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Product Packaging Designer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

IFR is a leader in the design and mass production of custom, returnable material handling systems ... This role involves designing innovative, cost-effective packaging solutions by collaborating with ...

Product Designer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$70 - $100/hr

Position: Product Designer Location: Auburn Hills - Technology Center, MI Job Id: 2038 # of ... US Farathane offers an impressive compensation and benefits package, including: * Medical, Dental ...

Product Designer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$85 - $105/hr

Position: Product Designer Location: Auburn Hills - Technology Center, MI Job Id: 2038 # of ... US Farathane offers an impressive compensation and benefits package, including: * Medical, Dental ...

You'll take packaging designs through early concept through first production, distribution, and end of life, partnering with teams across product development, quality, manufacturing, supply chain ...

You'll take packaging designs through early concept through first production, distribution, and end of life, partnering with teams across product development, quality, manufacturing, supply chain ...

The Product Designer must be able to create all CAD files using Catia V5/V6 to the customer ... US Farathane offers an impressive compensation and benefits package, including: * Medical, Dental ...

Waltonen Engineering is actively seeking several NX Product Designers to join our team ... Experience in modeling from assembly drawings/packages * Sheet Metal and/or structural design ...

Waltonen Engineering is actively seeking several NX Product Designers to join our team ... Experience in modeling from assembly drawings/packages * Sheet Metal and/or structural design ...

Packaging Design Engineer

Madison Heights, MI · On-site

$125K/yr

The Engineer will design, test and implement packaging designs to jointly develop and design derivative and new product concepts for JSP and its customers and to meet the needs of all key ...

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Product Packaging Designer information

See Michigan salary details

$43.6K

$125.8K

$179.6K

How much do product packaging designer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for product packaging designer in Michigan is $125,823.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $114,200.00 and $135,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a product packaging designer do?

A Product Packaging Designer is responsible for creating the visual and structural design of product packaging. They collaborate with marketing, branding, and production teams to ensure the packaging is both attractive and functional, while also protecting the product. Their work involves selecting materials, colors, graphics, and typography to convey the brand's message and appeal to consumers. Additionally, they consider factors such as sustainability, cost, and regulatory requirements during the design process.

What are some common challenges product packaging designers face when balancing creativity with practical constraints?

Product Packaging Designers often need to strike a balance between creating visually appealing designs and meeting practical requirements such as cost, material limitations, manufacturing capabilities, and regulatory compliance. It can be challenging to innovate within these boundaries while ensuring the packaging protects the product and aligns with brand standards. Effective designers collaborate closely with marketing, production, and logistics teams to ensure their concepts are both creative and feasible for mass production.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a product packaging designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Product Packaging Designer, you need strong graphic design skills, an understanding of materials and manufacturing processes, and typically a degree in graphic design or a related field. Proficiency in design software such as Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign) and knowledge of 3D modeling tools are commonly required. Creativity, attention to detail, collaboration, and problem-solving are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure that packaging is visually appealing, functional, cost-effective, and aligned with brand identity, which is critical for product success and customer engagement.

What is the difference between Product Packaging Designer vs Packaging Engineer?

AspectProduct Packaging DesignerPackaging Engineer
CredentialsDesign degrees, certifications in graphic design or packaging designEngineering degrees, certifications in packaging engineering or materials science
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, marketing departments, product development teamsManufacturing facilities, R&D labs, production lines
Industry UsageConsumer goods, retail, branding-focused companiesIndustrial manufacturing, logistics, supply chain companies

Product Packaging Designers focus on the visual appeal, branding, and user experience of packaging, primarily working on design concepts. Packaging Engineers concentrate on the structural integrity, materials, and manufacturing processes of packaging. Both roles collaborate to ensure packaging is both attractive and functional, but their core responsibilities and skill sets differ.

How much do product packaging designers earn?

Product packaging designers typically earn between $45,000 and $75,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level designers may start lower, while experienced professionals or those working in specialized sectors can earn higher salaries. Skills in graphic design software and a strong portfolio can influence earning potential.

How to get into product packaging design?

To become a product 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 portfolio with packaging projects and gaining experience with design software like Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop are essential. Knowledge of manufacturing processes and sustainability considerations can also enhance job prospects.

What qualifications do you need to be a product packaging designer?

Product packaging designers typically need a bachelor's degree in graphic design, industrial design, or a related field. Strong skills in design software such as Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop, along with an understanding of materials and manufacturing processes, are essential. A portfolio showcasing previous packaging projects is also important for employment opportunities.

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

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

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

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

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Product Packaging Designer jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Product Packaging Designer job openings:

Infographic showing various Product Packaging Designer job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Internship, 71% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,823 per year, or $60.5 per hour.

Packaging Designer

IFR Inc.

Zeeland, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Design and develop custom returnable material handling systems using SolidWorks, including creating 3D models, assemblies, and technical drawings.

  • Create and modify innovative packaging products, build prototypes, and test designs for integrity and compatibility.

  • Collaborate with sales, production, and other teams to ensure design alignment and translate client requirements into manufacturable solutions.


Job description

Summary:

IFR is a leader in the design and mass production of custom, returnable material handling systems utilizing multi-material assemblies like textiles, plastics, foams, and steel. We specialize in providing innovative, engineered packaging solutions for high-stakes industries including automotive, aerospace, and electronics, ensuring the safe transport of delicate components.

This role involves designing innovative, cost-effective packaging solutions by collaborating with sales and production teams to develop technical drawings and prototypes. You will leverage a strong understanding of materials and structural design to manage multiple projects while ensuring compliance with industry standards.

Status: Exempt, Full-time & In-Person (Zeeland, MI)

Responsibilities:

  • Lead the end-to-end development of custom returnable material handling systems, utilizing SolidWorks to create complex 3D models, assemblies, and detailed technical drawings.
  • Create innovative new products and modify existing designs.
  • Evaluate and test industrial textiles, foams, plastics, and hardware to ensure compatibility with heavy-duty sewing applications and long-term returnable cycles.
  • Act as the primary technical point of contact for customer inquiries, translating complex client requirements into functional, manufacturable designs.
  • Conceptualize, build physical prototypes, and test product for design integrity.
  • Apply advanced engineering principles to resolve design challenges, leveraging professional experience to implement creative solutions for protective packaging.
  • Work with minimal supervision to define project scope and technical approaches, serving as the lead designer as required.
  • Guide junior designers and technicians on best practices for 3D modeling standards and industrial sewing manufacturing constraints.
  • Build and maintain strategic relationships with production teams, sales, and end-users to ensure design alignment.
  • Maintain high organizational standards through meticulous file management in SolidWorks (PDM).
  • Ability to navigate company's ERP system.
  • Implement risk mitigation strategies by identifying potential points of failure in designs to minimize company exposure and production waste.

 Requirements:

  • Computer Aided Design (CAD) capability. SolidWorks experience. 
  • Must have the ability to develop, design, draw and interpret CAD drawings. 
  • Must be able to envision 3D and isometric images mentally.
  • Ability to understand, communicate, read, and write in English.
  • Ability to proficiently use Excel and other Microsoft 365 applications.
  • Ability to learn and navigate company's ERP software.
  • Valid driver’s license and passport, or ability to obtain a passport.
  • Ability to travel internationally, as required.
  • Able to lift and/or move up to 25 lbs. occasionally. 

Qualifications:

  • 3-5 years of relevant experience and/or training, preferably in the industrial packaging environment. 
  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.
  • High attention to detail and strong reliability.
  • Thrives in a fast-paced environment.
  • Demonstrated ability to optimize processes and workflows.

Benefits:

  • Medical, Dental, & Vision Insurance
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • 9 Paid Holidays
  • 401(k) Plan & Company Match
  • Bonus Plan
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Company-Paid Wellness Program
  • Company-Paid Short/Long-Term Disability
  • Company-Paid Group Life & AD&D insurance

IFR logo

About IFR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Plastics packaging film and sheet (including laminated) manufacturing

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Zeeland, MI, US

Year founded

1992

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