Product And Packaging Designer

Pep; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 450 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading retail company in South Africa is seeking an experienced professional to design and develop innovative product and packaging solutions. The ideal candidate should have a degree in design, with 3-5 years of relevant experience in the retail sector. Strong proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and a solid understanding of sustainability practices are essential. Responsibilities include stakeholder collaboration, project management, and improving recyclability rates.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years in a similar role.
• At least 3 years of experience in Retail.
• Fluent in English.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop cost-effective product and packaging solutions.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders.
• Drive improvement in recyclability rates.

Skills

Graphic Design Software Proficiency

Understanding of Packaging Materials & Production Processes

Ability to Design Cost-effectively

Knowledge of Sustainability & Environmental Considerations

Understanding of Regulatory Compliance

Market & Consumer Research Skills

Interpersonal strengths

Personal & Conceptual Strengths

Strong negotiation and persuasion skills

Education

Degree or Diploma in Graphic Design/ Product Design/ Industrial Design

Tools

Adobe Creative Suite

Job description

Overview

PURPOSE OF THE JOB

To design, conceptualize, and develop product and packaging solutions that are cost-effective, visually appealing, and functional. These solutions are responsible for protecting products, communicating brand identity, attracting consumers, and complying with sustainability and regulatory requirements.

Responsibilities

• Improvement in Recyclability Rates
• Packaging Solutions Implemented
• Collaboration & Compliance with Internal and External Stakeholders
• Project Management
• Sales Uplift
• Cost Savings
• Administration and Ad Hoc

Qualifications

JOB INCUMBENT REQUIREMENTS

• Degree or Diploma in Graphic Design/ Product Design/ Industrial Design or related fields
• 3-5 years in similar role
• At least 3 years experience in Retail

Hard Skills (Technical)

• Design Software Proficiency: Graphic Design Software: Adobe Creative Suite, particularly Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop
• Packaging Materials & Production Processes: Deep understanding of papers and boards (paperboard, corrugated cardboard), plastics (various types), flexible packaging; knowledge of manufacturing techniques (die-cutting, printing processes such as offset, flexo, digital); understanding of finishes (varnishes, laminates, embossing, debossing, foil stamping)
• Cost-effectiveness in Design: Ability to design with production efficiency and material optimization in mind
• Graphic Design & Branding Principles: Typography, colour theory, layout and composition, branding, information hierarchy, and high standard of design
• Sustainability & Environmental Considerations: Knowledge of eco-friendly materials, design for recyclability/compostability, reduction of material usage, circular economy principles, and awareness of environmental regulations
• Regulatory Compliance: Understanding of labeling laws, regulations, consumer safety standards, and specific legal requirements (e.g. SA standards)
• Market & Consumer Research: Ability to conduct and interpret market trends, consumer preferences, and competitor analysis

Soft Skills & Competencies

• Interpersonal strengths: Stakeholder and supplier management, teamwork, collaboration, and ability to build internal and external relationships
• Personal & Conceptual Strengths: Highly conceptual and creative, proactive, ownership of projects, exceptional attention to detail, storytelling, and ability to thrive in a fast-paced, highly creative environment
• General Skills: Fluent in English; strong negotiation, persuasion, and alignment of initiatives with organizational goals
• Competencies: Accuracy, devotion to quality, results-oriented mindset, initiative, stress resistance, innovation, situational awareness