Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer

Company: Menasha Corporation

Location: Lyndhurst, NJ, United States (with potential for Hartford, WI & Neenah, WI)

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Marketing Operations / Creative Services

Date Posted: June 23, 2026

Experience Level: 3-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Develop and execute innovative customer-focused design solutions that align with brand standards and business objectives for packaging and supply chain solutions.

• Create 3D concept and production renderings using specified software, adhering to retailer and customer specifications for diverse industries.

• Produce high-quality, production-ready artwork and prototypes for print, ensuring seamless integration with manufacturing processes and equipment capabilities.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including senior designers and structural designers, to deliver comprehensive visual and structural design strategies.

• Manage end-to-end design projects from concept to final output, incorporating customer feedback and performing necessary product testing and store audits.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Graphic Designer," the responsibilities clearly indicate a specialized role within packaging design, heavily involving 3D rendering and production processes. This suggests a focus on Go-To-Market (GTM) collateral and product visualization that directly supports sales and customer engagement, aligning it closely with GTM and Marketing Operations functions. The mention of "operations, equipment capabilities, pricing, and labor" points to a practical, production-oriented design role rather than purely conceptual or marketing campaign design.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, develop, and execute innovative graphic design solutions tailored to customer specifications and brand guidelines.

• Generate 3D concept and production renderings using Cinema 4D (or similar) and prepare production-ready artwork utilizing Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator for print applications.

• Design and produce high-quality samples and prototypes for client review, internal testing, and validation, ensuring functional and aesthetic requirements are met.

• Collaborate closely with senior designers and structural design teams to develop integrated packaging solutions, ensuring visual appeal and structural integrity.

• Actively participate in customer meetings, presenting design concepts, gathering feedback, and articulating design rationale to stakeholders.

• Manage the full lifecycle of design projects, from initial brief to final delivery, ensuring alignment with strategic business goals and project timelines.

• Apply practical knowledge of manufacturing operations, equipment capabilities, pricing structures, and labor requirements to optimize design outcomes for efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

• Serve as a subject matter expert in specific design areas, potentially including retail display, corrugated packaging, or plastic packaging solutions.

• Champion continuous improvement initiatives within the design process, identifying opportunities for workflow optimization, technology adoption, and enhanced efficiency.

• Conduct product testing, including physical sample cutting, assembly, and performance evaluation, to validate design concepts and ensure manufacturability.

• Integrate customer feedback and insights gathered from store audits, product testing, and client meetings into iterative design improvements and final design approvals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a strong connection to the physical product lifecycle and customer interaction points (store audits, customer meetings). This suggests the role is integral to the GTM strategy by ensuring that packaging designs are not only visually appealing but also commercially viable, manufacturable, and aligned with retail execution.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma required; an Associate's degree is preferred, ideally in Graphic Design, Visual Communications, or a related field. Experience:

• 3–5 years of progressive experience in graphic design, with a significant focus on packaging design, structural design support, or point-of-purchase (POP) display design. Required Skills:

• Exceptional proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Photoshop for creating and manipulating vector and raster graphics.

• Strong understanding of design principles, color theory, typography, and layout for print and digital applications.

• Proven ability to develop and execute production-ready artwork that meets specific printing and manufacturing requirements.

• Experience in conceptualizing and creating 3D renderings and mock-ups for design visualization and client presentations.

• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills to effectively collaborate with internal teams and external clients.

• High attention to detail, with a meticulous approach to quality control and accuracy in all design outputs.

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple design projects simultaneously, prioritize tasks, and meet strict deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Preferred Skills:

• Proficiency or familiarity with 3D design software such as Cinema 4D (ideal).

• Experience with packaging-specific design software like Artios CAD is highly advantageous.

• Understanding of corrugated and plastic packaging manufacturing processes and material capabilities.

• Familiarity with retail environments and the impact of in-store displays on consumer behavior.

• Basic knowledge of structural design principles for packaging.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for proficiency in specific design software (Illustrator, Photoshop) and the preference for 3D rendering tools (Cinema 4D, Artios CAD) are critical for candidates. The emphasis on understanding "operations, equipment capabilities, pricing, and labor" indicates that practical, production-aware design skills are paramount, differentiating this from a purely creative role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 diverse projects that demonstrate proficiency in developing production-ready artwork for print, particularly within the packaging or retail display sectors.

• Include examples of 3D concept renderings and/or production visualizations, highlighting the ability to translate 2D concepts into 3D representations using software like Cinema 4D.

• Present case studies of design projects where customer feedback or store audits directly influenced design iterations and final outcomes, demonstrating a customer-centric approach.

• Detail projects that required consideration of manufacturing constraints, operational efficiency, or cost optimization, showcasing an understanding of real-world production challenges.

• Demonstrate experience with prototyping, including the creation of physical samples or mock-ups, and ideally, the process of testing or evaluating these prototypes. Process Documentation:

• Be prepared to discuss your personal design workflow from concept generation to final file delivery, including steps for quality assurance and collaboration.

• Articulate your approach to integrating customer feedback and operational constraints into the design process to ensure successful project outcomes.

• Provide examples of how you have contributed to continuous improvement within a design team or process, whether through workflow suggestions, tool adoption, or efficiency enhancements.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role involving packaging design and production, a portfolio demonstrating practical application, 3D visualization, and an understanding of manufacturing processes is crucial. The emphasis on customer feedback integration and continuous improvement suggests a need to showcase how designs translate into tangible business results and operational efficiency.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Based on industry benchmarks for Graphic Designers with 3-5 years of experience in the New Jersey area, and considering the specialized nature of packaging design and 3D rendering, the estimated salary range is $60,000 - $80,000 per year.

📝 Enhancement Note: This salary estimate is derived from research on similar Graphic Designer roles in the Lyndhurst, NJ, metropolitan area, factoring in the specified experience level (3-5 years) and the advanced technical skills (3D rendering, packaging-specific software knowledge) required. It also accounts for the industry sector (manufacturing/packaging) and the company's established presence.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Retirement savings plan (e.g., 401(k)) with company match.

• Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning, including potential training on new design software or techniques.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offering confidential support services.

• Potential for employee discounts on company products or services. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work week, typically 40 hours.

• Primarily office-based working hours, with potential for occasional travel.

📝 Enhancement Note: The job description implies a standard 40-hour work week. Given the on-site nature, flexibility within standard business hours might be available, but overtime would likely be managed according to company policy for project demands.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Manufacturing (Packaging & Supply Chain Solutions)

Company Size: Menasha Corporation is a large enterprise, employing over 7,500 employees across North America and Europe, with operations in 112 facilities. This indicates a stable, established company with significant resources and a broad operational footprint.

Founded: Founded in 1849 and headquartered in Neenah, Wisconsin, Menasha Corporation has a long history and deep expertise in its respective industries.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer likely operates within a marketing or creative services department, potentially embedded within a larger design or product development team.

• Collaboration is expected with senior designers, structural designers, marketing managers, sales teams, and potentially production floor staff.

• The reporting structure will likely involve a Design Manager or Marketing Director. Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: Design decisions are informed by customer feedback, store audits, market trends, and performance data related to packaging effectiveness.

• Workflow Planning & Optimization: Emphasis on efficient design processes, from concept to production, incorporating continuous improvement principles.

• Automation & Efficiency: Utilization of design software and potentially other tools to streamline the creation of renderings, artwork, and prototypes, while also considering manufacturing efficiencies.

Company Website: https://www.menasha.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Menasha Corporation's dual business model (packaging and reusable packaging) and long history suggest a culture that values both innovation and stability. The size of the organization implies structured processes and opportunities for cross-departmental collaboration, which is essential for a role bridging creative design with operational realities.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an intermediate-level Graphic Designer (3-5 years experience). It requires a solid foundation in design principles and software, along with the ability to work independently on assigned projects and contribute to team efforts. The role also involves mentoring junior team members, indicating a step towards leadership.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will likely report to a Design Manager or Creative Director within the marketing or product development division. Collaboration will extend to various cross-functional teams, including Sales, Product Development, and Manufacturing.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts revenue by creating compelling packaging designs and visual assets that enhance product appeal, drive customer engagement, and support sales initiatives. By understanding operational constraints, the designer ensures that creative solutions are also commercially viable and efficiently produced, contributing to profitability and customer satisfaction.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Opportunity to deepen expertise in packaging design, 3D rendering software, and potentially structural design principles.

• Industry Specialization: Develop specialized knowledge in specific industry sectors served by Menasha Corporation (e.g., food & beverage, automotive, consumer goods).

• Leadership Development: Potential to advance into senior design roles, lead design projects, mentor junior designers, or transition into management positions.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gain valuable experience working with sales, marketing, and manufacturing teams, broadening understanding of the end-to-end product lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: The combination of design creativity with an understanding of manufacturing operations and customer feedback positions this role as a key contributor to the GTM strategy. Growth potential likely involves specializing further in packaging design or moving into project/team leadership.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is primarily office-based, likely situated within a dedicated design center or a marketing department office. However, it may also be located at a Menasha Packaging fulfillment site, suggesting an environment that is closely integrated with production and operational activities.

Office Location(s):

• Primary: MPC Lyndhurst Design Center, Lyndhurst, NJ.

• Potential: Hartford, WI; Neenah, WI.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is expected to be a professional office environment equipped with standard design tools and technology.

• Collaboration will be a key aspect, with opportunities to work closely with other designers, project managers, and cross-functional stakeholders.

• Access to advanced design software and potentially prototyping equipment will be available. Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time hours, typically Monday through Friday.

• The role requires on-site presence to facilitate collaboration, access necessary equipment, and engage directly with operational aspects of the business.

📝 Enhancement Note: The potential for placement at a fulfillment site suggests the work environment might offer direct exposure to the manufacturing floor, providing valuable context for design decisions and fostering a strong understanding of operational realities.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess qualifications and relevant experience.

• Technical Assessment: Potentially a design challenge or a portfolio review session with senior designers to evaluate technical skills, creative thinking, and problem-solving abilities. This may involve presenting case studies of past projects.

• Behavioral/Situational Interviews: Discussions focused on teamwork, communication, project management, and how you handle challenges, particularly those related to design execution, customer feedback, and operational constraints.

• Cross-Functional Interviews: Meetings with stakeholders from marketing, sales, or operations to assess cultural fit and ability to collaborate effectively.

• Final Interview: Likely with a hiring manager or department head to discuss overall fit and expectations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best showcase your skills in packaging design, 3D rendering, and print production artwork. Prioritize designs relevant to Menasha's industries.

• Highlight Process: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your approach, the tools used, your specific contributions, and the outcome. Emphasize how you incorporated feedback and addressed operational considerations.

• Quantify Impact: If possible, include metrics or demonstrable results related to the design's success (e.g., improved customer engagement, successful product launch, cost savings).

• Showcase 3D Skills: Include examples of 3D renderings and conceptualizations, explaining the software used and the benefits of this visualization approach.

• Be Prepared to Discuss: Anticipate questions about your design choices, your workflow, how you handle tight deadlines, and your understanding of manufacturing processes.

Challenge Preparation:

• If a design challenge is given, focus on understanding the brief thoroughly.

• For 3D rendering tasks, practice creating realistic mock-ups and consider various angles and lighting.

• For artwork creation, ensure files are structured for print production, adhering to best practices for color profiles and bleed.

• Be ready to articulate your design strategy and decision-making process clearly and concisely.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is critical for this role. Candidates should prepare to demonstrate not just aesthetic skill but also a practical understanding of how designs translate into manufacturable products and how they support broader business objectives.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Essential proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Photoshop for all graphic design tasks, including vector illustration, photo manipulation, and print-ready artwork creation.

• 3D Design Software: Cinema 4D (ideal) or similar 3D modeling and rendering software for creating concept visualizations, product mock-ups, and production renderings.

• Packaging Design Software: Artios CAD (preferred) or similar CAD software for structural design and 3D packaging visualization, though this may be a collaborative tool rather than a direct requirement for the Graphic Designer.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary focus, understanding how designs are tracked or evaluated (e.g., through sales performance or customer feedback) can be beneficial. CRM & Automation:

• Familiarity with project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello, Workfront) is beneficial for managing design projects and workflows.

• Understanding of any internal systems used for design asset management or approval workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, Cinema 4D, and Artios CAD highlights the essential technical toolkit for this role. Proficiency in these specific software packages is a key differentiator.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: A strong emphasis on understanding and meeting customer needs, translating them into effective design solutions that drive business success.

• Quality & Precision: A commitment to high standards in design execution, ensuring accuracy, brand consistency, and production readiness.

• Innovation: Encouraging creative thinking and the development of novel design concepts that provide a competitive edge for customers.

• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented environment where designers work effectively with colleagues across departments to achieve shared goals.

• Efficiency & Continuous Improvement: A drive to optimize design processes, adopt new technologies, and enhance overall workflow productivity.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role requires active collaboration with marketing, sales, product development, and manufacturing teams to ensure designs are aligned with business objectives and operational realities.

• Feedback-Driven: An open culture of constructive feedback, where designers are comfortable sharing work for critique and incorporating input from peers and stakeholders.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the exchange of design techniques, software tips, and industry best practices within the design team and across relevant departments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's emphasis on "possibilities" and "making things happen" suggests a proactive and solution-oriented culture. For a designer, this means being adaptable, collaborative, and focused on delivering tangible results that support the business.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creativity with Constraints: Effectively merging innovative design concepts with strict brand guidelines, customer specifications, operational feasibility, and budget limitations.

• Managing Multiple Stakeholder Needs: Navigating diverse feedback and requirements from various internal and external stakeholders, ensuring all key needs are addressed.

• Keeping Pace with Technology: Continuously learning and adapting to new design software, rendering techniques, and emerging trends in packaging and visual communication.

• Translating 2D to 3D and Vice Versa: Seamlessly moving between flat artwork and 3D concepts, ensuring consistency and accuracy throughout the design process.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Software Proficiency: Opportunities to gain advanced certifications or training in Adobe Creative Suite, Cinema 4D, and potentially Artios CAD.

• Industry Insight: Developing a deeper understanding of the packaging and supply chain industries, including material science, retail environments, and consumer behavior.

• Project Leadership: Taking on more responsibility for managing larger or more complex design projects, potentially leading to opportunities in project management or team leadership.

• Mentorship: Gaining experience in mentoring junior designers, enhancing leadership and coaching skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the dual nature of the role: creative problem-solving combined with practical application in a manufacturing context. Growth lies in deepening technical expertise and increasing project ownership.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for developing a new packaging design from initial concept to final production-ready artwork. How do you incorporate customer feedback and operational constraints?"

• "Walk us through a challenging design project where you had to balance creative vision with strict technical or budgetary limitations. What was your approach and the outcome?"

• "How do you ensure your 3D renderings accurately reflect the final product and meet retailer specifications?"

• "How do you stay updated on new design trends, software, and packaging innovations?" Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Menasha Corporation and our role in the packaging and supply chain industry?"

• "How do you approach collaboration with teams outside of design, such as sales or manufacturing?"

• "Describe a time you had to adapt your design approach based on feedback from a customer or a store audit." Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly outline the client's need, your role, the design solution, the tools used, the challenges overcome, and the results achieved.

• Emphasize Technical Skills: Be prepared to discuss your specific use of Illustrator, Photoshop, and any 3D software. Show examples of complex artwork preparation and realistic renderings.

• Highlight Operational Awareness: Explain how your designs considered manufacturing processes, material limitations, and cost-effectiveness.

• Showcase Problem-Solving: Use case studies to demonstrate how you tackled design challenges and delivered successful outcomes.

• Be Concise and Engaging: Present your work clearly and enthusiastically, allowing time for questions and discussion.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating both creative talent and a pragmatic understanding of manufacturing and business needs. The portfolio presentation is the cornerstone of this preparation.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday link.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight experience in graphic design, packaging design, 3D rendering, and proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite. Quantify achievements where possible, focusing on projects that influenced sales, improved customer engagement, or streamlined production.

• Portfolio Curation: Develop a digital portfolio that prominently features your strongest work in packaging design, print production artwork, and 3D visualizations. Ensure it clearly demonstrates your skills in Illustrator, Photoshop, and any 3D software you've used, along with case studies that address operational considerations.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, problem-solving approach, and experience with cross-functional collaboration. Be ready to discuss your portfolio in detail and answer questions about your understanding of manufacturing and customer-centric design.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Menasha Corporation's business units (Menasha Packaging and ORBIS Corporation), their product offerings, target industries, and company values. Understand their commitment to sustainability and "the power behind possible."

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.