Lead Packaging Designer - Remote

About Cella

Cella, part of Randstad Digital, is a premier staffing and workforce solutions provider serving diverse industries. The company is recognized for its dedication to excellence and diversity, connecting talented professionals with dynamic organizations to drive growth and success. Leveraging technology and industry expertise, Cella offers end-to-end services including staffing, consulting, and project-based solutions tailored to evolving client needs. The organization fosters a culture of inclusion, innovation, and integrity, creating an environment where employees thrive and contribute meaningfully.

Position Overview

We are looking for an experienced Freelance Lead Packaging Designer to join our creative team on a contract basis. This senior-level role involves leading strategic and creative aspects of packaging design for consumer packaged goods (CPG). You will collaborate closely with internal teams such as Brand Marketing, Packaging Development, Regulatory Affairs, as well as external vendors like printers and production partners. Your core responsibility will be to design impactful, consumer-focused packaging that boosts brand visibility, effectively conveys product advantages, and supports business objectives. The role demands hands-on involvement throughout the packaging lifecycle—from concept and design development through final artwork production—ensuring compliance with technical, regulatory, and quality standards. Additionally, you will contribute to refining brand systems, supporting product launches, and innovating packaging solutions aligned with market trends.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and support creative execution of packaging projects across multiple brands and categories.
• Develop packaging concepts and designs for new launches, renovations, line extensions, and promotional efforts, adhering to brand guidelines and consumer insights.
• Translate marketing strategies into compelling visual packaging assets that communicate product benefits and enhance shelf presence.
• Refine existing packaging systems to maintain brand consistency and relevance.
• Prepare production-ready artwork that complies with regulatory standards and technical specifications.
• Collaborate with packaging engineers, printers, and external partners to ensure accurate execution from concept to production.
• Manage revisions and updates of packaging materials as needed.
• Work closely with Brand Marketing, Product Development, and Regulatory teams to integrate consumer insights, market trends, and technical requirements.
• Stay current on industry trends, materials, and sustainability practices to innovate and improve packaging solutions.
• Provide creative oversight for related visual assets such as photography, illustrations, and renders to ensure brand cohesion across channels.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design or related discipline.
• 5-7 years of professional experience in packaging design within fast-paced CPG, agency, or studio environments.
• Strong portfolio demonstrating innovative packaging designs, visual systems, and consumer-focused solutions.
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, especially Adobe Illustrator; familiarity with Adobe Firefly or similar AI tools is a plus.
• Solid understanding of print production workflows, including mechanical artwork preparation and print-ready file standards.
• Exceptional attention to detail and strong communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects efficiently and work collaboratively with cross-functional teams and external vendors.

Benefits

• Access to medical, dental, vision, and prescription coverage.
• Life insurance and accidental death & dismemberment (AD&D) benefits.
• Short-term disability coverage options.
• 401(k) retirement savings plan.
• Flexible work environment with telecommuting options to promote work-life balance.
• Inclusive workplace culture emphasizing diversity, innovation, and continuous learning.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

Equal Opportunity Commitment

Cella is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We prohibit discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic. We ensure a fair hiring process with reasonable accommodations available upon request for applicants requiring support during application or interviews.