Senior Graphic Designer, Packaging

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Graphic Designer, Packaging Company: Forma Brands LLC Location: San Francisco, CA, US Job Type: Full-time Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design / Marketing Date Posted: February 11, 2026 Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (3-4 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead the development and execution of innovative packaging design concepts and 3D brand expressions across multiple brands within Forma Brands LLC.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with design, production, sourcing, and marketing teams to deliver elevated brand aesthetics that meet all business and product strategies.
• Manage and mentor a team of internal and contract designers and production artists, ensuring timely and high-quality delivery of all packaging projects.
• Drive creative excellence by identifying emerging trends and translating them into compelling visual designs that resonate with target audiences and evolve core brand identities.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Senior Graphic Designer with a specific focus on packaging. The responsibilities emphasize both creative execution and team/project management, indicating a need for leadership potential and a strong understanding of the end-to-end packaging design lifecycle, from concept to production. The "3D brand expression" suggests a need to think beyond flat graphics and consider the physical form and user experience of packaging.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conceptualize and develop highly creative, innovative, and strategically aligned packaging designs that reflect brand identity and product positioning.
• Collaborate closely with packaging, visual merchandising, and creative teams to integrate key messaging and design objectives into all packaging projects.
• Partner with the Creative Director to develop and present key product and seasonal packaging concepts for executive review and approval.
• Liaise with the sourcing department to ensure all packaging designs adhere to brand standards, production timelines, and budgetary constraints.
• Maintain effective cross-functional communication channels to ensure seamless project execution and stakeholder alignment.
• Oversee color correction, usage implementations, and final artwork for product photography and packaging production.
• Manage multiple packaging design projects simultaneously, prioritizing tasks to meet business needs and strict deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Lead and manage a team of internal and contract designers and production artists, providing guidance, feedback, and performance management.
• Direct and manage external vendors involved in the packaging design and production process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of individual creative contribution and leadership. The emphasis on "3D brand expression," "product componentry," and "secondary packaging" indicates a need for a designer who understands structural design principles and tactile elements, not just graphic application. The management of internal and external resources suggests a need for strong leadership and vendor management skills.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design or a related creative field is preferred.

Experience:

• Minimum of 3-4 years of dedicated experience in packaging design.
• Proven experience conceptualizing and designing product componentry and secondary packaging.
• Experience managing design projects from concept through to production, including managing timelines and budgets.
• Experience overseeing product photo shoots and ensuring brand consistency.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite: InDesign CS5 (or later), Illustrator, and Photoshop.
• Strong working knowledge of graphic design principles, including typography, composition, color theory, and layout.
• Deep understanding of various print processes, production specifications, and color proofing methods.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate creative concepts and strategic rationale effectively.
• High level of initiative, with the ability to work independently and manage multiple projects concurrently in a fast-paced setting.
• Strong organizational, prioritization, and analytical skills to manage complex projects and deadlines.
• Detail-oriented approach with the ability to work effectively under pressure and meet multiple deadlines.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with 3D design software or rendering tools for packaging visualization.
• Familiarity with sustainability best practices in packaging design.
• Experience in a consumer goods or beauty/fashion industry environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for InDesign CS5 suggests the company may use older versions of software or have legacy systems, which could be a point of consideration for candidates. The emphasis on "print processes" and "color proofing" is critical for packaging design, indicating a need for hands-on production knowledge. The "3D brand expression" implies a need for designers who can think sculpturally and understand form.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A robust portfolio showcasing a minimum of 3-4 years of professional packaging design experience, with a strong emphasis on diverse brands and product categories.
• Visual examples of conceptualization and execution of product componentry and secondary packaging designs.
• Case studies demonstrating the ability to translate brand strategy and product objectives into compelling packaging solutions.
• Samples that highlight expertise in typography, color theory, composition, and an understanding of print production processes.
• Demonstrations of 3D brand expression, illustrating how designs translate into physical product packaging.

Process Documentation:

• Evidence of managing the end-to-end packaging design process, from initial brief to final production artwork.
• Examples of collaboration with cross-functional teams (e.g., sourcing, marketing, product development) to achieve project goals.
• Documentation of how design decisions were informed by market trends, brand guidelines, and business requirements.
• Any examples of workflow optimization or process improvements within a design context.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior Packaging Designer role, the portfolio is paramount. It should not only showcase aesthetic quality but also strategic thinking, problem-solving abilities, and a deep understanding of the technical aspects of packaging production. Candidates should be prepared to discuss the "why" behind their design choices and the impact of their work.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for Senior Graphic Designers specializing in Packaging in the San Francisco, CA area, with 3-4 years of experience, the estimated salary range is $85,000 - $115,000 per year. This estimation considers the high cost of living in San Francisco, the specialized nature of packaging design, and the senior level of the role.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Paid time off (PTO), including vacation days, sick leave, and holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuing education in design and packaging.
• Potential for participation in employee stock options or profit-sharing programs (company dependent).
• Employee discounts on Forma Brands' product lines.
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with company match.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours, typically 40 hours per week.
• Flexibility may be available, but the role is primarily on-site, requiring consistent presence during core business hours for team collaboration and project oversight.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on industry data for similar roles in San Francisco. Actual compensation will depend on the candidate's specific experience, skills, and Forma Brands LLC's internal compensation structure. Benefits are standard for a company of this size and industry.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: The beauty and lifestyle industry, with a focus on developing and marketing consumer brands. Forma Brands LLC is known for its portfolio of brands, often in the cosmetics and accessories space. Company Size: While specific numbers for Forma Brands LLC are not provided, it is a significant player in its industry, suggesting a mid-to-large sized organization with established processes and a dedicated creative department. Founded: Founded in 2018, Forma Brands is a relatively young but rapidly growing company. This implies a dynamic, fast-paced environment that values innovation and agility.

Team Structure:

• The Senior Packaging Designer will likely be part of a larger Creative or Design department.
• This role involves managing a team of designers and production artists, suggesting a hierarchical structure within the creative function.
• Close collaboration is expected with Brand Management, Marketing, Product Development, Sourcing, and potentially external agencies or vendors.

Methodology:

• Data-driven design approach, informed by market trends, consumer insights, and brand performance metrics.
• Emphasis on collaboration and cross-functional teamwork to ensure cohesive brand experiences.
• Focus on innovation and staying ahead of industry trends in packaging design and material usage.
• Agile project management methodologies to accommodate fast-paced product development cycles.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: As a relatively new and fast-growing company in the beauty sector, Forma Brands LLC likely fosters a culture of innovation, speed, and responsiveness. The Senior Packaging Designer will need to be comfortable in such an environment, contributing to brand growth and adapting to evolving market demands.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior Graphic Designer role with a specialization in packaging. It sits above junior or mid-level designers and typically involves greater responsibility, autonomy, and potentially team leadership. It's a critical role within the GTM (Go-To-Market) process, directly impacting product presentation and consumer perception. Reporting Structure: The role reports to a Creative Director or Senior Manager of Packaging Design. The Senior Packaging Designer is responsible for managing a team of designers and production artists, including internal staff and external contractors. Operations Impact: Packaging design is a crucial component of the Go-To-Market strategy. The Senior Packaging Designer's work directly influences product appeal on shelves (physical and digital), brand recognition, consumer purchasing decisions, and ultimately, revenue. Effective packaging can enhance brand perception, drive sales, and reduce returns due to misrepresentation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Expansion: Potential to grow into a Creative Director or Head of Packaging Design role, overseeing larger teams and strategic creative direction.
• Brand Portfolio Management: Opportunity to take on responsibility for a broader range of brands or more complex product lines.
• Strategic Input: Increased involvement in upstream product development and brand strategy discussions, influencing product concepts from an early stage.
• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like sustainable packaging, luxury packaging, or structural design.
• Mentorship: Develop leadership and mentorship skills by guiding junior designers.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career progression within a creative operations or GTM function, moving from execution and team management to strategic leadership and broader brand oversight.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site role, indicating a traditional office environment where collaboration and in-person interaction are key. This is common for design roles that require hands-on work, material review, and spontaneous brainstorming. Office Location(s): San Francisco, CA, specifically at 49 Stevenson Street, 94105. This places the office in a major business district, likely with access to amenities and public transportation.

Workspace Context:

• A collaborative office space designed to foster teamwork among designers, marketers, and product teams.
• Access to necessary design software, hardware, and potentially a physical sample library for packaging materials and mock-ups.
• Opportunities for direct interaction with colleagues, leading to a dynamic and responsive creative workflow.
• Potential for a dedicated design studio area within the office.

Work Schedule:

• The role is on-site, implying a consistent presence during standard business hours (e.g., 9 AM - 5 PM PST).
• While the core hours are fixed, there might be some flexibility depending on project demands, but the expectation is on-site availability for collaborative tasks and team meetings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is a key factor for candidates, emphasizing the importance of in-person collaboration and access to physical resources like sample materials and mock-up studios.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or Recruiter will review applications and resumes for basic qualifications.
• Portfolio Review: Candidates will be asked to submit a portfolio. This is a critical step where the hiring team assesses design quality, creativity, technical proficiency, and relevance to packaging design.
• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the direct manager (likely Creative Director or Senior Manager) to delve deeper into experience, design philosophy, project management skills, and team leadership capabilities.
• Team/Cross-Functional Interview: Meeting with potential peers or cross-functional collaborators (e.g., marketing, sourcing) to assess cultural fit, communication style, and collaborative abilities.
• Presentation/Design Challenge (Potential): Candidates might be asked to present a case study from their portfolio or complete a small design challenge related to packaging concepts.
• Final Interview: Potentially with a higher-level executive for final approval.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your strongest packaging design projects that best represent your skills, process, and impact. Prioritize projects that align with Forma Brands' industry (beauty/lifestyle) and demonstrate a range of capabilities (e.g., structural understanding, graphic application, brand evolution).
• Showcase the Process: For each project, go beyond just showing the final artwork. Include mood boards, sketches, concept development, material considerations, and problem-solving steps. Explain your rationale behind design decisions.
• Highlight Technical Prowess: Clearly articulate your role in the project and demonstrate your understanding of print processes, die-lines, color correction, and production constraints.
• Quantify Impact: If possible, include metrics or outcomes related to your packaging designs (e.g., increased sales, improved shelf presence, positive consumer feedback).
• Format for Clarity: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, easy to navigate, and visually appealing. A PDF format or a dedicated online portfolio website is ideal.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss your approach to a packaging design brief, including initial research, concept generation, and refinement.
• Practice articulating your design decisions and how they align with brand strategy and business objectives.
• Prepare to discuss your experience managing projects, timelines, and external vendors.
• Think about how you would approach a design problem for a beauty or lifestyle brand, considering current trends and consumer expectations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio review is the most crucial stage for this role. Candidates should be prepared to defend their design choices and demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the packaging design lifecycle, from concept to production.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite:
  • InDesign CS5 (or later): Essential for layout, typography, and preparing print-ready files.
  • Illustrator: Critical for vector graphics, logo creation, and detailed illustration work specific to packaging.
  • Photoshop: Used for image manipulation, color correction, mock-up creation, and digital rendering.
• Microsoft Office Suite:
  • Word: For correspondence and documentation.
  • Excel: For project tracking, budget management, and data analysis.
  • PowerPoint: For presentations and concept proposals.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly mentioned, familiarity with tools that analyze market trends or consumer preferences could be beneficial.

CRM & Automation:

• Likely not directly used by a graphic designer, but understanding how design integrates with marketing or sales platforms might be helpful.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in the Adobe Creative Suite, particularly InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop, is non-negotiable. The specific mention of InDesign CS5 suggests that candidates should be aware of potential legacy software usage within the organization.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Innovation: A strong emphasis on original ideas and pushing creative boundaries in packaging design.
• Brand Integrity: Dedication to upholding and evolving brand identity and visual standards across all product lines.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: A culture that values open communication and cross-functional partnerships to achieve shared goals.
• Detail-Orientation & Quality: A commitment to precision, accuracy, and high-quality execution in all design deliverables.
• Agility & Responsiveness: Ability to adapt quickly to changing market demands and project requirements in a fast-paced industry.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Expected to work closely with marketing, product development, sourcing, and sales teams, acting as a key liaison for packaging design.
• Feedback-Driven: Open to constructive criticism and iterative design processes, engaging in discussions to refine concepts.
• Proactive Communication: Regularly updating stakeholders on project progress, potential challenges, and design solutions.
• Mentorship & Knowledge Sharing: As a senior member, contributing to the growth of junior designers through guidance and sharing expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at Forma Brands LLC likely reflects the dynamic nature of the beauty industry – fast-paced, trend-driven, and highly collaborative. A Senior Packaging Designer will need to be a team player who can also lead and inspire.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Fast-Paced Environment: The beauty industry demands rapid turnaround times, requiring efficient workflow management and the ability to deliver high-quality work under pressure.
• Balancing Brand Consistency with Innovation: Evolving packaging designs to stay fresh and relevant while maintaining core brand identity can be a delicate balance.
• Technical Production Constraints: Translating creative concepts into manufacturable packaging that meets budget and material limitations requires strong technical knowledge and problem-solving.
• Managing Multiple Brands: Juggling the distinct visual languages and strategic needs of various brands within Forma Brands' portfolio.
• Leading and Developing a Team: Effectively mentoring designers and production artists, fostering their growth while ensuring project success.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Industry Trends: Staying abreast of the latest advancements in packaging materials, printing techniques, sustainability, and consumer-facing design trends.
• Advanced Software Skills: Opportunities to learn new design software or advanced techniques within existing tools.
• Brand Strategy: Deeper involvement in understanding overall brand strategy and how packaging contributes to business objectives.
• Leadership Training: Developing management and mentorship skills through formal or informal training.
• Networking: Attending industry events and conferences to connect with peers and learn from other creative leaders.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents an opportunity for significant professional growth, not just in design execution but also in leadership and strategic contribution within a vibrant consumer goods company.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for developing a new packaging concept from initial brief to final artwork. How do you incorporate brand strategy and market research?"
• "Walk me through a challenging packaging project you managed. What were the obstacles, how did you overcome them, and what was the outcome?"
• "How do you ensure brand consistency across multiple product lines or brands, especially when dealing with different packaging formats?"
• "What are your thoughts on sustainable packaging practices, and how would you integrate them into design solutions?"
• "How do you approach managing a team of designers and production artists, and what is your philosophy on mentorship?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Forma Brands LLC and our brand portfolio? What excites you about working with our brands?"
• "How do you stay current with design trends in the beauty and lifestyle industries?"
• "Describe your ideal collaborative environment. How do you work with marketing, product development, and sourcing teams?"
• "How do you handle constructive criticism on your designs?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell a Story: For each project presented, frame it as a narrative: the challenge, your solution, and the result.
• Highlight Your Role: Be clear about your specific contributions, especially if it was a collaborative effort.
• Showcase Process: Include sketches, mood boards, and explanations of your thought process. Demonstrate an understanding of structural considerations and print production.
• Quantify Impact: If possible, share data points or feedback that illustrate the success of your packaging designs.
• Be Prepared for Questions: Anticipate questions about your design choices, technical skills, and problem-solving approach.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to discuss both their creative and managerial capabilities, demonstrating a strong understanding of the packaging design lifecycle and the ability to lead a creative team.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Graphic Designer, Packaging position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Forma Brands LLC careers portal (recruiting.paylocity.com).
• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio specifically highlights your most relevant packaging design projects, demonstrating experience with product componentry, secondary packaging, and 3D brand expression. Tailor your presentation to showcase your understanding of the beauty/lifestyle industry.
• Resume Optimization: Update your resume to emphasize your 3-4+ years of packaging design experience, proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (mentioning InDesign CS5 specifically if you have experience), project management skills, and any team leadership accomplishments. Use keywords from the job description.
• Interview Preparation: Practice discussing your design process, portfolio case studies, and approach to managing design teams. Be ready to articulate your understanding of print production and brand strategy.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Forma Brands LLC's current brand portfolio, their market position, and any recent product launches or design initiatives. Understand their aesthetic and target audience.

⚠️ 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.