Packaging Designer

Accessories Packaging Designer 

About the job:

As the Packaging Designer, you will work closely with Merchandising and Accessories Design teams as well as cross-functional teams to create cost-effective, attractive, functional, and safe packaging for various brands under the PEI umbrella. Responsibilities will include assisting in the conceptualization, design, and execution of physical and digital packaging prototypes that capture attention and drive excitement within the different accessories brands. By utilizing design elements, color, graphics and imagery, you will craft packaging that resonates within our target markets. In this role, you will influence all consumer-facing packaging design initiatives within our accessories department.

What you will do:

• Develop innovative packaging design graphics, how to play guides and assembly pamphlets
• Strong knowledge of packaging design structures that can be mass-produced
• Communicate information on materials and packaging design to cross-functional teams
• Knowledge of production process and design files accordingly
• Demonstrate understanding of packaging design and material cost
• Actively research consumer and market trends and apply them to packaging design and materials
• Strong knowledge of materials and substrates to be used in the production process
• Regularly attend and participate in meetings with accessories department and other cross-functional departments
• Retain and implement information and duties from team meetings
• Provide updates on current projects to the Manager
• Provide mentorship to other Designers and marketing teams, nurturing their packaging development skills.
• Ability to create Packaging Briefs and collaborate with the Brand and Copywriting team to finalize
• Working with Quality Control and legal to understand Warning Labels and other legal packaging requirements
• Responsible for modifying and creating packaging die lines
• Communicate project status and needs with external team members and suppliers
• Communicate with the suppliers to finalize files for production
• Demonstrate strong time management to meet development schedule needs
• Able to multitask on several priorities
• Ensure packaging designs accurately represent the company’s varying brands in unique ways that drive excitement and sales
• Work collaboratively to implement strategies cross-functionally
• Work closely with the studio to make sure products are photographed correctly for packaging needs. 
• Creation of  graphic and 3D art that can be used on packaging in place of photography
• Complete final mock-up designs using appropriate computer software
• Prep files for sales meetings, with mock-ups and copy
• 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.

What we are looking for:

• Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, art, industrial design or related field preferred
• 3 - 5 years of years of experience in packaging design in the consumer packaging industry, ideally within the toys or kids' environment ?
• Experience working with style guides and the creation of original artwork
• Strong graphic design skills
• An eye for innovation and creativity
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to develop productive professional relationships
• 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
• Basic project management skills
• Knowledge of materials and multiple manufacturing processes
• Knowledge of working with licensed brands
• Exceptional visual, verbal, and written communication skills
• 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
• Effective problem solver and critical thinker; proactive in resolving issues
• Ability to deal effectively with diverse individuals at all organizational levels in a professional manner

OTHER DESCRIPTIONS FROM OTHER JOB POSTINGS:

Skills & Abilities

• Expert skills in Adobe CC (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, Acrobat), as well as Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Excellent design, layout and typography skills.
• Knowledge of cuts, creases, perforations, folding, nature and behavior of the packaging material such as paper, corrugated sheet and other types.
• Ability to manage both small and large projects to completion.
• Excellent communication skills – written and oral.
• Ability to work under pressure to meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment with multiple priorities.
• Attention to detail and strong organizational skills - Accuracy is essential.
• Emphasis on teamwork and collaboration. Willing to pitch in however and whenever needed to accomplish goals of the department.
• Ability to work independently, using judgment on design techniques, processes and methods for performing work activities.
• Experienced with launching and building brand packaging