Hire a Packaging Designer
The design of a product package is one of the factors that can attract a customer to the product. A package designer is a creative individual who makes a product look attractive to customers. They also ensure that the packaging is safe and cost-effective, as well as environment friendly. The position of a packaging designer is a vital part of any company with a retail arm. The designer essentially creates a packaging solution that assists in the sale of more products. They usually work on their own, with minimal supervision, in an office setting. In larger companies with a separate design department, they work with designers of multiple departments. Employers pay an average salary of $55,000 per year, along with other benefits. Experienced designers can be promoted to a senior designer or move into the role of a structural packaging designer.
Assigned duties and tasks
A packaging designer is responsible for creating a package that follows the brand story, is eye-catching, meets consumer safety guidelines, and does not exceed the allotted budget. Thus, they have to keep in mind the business side of things as well. They start with facilitating ideas, concept, execution, and implementation of the design process. Using hand sketches, verbal cues, and design software, designers prepare the mock-up designs. These then get presented to the stakeholders and company managers. To get the work done effectively under strict deadlines, they usually have to collaborate frequently with the product design and marketing teams. They must also coordinate with the graphic designers and copywriters to finalize texts and graphics. In addition, they have to meet suppliers to identify suitable packaging materials and conduct feasibility studies. Other duties of the job role include participating in progress meetings and undertaking quality checks before production. For improving designs, materials and processes are researched and specifications are developed to create a standardized packaging solution.
Requirements of the role
A top-class packaging designer should have the ability to analyze market trends and create a design that is both eye-catching and functional. To succeed in this role, they must possess a range of skills and know industry-standard design software programs. Ideally, applicants should have a bachelor’s degree in industrial design, graphic design, art, or a related field. Industry and design certifications are a plus. In addition to proven experience as a packaging designer, some employers prefer candidates with experience in marketing. They must also be proficient with design software and usability rules. A successful packaging designer must have a natural talent for design with a keen eye for detail. Familiarity with various packaging materials and expertise with market research and product placement advertising are critical requirements. The designer must keep abreast of consumer packaging health and safety regulations. Other essential traits are the ability to multitask, excellent communication and presentation skills, along with good organization and problem-solving skills.
