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Packaging Designer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

CPG Packaging Designer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$80K - $85K/yr

CPG Packaging Designer Location: Sterling, VA (Hybrid - 3 days in office / 2 days remote) Department: Marketing Reports To: Senior Designer Position Overview We are looking for a talented and detail ...

CPG Packaging Designer Location: Sterling, VA (Hybrid - 3 days in office / 2 days remote) Department: Marketing Reports To: Senior Designer Position Overview We are looking for a talented and detail ...

CPG Packaging Designer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$80K - $85K/yr

CPG Packaging Designer Location: Sterling, VA (Hybrid - 3 days in office / 2 days remote) Department: Marketing Reports To: Senior Designer Position Overview We are looking for a talented and detail ...

As a Package Designer at Dollar Tree, you'll be responsible for designing, executing, and ... Format packaging layouts, including graphics, typography, photography, illustrations, and ...

As a Package Designer at Dollar Tree, you'll be responsible for designing, executing, and ... Format packaging layouts, including graphics, typography, photography, illustrations, and ...

Create advanced packaging designs from concept through final release, including detailed CAD documentation (SolidWorks or Creo) for primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging * Develop and maintain ...

Experience with video editing or motion graphics is a plus. \n \n \n Benefits \n \n \n \n \n Imperative Systems offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support our team members and their ...

Experience with video editing or motion graphics is a plus. \n \n \n Benefits \n \n \n \n \n Imperative Systems offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support our team members and their ...

At C 2 Technologies, we support our team with a comprehensive benefits package designed to enhance your overall well-being. We offer comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance options ...

Comprehensive benefits package, including 401K, medical, dental, and vision care, available from ... Facilitate thorough reviews of initial designs of medium complexity, ensuring that value-engineered ...

Comprehensive benefits package, including 401K, medical, dental, and vision care, available from ... Facilitate thorough reviews of initial designs of medium complexity, ensuring that value-engineered ...

Comprehensive benefits package, including 401K, medical, dental, and vision care, available from ... Facilitate thorough reviews of initial designs of medium complexity, ensuring that value-engineered ...

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Showing results 1-20

Packaging Designer information

See Virginia salary details

$36.2K

$68.1K

$93.7K

How much do packaging designer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for packaging designer in Virginia is $68,148.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,500.00 and $80,800.00 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.

How to get a job designing packaging?

To become a packaging designer, develop skills in graphic design, 3D modeling, and understanding of materials, often through a degree in graphic design, industrial design, or a related field. Building a strong portfolio showcasing packaging projects and gaining experience with design software like Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop can improve job prospects. Networking and applying to companies in consumer goods, retail, or packaging firms are common steps to secure a position.

What does a package designer do?

A packaging designer creates the visual and structural design of product packaging to attract consumers and communicate brand identity. They use design software like Adobe Illustrator and collaborate with manufacturers to ensure the packaging is functional, safe, and meets industry standards. The role often requires knowledge of materials, printing processes, and sustainability considerations.

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 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 working in specialized industries earning higher. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and the complexity of projects, and many packaging designers use design software like Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop as part of their work.

What are Packaging Designers?

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.

How do you become a packaging designer?

To become a packaging designer, typically a bachelor's degree in graphic design, industrial design, or a related field is required. Developing skills in design software like Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop, building a strong portfolio, and gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions are important steps in the process.

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Packaging Designer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Packaging Designer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Packaging Designer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Packaging Designer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Packaging Designer jobs in VA? For Packaging Designer jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Packaging Designer job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, 32% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $68,148 per year, or $32.8 per hour.
CPG Packaging Designer

CPG Packaging Designer

Cuisine Solutions

Sterling, VA • On-site

$80K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Cuisine Solutions rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

108th of 432 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Job Title: CPG Packaging Designer
Location: Sterling, VA (Hybrid - 3 days in office / 2 days remote)
Department: Marketing
Reports To: Senior Designer
Position Overview
We are looking for a talented and detail-oriented CPG Packaging Designer to join our creative team. In this mid-level role, you will own the end-to-end packaging design process from structural development and material selection through final print production for our retail and consumer-facing product lines. You will collaborate closely with internal stakeholders and external printing vendors to ensure every package meets the highest standards of quality, brand consistency, and functionality.
Key Responsibilities
Packaging Design, Development & Commercialization
  • Design compelling packaging artwork for retail and consumer product lines.
  • Create 3D packaging mockups for internal reviews, presentations, and client approvals.
  • Develop packaging structures, dielines, and material specifications, including comprehensive Bill of Materials (BOMs) and technical packaging specifications, ensuring high manufacturability and cost-efficiency across supply chain systems.
  • Partner with cross-functional teams at packaging line trials and production start-ups, actively monitoring machinery capabilities to ensure proper execution of the design and structural requirements.
  • Travel to printing vendors for first-run press checks and production oversight (approximately once per month).

Optimization & Sustainability
  • Identify, investigate, and lead cost-reduction initiatives on packaging materials and design improvements without compromising technical packaging requirements.
  • Ensure all packaging complies with regulatory, legal, and brand guidelines.
  • Partner with cross-functional teams to integrate innovative, sustainable materials into the portfolio to reduce the company's environmental footprint

Cross-Functional Collaboration & Project Management
  • Coordinate seamlessly with cross-functional teams and external vendors to drive packaging projects from brief to commercial launch.
  • Build and manage comprehensive project timelines, effectively communicating milestones, capital expenditure estimates, and associated technical risks to functional leaders.
  • Manage relationships and coordinate directly with printing vendors on structure, materials, finishes, and production requirements.
  • Collaborate with the broader design team to support additional creative projects as needed, including digital assets, marketing collateral, and presentations

Qualifications
Required
  • 3-5 years of experience in CPG packaging design
  • Proficiency in the Adobe Creative Suite, specifically Illustrator and Photoshop
  • Solid understanding of packaging production processes, print specifications, and material types
  • Experience creating 3D mockups using Blender or comparable 3D software
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
  • Comfortable traveling to vendor facilities approximately once a month

Preferred
  • Experience with Canva for internal content and templated design needs
  • Familiarity with AI-powered design tools (e.g., Adobe Firefly, Gemini Nano Banana, or similar)
  • Proficiency with Microsoft 365 tools including PowerPoint, Teams, and Outlook
  • Experience in the food and beverage or CPG industry is a plus

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