As the Contract Packaging Designer, you will collaborate with the packaging design team across multiple designated brands in designing cost-effective, attractive, functional, and safe packaging for our consumer products. You will be responsible for assisting in the conceptualization, design, and execution of prototypes for attention-grabbing packaging materials, using design elements such as shape, color, graphics, and typography to create packaging that resonates with our target markets. In your role, you will influence all consumer-facing design initiatives in our packing department for assigned brands. You will also act as a support for the packaging design manager and senior leadership within the team, and a mentor and trainer for junior staff.

What you will do:

Support the Packaging Design Manager throughout the design process (including brainstorming, design, prototype development, and production)
Develop innovative packaging design systems that are functional while also maintaining the aesthetics and brand integrity to meet packaging objectives
Evaluate packaging designs for fit, structure, function, suitable materials, quality, cost-effectiveness, manufacturability, transportation, industry best practices, and high standards of the brand; able to modify as needed
Recognize challenges related to structure, design, or cost and implement changes as needed without compromising the final product throughout the design process
Lead discussions with cross-functional teams throughout the development process to resolve any issues and ensure development milestones are met
Provide mentorship to Packaging Designers and Associate Packaging Designers, nurturing their skills development
Actively research and evaluate consumer and market trends and apply them to packaging design and materials
Work collaboratively to develop and implement strategies across product lines
Lead updates on current projects with cross-functional teams
Communicate with the Asia packaging team throughout all stages of development
Responsible for managing timeline requirements and maintaining schedules to support production independently
Ensure packaging designs accurately represent the company’s brand
Work collaboratively to develop and implement strategies across toy lines
Take ownership of working with outside vendors to execute projects as needed
Completing final mock-up designs using computer modeling software
Prep files for trade show mock-ups
Prepare submissions for licensor approval
Follow workflow and sign-off protocols to ensure final deliverables are error-free
Prep final files for production and work with the production team on specifics such as Pantone matching, proofing, etc.
Review print proofs and samples FEP's) before going into production

Please Note: This position is a temporary assignment with the potential for extension or conversion to a full-time role depending on performance and business needs. Conversion not guaranteed.

Supervisor Responsibilities

Manages People: No

Acts as mentor and trainer for JR-level staff

What we are looking for:

Education/ Years of Experience

Bachelor's degree in graphic design, art, industrial design, or other industry-relevant field preferred
6 years of experience in packaging design in the CPG industry
Experience working with style guides and the creation of original artwork

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Other Characteristics (KSAO’s)

Strong graphic design skills with an eye for innovation and creativity
Conceptual skills
Effective and efficient visual, verbal, and written communication skills
Working knowledge of printing processes (4 colors, spot colors, mechanical preparation, paper stock, and file formats)
Clear understanding of print expectations, including, bleeds, die lines, retouching, formats, resolution, etc.
Exhibit interest and proactively gain knowledge of the current trends/innovations as well as an understanding of the competitive marketplace in the toy industry
Computer proficiency in Microsoft Office & G-Suite
Strong proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (illustrator, photoshop, and InDesign)
Able to work cross-functionally and reciprocally with multiple departments
Able to work independently or collaboratively
Self-Motivated
Proficient project management skills
Knowledge of materials and multiple manufacturing processes
Knowledge of working with licensed brands
Able to multitask, organize, prioritize, and manage time efficiently
Demonstrates a strong design sense, including a well-developed sense of aesthetics
Can easily adapt to shifting priorities, and can manage multiple priorities at one time, while also demonstrating vigilance in keeping projects moving forward and hitting deadlines
Excellent attention to detail
Lifelong Learner
Effective problem solver and critical thinker; proactive in resolving issues
Ability to deal effectively with diverse individuals at all organizational levels in Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate and deal effectively with diverse individuals at all organizational levels in a professional manner

#LI-KL1 #LI-Onsite #LI-HYBRID

Experience

Required

6 year(s): Working with style guides and the creation of original artwork
6 year(s): Packaging Design in the CPG industry

Jazwares, LLC

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Contract Packaging Designer