Freelance Packaging Designer, Footwear

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in New York.

📋 Description

• Create innovative and visually appealing packaging for footwear and related products that align with the identity of each brand and its target audience.

• Design a variety of packaging elements including boxes, bags, tissue, inserts, hangtags, labels, stickers, cards, wraps, and more.

• Transform creative concepts and brand guidelines into unified packaging designs across various collections.

• Develop package dielines, digital and print mockups, and 3D renderings as required.

• Convey product information, features, benefits, brand messaging, and care instructions through effective packaging solutions.

• Establish and maintain precise packaging technical specifications, covering dimensions, materials, finishes, substrates, printing methods, and production details.

• Prepare final files that are ready for factory and printer use, ensuring that artwork complies with production specifications.

• Collaborate with Design, Product Development, Merchandising, Marketing, and international factories/vendors throughout the packaging development process.

• Evaluate samples, proofs, and production materials for accuracy, color fidelity, print quality, finishes, and overall execution.

• Oversee multiple packaging projects and product launches while adhering to deadlines and production timelines.

• Generate supporting graphic assets for product launches, marketing materials, e-commerce, presentations, and other brand initiatives.

• Ensure consistency and accuracy across packaging and branded product touchpoints.

• Remain updated on packaging trends, materials, printing techniques, finishes, and sustainable packaging solutions.

• Identify opportunities to enhance packaging design, functionality, cost-effectiveness, and production processes.

⛳️ Requirements

• A minimum of 5 years of experience in packaging design, ideally within the footwear, handbags, fashion accessories, beauty, fashion, or consumer products sectors.

• A strong portfolio showcasing the capability to conceptualize, design, and execute packaging from initial concept to production.

• In-depth knowledge of packaging components, including dielines, substrates, printing processes, finishes, construction, and production requirements.

• A solid understanding of branding and graphic design principles.

• Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, especially Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign.

• Experience in creating production-ready artwork and collaborating with printers, factories, and packaging vendors.

• Proven experience in communicating packaging specifications and revisions with overseas factories/vendors.

• Familiarity with 3D rendering or visualization software is a plus.

• Knowledge of packaging materials and current industry trends is advantageous.

• Strong design, organizational, communication, and time-management skills.

• Capability to manage multiple projects at once and prioritize effectively in a fast-paced environment.

• Exceptional attention to detail with a comprehensive understanding of print production and quality control.

• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.

• A collaborative, proactive, and solutions-oriented mindset.

• Willingness to embrace change and challenges, with a focus on recommending improvements to products, packaging, and processes.

🏝️ Benefits

• Remote position.

• Project-based freelance work.