Graphic Designer (Packaging)

Smdtechnologies; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 400 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading consumer electronics firm in Johannesburg seeks a Mid-Level Packaging Designer. This role involves designing retail packaging, preparing print-ready artwork, and ensuring brand consistency across multiple product categories. Applicants should have 3-5 years of packaging design experience, ideally in FMCG, and strong skills in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. The company offers a dynamic work environment with ample opportunities for creative professionals to thrive.

Benefits

Free coffee

Free on-site gym access

Performance-based rewards

Structured workflows

Qualifications

• 3–5 years’ experience in packaging design, preferably in retail or FMCG.
• Strong proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite.
• Solid understanding of print production and packaging constraints.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop retail packaging across multiple brands.
• Prepare print‑ready artwork including correct specifications.
• Collaborate with various teams to manage multiple projects.

Skills

Packaging design experience

Adobe Illustrator

Photoshop

InDesign

Attention to detail

Job description

Mid-Level Packaging Designer

Location: Edenvale, Johannesburg (In-office)

Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 08:00 – 17:00

About SMD Technologies

SMD Technologies is a leading distributor and brand owner of consumer electronics and lifestyle products across South Africa and international markets. Our portfolio spans multiple in-house brands and categories, with a strong focus on quality, consistency, and scalable design systems.

About the Role

We’re looking for a mid-level Packaging Designer who understands commercial design, production realities, and brand consistency—and who can confidently take packaging from brief to print‑ready artwork.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop retail packaging across multiple product categories and brands
• Apply and interpret brand guidelines accurately across packaging ranges
• Prepare print‑ready artwork, including correct dielines, bleeds, CMYK conversion, and image retouching
• Deep‑etch, retouch, and quality‑check product imagery supplied by local and international suppliers
• Ensure accuracy of specifications, features, warnings, barcodes, and legal requirements
• Collaborate closely with Product Development, Traffic, Marketing, and Quality Control team
• Manage multiple packaging projects simultaneously while meeting deadline
• Implement feedback efficiently and maintain high design and technical standards
• Adhere to internal SOPs, workflows, and approval processes

Required Skills & Experience

• 3–5 years’ experience in packaging design (retail or FMCG experience advantageous)
• Strong proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign
• Solid understanding of print production, dielines, finishes, and packaging constraints
• High attention to detail and strong quality‑control mindset
• Ability to work methodically under pressure and manage multiple SKUs/projects
• Comfortable working in a structured, process‑driven environment
• Strong communication skills and ability to take direction and feedback constructively

Advantageous (But Not Essential)

• Experience with consumer electronics or technical products
• Knowledge of international packaging requirements (warnings, compliance icons, multilingual layouts)
• Experience working with Asian suppliers or factory‑supplied assets
• Experience working with international brands like Disney, Nickelodeon, DC, or similar.

What We Offer

• The chance to work on some of the funkiest and biggest audio and homewares brands in South Africa (and the world).
• Free coffee
• Free on‑site gym access
• Active sports clubs and social environment
• Performance‑based rewards and incentives
• Opportunity to work across multiple established brands and high‑volume product ranges
• Structured workflows, clear expectations, and growth opportunities

Equal Opportunity Employer

SMD Technologies is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles of employment equity. In accordance with the Company’s Employment Equity Plan and the requirements of the Employment Equity Act, preference may be given to suitably qualified candidates from designated groups. Applications from persons with disabilities are encouraged.