design samples to customers; cuts samples on CAD table.
  • Develops die layouts and information needed to order dies.
  • Collaborates with Customer Service and Sales to help provide pricing estimates utilizing accurate production job costs including cost of raw materials, freight, inks, tooling costs, etc; supports the Site Manager and Sales team to ensure procurement of the lowest cost, best performance corrugated materials for production.
  • Seeks opportunities for continuous improvement, offers alternative solutions to meet customer needs and challenges the status quo to bring innovative ideas to customers; continuously seeks industry knowledge and data regarding trends in the consumer goods industry including food, bakery, health & beauty, pharmaceutical and other industries.
  • Builds and maintains relationships with stakeholders across the business including Sales, Production, and Customer Service; works with Operations team on improving the production of existing items.
  • Partners with Sales team as needed to consult customer on packaging designs and solutions, accompanying them to customer meetings when necessary.
  • Supports other structural design projects and needs across different locations as needed to meet customer needs.

QUALIFICATIONS:

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Packaging Design, Business, or related field or experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
  • Minimum of 5 years structural design experience including the paperboard / folding carton industry.
  • Must be proficient in Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and CAD software; ArtiosCAD or similar CAD Design software preferred.
  • Strong working knowledge of paperboard substrates and folding carton design.

• Portfolio of designs created required for consideration.

LANGUAGE SKILLS: Must have the ability to read and understand complex documents

What Southern Champion Tray employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom