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Packaging Designer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Sway Creative Labs is looking for a systems-minded Designer who can hold a concept and scale it - someone as comfortable setting the look of a campaign as building the Figma system that produces a ...

Sway Creative Labs is looking for a systems-minded Designer who can hold a concept and scale it - someone as comfortable setting the look of a campaign as building the Figma system that produces a ...

Sway Creative Labs is looking for a systems-minded Designer who can hold a concept and scale it -- someone as comfortable setting the look of a campaign as building the Figma system that produces a ...

Position Description The Designer is responsible for developing high-quality enhancement designs ... Prepare, log, and distribute proposal packages to Area Managers. * Participate in regular branch ...

Designer

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$46K - $93K/yr

Designer, pay based upon level and experience ($46,049-$93,189) Education and Experience: * Associate degree in applied science (AAS) drafting and computer aided design (CAD) or in civil, electrical ...

Position Description The Designer is responsible for developing high-quality enhancement designs ... Prepare, log, and distribute proposal packages to Area Managers. * Participate in regular branch ...

Position Description The Designer is responsible for developing high-quality enhancement designs ... Prepare, log, and distribute proposal packages to Area Managers. * Participate in regular branch ...

Position Description The Designer is responsible for developing high-quality enhancement designs ... Prepare, log, and distribute proposal packages to Area Managers. * Participate in regular branch ...

Support junior designers and share best practices. * Stay current with design trends and tools. * May perform other duties as assigned Qualifications * Bachelor's Degree in Graphic Design, Multimedia ...

New

$67K - $92K/yr

In addition to packaging and branding, this position plays a key role in developing advertising campaigns, providing art direction, designing catalogs and editorial materials, and ensuring production ...

Showing results 41-60

Packaging Designer information

See Virginia salary details

$36.2K

$68.1K

$93.7K

How much do packaging designer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 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.

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.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $68,148 per year, or $32.8 per hour.

Senior Packaging Engineer

Smithfield Foods

Smithfield, VA

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

If you are currently employed at Smithfield, please log into Workday and submit your application through the Jobs Hub.

Have a seat at our table. When you join Smithfield, you become part of something special - a company that's sustainably feeding people around the world, producing good food the right way with respect for our people, animals, communities and planet. With opportunities across locations and functions, a culture grounded in our Core Four values - gratitude, communication, respect and accountability - and a strong commitment to learning, collaboration, and innovation, Smithfield offers challenging and rewarding careers where you can grow, contribute and make a real impact. Apply Now!

THE VALUE YOU'LL BRING:

As the Senior Packaging Engineer, you'll play a key role in analyzing data and drafting implementation plans to optimize our production processes. Your mission is to maximize efficiencies by eliminating waste and reducing operating costs, directly impacting our bottom line. You'll be instrumental in the manufacturing of our renowned brands, including Smithfield, Eckrich, and Nathan's Famous, ensuring we meet the needs of our customers and consumers.

In this role, you'll interface with our operating facilities and suppliers to develop and implement best practices for packaging equipment and materials. Your expertise will help us maintain high standards and innovate in our packaging processes.

WHAT YOU'LL DO:

The below statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. May perform other duties as assigned.

  • Strategy and Execution: You will be responsible for designing and executing packaging technology strategies from concept to commercialization, including growth initiatives, quality improvements, productivity/cost-reduction activities, troubleshooting activities, and general packaging support, as needed. You will conduct trials to ensure efficient and effective execution.

  • Relationship Building: You will build and maintain relationships with internal and external resources in order to cost-effectively implement engineering and equipment initiatives. You will routinely communicate with members of Operations, Sales, Marketing, Sourcing, Engineering and Quality Assurance to report progress on projects and receive feedback to develop product that meet expectations.

  • Best Practices and Innovation: You will leverage best practices and capitalize on technologies with cross-functional, cross-site business applications. You will promote innovative thinking to generate unique and value-added ideas for existing or new products.

  • Equipment and Specifications: You will develop and maintain equipment specifications to determine overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) on packaging equipment.

  • Mentorship: You will act as a lead by training, mentoring, and providing guidance to less experienced packaging engineers.

WHAT WE'RE SEEKING:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions.

  • Bachelor's Degree from an accredited four-year college or university in Engineering or related field and 5+ years related experience in process and packaging equipment required; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

  • Energized by collaboration through travel to other locations depending on the initiative being executed.

OTHER SKILLS THAT MAKE YOU STAND OUT:

  • Broad knowledge of packaging materials, equipment and manufacturing processes including plant layouts.

  • Experience in the food industry, preferred.

  • General knowledge of food science, processing and manufacturing, preferred.

  • Strong oral and written communication skills.

  • Strong time management, project management, organizational skills and the ability to work independently.

  • Possesses good research and development capabilities, including experimental design, familiarity with packaging testing methodology and experience in commercialization.

  • Ability to work well with others in fast paced, dynamic environment.

  • Ability to be respectful, approachable and team oriented while building strong working relationships and a positive work environment.

  • Ability to understand and manipulate both packaging and pallet specifications.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT:

  • Mobility: Some positions may involve frequent bending, moving, lifting, and carrying materials weighing up to 50 pounds. In more physically demanding roles, this weight may go up to 70 pounds.

  • Standing: You may need to stand for up to eight hours each day, especially during site visits or meetings.

  • Weather Conditions: Depending on the job context, you might work in various weather conditions, including exposure to outdoor elements.

  • Terrain: If you visit project sites, you may encounter uneven terrain, so mobility and adaptability are essential.

IndSPR-Corp

The expected pay range for this position is $85,000 - $120,000 annually.

Smithfield Foods provides pay ranges that reflect its good faith estimate of thesalary or hourly wagethe company reasonably expects to pay for a positionat the time of hire. Individual compensation will be determined based on several factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the role, location of the position, the candidate's qualifications and experience, internal equity, external market pay for comparable positions and budget considerations. At Smithfield Foods, base pay represents only one aspect of the comprehensive total rewards package. Learn more about our benefits package here.

Relocation Package Available Yes

EEO Information

Smithfield is an equal opportunity employer committed to workplace diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, gender identity, protected veterans status, status as a disabled individual or any other protected group status or non-job characteristic as directed by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment selection process, please call us at 757-357-1595.