Junior Packaging Artwork Designer / Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Junior Packaging Artwork Designer / Graphic Designer

Company: B&S International (Topbrands Europe B.V.)

Location: Oud-Beijerland, South Holland, Netherlands

Job Type: Part-time / Full-time

Category: Design / Creative

Date Posted: September 8, 2026

Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is designed for a recent graduate or early-career professional looking to build a foundation in packaging artwork and graphic design within the dynamic FMCG sector.

• The Junior Packaging Artwork Designer will be an integral part of the in-house design studio, contributing to the full lifecycle of packaging design from concept to production-ready artwork.

• The position offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience with diverse product categories, including personal care, cosmetics, and licensed merchandise.

• Success in this role requires a blend of creativity, meticulous attention to detail, strong technical skills in design software, and a collaborative spirit.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title mentions "Junior Packaging Artwork Designer / Graphic Designer," the detailed description heavily emphasizes packaging artwork. The role is positioned as an entry-level opportunity within a larger design team, focusing on practical execution of designs rather than high-level strategy. The company, Topbrands Europe B.V., operates in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) market, specifically within personal care and cleaning products, which implies a need for designers who can adapt quickly to trends and client demands.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and execute packaging artwork for a variety of product lines, including own brands, private labels, and licensed collaborations.

• Create initial concept sketches, mock-ups, and digital renderings for packaging designs.

• Prepare and adapt existing artwork for the sampling phase, ensuring accuracy and adherence to brand guidelines.

• Modify and finalize artwork for mass production, incorporating specific printing, finishing, and material requirements.

• Collaborate closely with experienced design specialists to learn and apply best practices in packaging design and pre-press.

• Work with diverse materials, printing techniques, and special finishing effects, gaining practical knowledge of production processes.

• Assist in the development of product packaging from initial concept to final artwork, considering aesthetic appeal, functionality, and manufacturing feasibility.

• Maintain organized project files and documentation for all design assets and artwork revisions.

• Participate in team meetings, contributing creative ideas and providing feedback on design concepts.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities are focused on the practical execution of packaging artwork. The role involves learning and applying technical skills for artwork adaptation and finalization, rather than conceptualization from scratch. The emphasis on "pre-press ready artwork" and "mass production" indicates a strong link to manufacturing and print production processes.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• A vocational (MBO) or higher professional (HBO) diploma in Graphic Design, Creative Media Design, Graphic Design (Grafische Vormgeving), or a related field. Experience:

• Professional work experience is not a mandatory requirement; however, a strong portfolio demonstrating talent and potential is essential.

• Interest and willingness to develop expertise in packaging design and product development. Required Skills:

• Proficiency in the Adobe Creative Suite, with a strong emphasis on Adobe Illustrator for vector-based artwork creation and manipulation.

• Excellent attention to detail, ensuring accuracy in all design and artwork modifications.

• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and maintain organization in a fast-paced environment.

• Strong collaboration and teamwork skills, with an open attitude towards feedback and contribution to team dynamics.

• Fluency in both written and spoken Dutch and English.

• Creativity, motivation, and a proactive approach to learning and skill development. Preferred Skills:

• Basic understanding of packaging production processes, printing techniques, and material considerations.

• Familiarity with mock-up creation and pre-press preparation workflows.

• Ability to adapt quickly to changing priorities and project demands.

• A keen interest in FMCG trends, particularly in personal care and beauty products.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on Adobe Illustrator is critical, as it's the primary tool for packaging artwork. The "0-2 years" experience level suggests that candidates with strong academic projects or internships will be considered. The requirement for both Dutch and English proficiency is important for a company operating internationally.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A digital portfolio showcasing your best school, internship, and/or personal design work.

• Examples demonstrating proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, particularly for creating and manipulating vector graphics relevant to packaging.

• Case studies or project examples that highlight your ability to follow design briefs and adapt artwork for specific purposes (e.g., mock-ups, final production files).

• Visuals demonstrating an understanding of design principles, color theory, and typography as applied to product packaging.

• Evidence of your creative thinking process, even if for academic or personal projects. Process Documentation:

• While formal process documentation is not explicitly required for this junior role, candidates should be prepared to discuss their personal workflow for managing design projects, from receiving a brief to delivering final artwork.

• Be ready to explain how you ensure accuracy and manage revisions in your design process.

• The company emphasizes an in-house design studio approach, suggesting a structured workflow for project handoffs and approvals.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role, the portfolio is the primary demonstration of capability. It should clearly showcase technical skills in Illustrator and an understanding of design principles relevant to packaging. The "creative assignment" and "online assessment" mentioned in the application process will likely serve as practical tests of their process and problem-solving abilities.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• €2,600 - €3,100 gross per month.

• This range is based on the candidate's educational level, knowledge, and skills. Benefits:

• Employment contract for 32 to 40 hours per week.

• 28 vacation days per year.

• Option to purchase an additional 10 vacation days.

• Travel allowance.

• Pension scheme with 2/3rds of the premium paid by Topbrands.

• Opportunity to participate in the bicycle plan.

• Company laptop provided.

• Access to free fruit.

• Company parties and team events (bootcamp, padel).

• Access to the 'Benefits at Work' platform, offering discounts on brands, activities, and more. Working Hours:

• Flexible working hours, available for 32 to 40 hours per week, indicating potential for both part-time and full-time arrangements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is provided in detail, with a clear explanation of factors influencing it. The benefits package is comprehensive and includes typical Dutch employment perks, alongside company-specific social activities, which can be attractive to early-career professionals. The working hours flexibility is a positive aspect for work-life balance.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods), specifically Personal Care and Cleaning Products.

Company Size: Topbrands Europe B.V. operates within a dynamic and growing market, suggesting a medium-to-large sized enterprise with established processes but an agile mindset. The Design Team alone comprises 19 specialists, indicating a significant investment in creative capabilities.

Founded: Topbrands Europe B.V. was founded in 2002, highlighting over two decades of experience and market presence in securing and distributing top deals in personal care and cleaning products.

Team Structure:

• The Design Team consists of 19 creative specialists.

• The Junior Packaging Artwork Designer reports directly to the Team Leader Design.

• This structure suggests a hierarchical but collaborative environment, with opportunities to learn from experienced professionals. Methodology:

• The company emphasizes a "deal-driven" approach, seeking the best opportunities in the market.

• Core values include ambition, openness, teamwork, resilience, engagement, and work enjoyment, pointing towards a culture that values both performance and employee well-being.

• The dynamic nature of the FMCG market implies a need for adaptability, speed, and continuous innovation in their product and packaging development.

Company Website: While not directly provided in the input, the domain derived is bandsintl.com, which would be the primary website for B&S International.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is characterized by ambition, teamwork, and a focus on finding "the best deals." The Design Team's size suggests a well-resourced creative department. The mention of "work enjoyment" and activities like company parties and padel indicates a focus on employee engagement and a positive work environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level role, specifically targeted at individuals at the beginning of their careers in graphic and packaging design. It's an opportunity to gain foundational experience in a specialized area of design within the FMCG sector.

Reporting Structure: The Junior Packaging Artwork Designer will report directly to the Team Leader Design. This provides a clear line of mentorship and supervision, crucial for learning and development.

Operations Impact: While not a traditional "operations" role in terms of process optimization or revenue enablement, the design work directly impacts product marketability, brand perception, and ultimately, sales. Effective packaging design is a critical component of product success in the FMCG industry.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Significant opportunity to develop advanced skills in packaging artwork, Adobe Illustrator, and understanding of printing/finishing techniques.

• Career Progression: Potential to advance within the Design Team, moving from Junior Artwork Designer to Packaging Designer, Senior Designer, or even specializing in specific product categories or design functions.

• Industry Exposure: Gaining experience with diverse brands (own brands, private labels, and licenses like Mattel) provides broad industry exposure.

• Learning Environment: The role is explicitly positioned for learning, with encouragement to develop and grow within the field.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path is clearly defined within the design function. The company's emphasis on "new talent" and "potential" indicates a commitment to nurturing employees. The structured team and reporting line provide a supportive environment for career advancement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is on-site at the company's location in Oud-Beijerland, Netherlands. The description mentions an "in-house design studio," suggesting a dedicated creative workspace.

Office Location(s): Aston Martinlaan 1, 3261 NB Oud-Beijerland, Netherlands. This location is within the South Holland province.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role is part of a team of 19 design specialists, indicating a collaborative and interactive workspace.

• Tools & Technology: Access to necessary design tools, including a company laptop and the Adobe Creative Suite, is provided.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for daily interaction with experienced colleagues, fostering a learning-rich environment. The company also promotes social interaction through events like parties, bootcamps, and padel.

Work Schedule: The position offers flexibility between 32 and 40 hours per week, accommodating both part-time and full-time arrangements, suggesting a balance between operational needs and employee flexibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is clear. The description of the "in-house design studio" and team size points to a professional and creative work environment. The inclusion of social activities suggests a company that values team cohesion beyond just work tasks.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Interview: A first meeting to assess mutual fit and interest.

• Creative Assignment: Following a positive initial interview, candidates will be asked to complete a creative task to demonstrate their design skills and approach.

• Online Assessment: A remote assessment will be administered, covering relevant skills and aptitudes.

• Second Interview: A deeper discussion, likely focusing on the creative assignment, assessment results, and a more in-depth exploration of the candidate's suitability for the role and team.

• Offer: A conditional offer is made after a successful second interview and positive assessment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select your strongest academic, internship, or personal projects that best showcase your skills in graphic and packaging design, especially using Adobe Illustrator.

• Showcase Process: For each project, briefly explain the brief, your approach, the tools used, and the final outcome. Highlight any challenges you overcame.

• Illustrator Focus: Ensure your portfolio clearly demonstrates your proficiency with Adobe Illustrator, showcasing vector artwork, layout skills, and ability to create print-ready files.

• Packaging Relevance: Prioritize projects that demonstrate an understanding of packaging principles, even if they were conceptual or academic.

• Digital Format: Present your portfolio digitally (e.g., via a link to a website, Behance, or a well-organized PDF).

Challenge Preparation:

• Creative Assignment: Be prepared to dedicate time to this assignment. Understand the brief thoroughly and aim for creativity, technical accuracy, and alignment with the company's brand aesthetic (if discernible).

• Online Assessment: Treat this seriously. These assessments often gauge problem-solving, attention to detail, and cognitive abilities relevant to design work.

• Second Interview: Prepare to discuss your portfolio and creative assignment in detail. Be ready to articulate your design choices, your learning process, and how you handle feedback.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process includes practical steps (creative assignment, assessment) designed to evaluate practical skills and aptitude, which is common for creative roles. The emphasis on portfolio and creative assignment means candidates should prepare these thoroughly.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Illustrator: This is highlighted as the most important tool for creating and manipulating vector artwork essential for packaging design.

• Adobe Creative Suite: General proficiency across the suite is expected, implying potential use of Photoshop or InDesign as well, though Illustrator is the focus.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Not explicitly mentioned as a requirement for this design role. The focus is on creative execution rather than data analysis. CRM & Automation:

• Not applicable to this design role.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is narrowly focused on core design software, with Adobe Illustrator being the critical component. There is no expectation of CRM, marketing automation, or advanced analytics tool proficiency for this position.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Ambition: A drive to achieve and excel in the fast-paced FMCG market.

• Openness: Willingness to share ideas, receive feedback, and embrace new approaches.

• Teamwork: Collaborative spirit, working together to achieve common goals within the design studio and across departments.

• Resilience: Ability to adapt and persevere in a dynamic and sometimes challenging market.

• Engagement: Commitment to projects and the company's success.

• Work Enjoyment: Fostering a positive and fun work environment.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional: While primarily within the Design Team, designers will likely collaborate with marketing, product development, and production teams to ensure designs meet project requirements.

• Feedback-Driven: Openness to feedback is explicitly mentioned, indicating a culture where constructive criticism is valued for improving designs.

• Knowledge Sharing: Working within a team of 19 specialists provides ample opportunity for informal knowledge sharing and learning from experienced colleagues.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company values are clearly stated and align with a performance-oriented yet supportive work culture. The emphasis on teamwork and openness is crucial for a collaborative design environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Fast-Paced Environment: The FMCG market is highly dynamic, requiring quick turnaround times and adaptability to trends and client demands.

• Multiple Projects: Managing numerous projects simultaneously with varying priorities can be demanding.

• Technical Precision: Ensuring absolute accuracy in artwork for mass production, where errors can be costly.

• Learning Curve: As an entry-level role, there will be a significant learning curve associated with packaging production processes, materials, and specific client requirements.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Skill Development: Deepen expertise in packaging artwork creation, Adobe Illustrator, and understanding of print production techniques.

• Industry Exposure: Work with diverse product categories and brands, expanding your design portfolio and market knowledge.

• Mentorship: Learn directly from experienced design specialists within a structured team environment.

• Career Advancement: Potential to grow into more senior design roles within the company.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for entry-level creative roles in a fast-moving industry. The growth opportunities are well-aligned with the role's nature, focusing on skill acquisition and career progression within the design field.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a project from your portfolio where you had to adapt existing artwork for a specific purpose. What was your process?" (Focus on your Illustrator skills and attention to detail.)

• "How do you approach managing multiple design projects with competing deadlines?" (Highlight your organizational skills and stress management.)

• "What interests you specifically about packaging design and this role at Topbrands?" (Show genuine enthusiasm for the industry and the company's products.)

• "How do you incorporate feedback into your design work?" (Emphasize your collaborative spirit and willingness to learn.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Topbrands Europe B.V. and the FMCG market?" (Research the company's brands and market position.)

• "How do you see yourself contributing to our design team's culture?" (Align your answer with their values like teamwork, ambition, and openness.)

• "What are your long-term career aspirations in design?" (Show ambition and a desire for growth within the field.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Concise Walkthrough: Be prepared to walk through 2-3 key projects from your portfolio, explaining the brief, your process, and the outcome.

• Highlight Illustrator Skills: Specifically point out where and how you used Adobe Illustrator to achieve the final artwork.

• Demonstrate Problem-Solving: If applicable, discuss any challenges you faced during a project and how you overcame them.

• Enthusiasm: Convey your passion for design and eagerness to learn and contribute.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should heavily focus on showcasing portfolio work and articulating design process, especially concerning Adobe Illustrator and packaging-specific considerations. The company values should be woven into responses.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Junior Packaging Artwork Designer / Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application, including your CV and online portfolio, via the provided link on SmartRecruiters.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio is tailored to highlight relevant packaging design projects and your proficiency in Adobe Illustrator. Be ready to explain your creative process for selected pieces.

• Resume Optimization: Clearly state your educational background and any relevant internships or projects. Use keywords like "Graphic Design," "Packaging Artwork," "Adobe Illustrator," and "Creative Media Design."

• Interview Preparation: Practice discussing your portfolio projects, your understanding of the design process, and your motivations for applying. Be ready for the creative assignment and online assessment.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Topbrands Europe B.V., their brands (Sence, Cosmopolitan, etc.), and the general FMCG personal care market to demonstrate your interest and understanding.

⚠️ 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.