Packaging Design Manager

Oliver Inc. is hiring a Packaging Design Manager to lead the structural packaging design function and drive the development of creative, manufacturable, and cost-effective folding carton packaging solutions. In this leadership role, you'll manage a team of talented Structural Designers while partnering closely with Sales, Manufacturing, Customer Service, and customers to bring packaging concepts from idea to production.

Leadership & Team Development

• Lead, mentor, coach, and develop a team of Structural Designers.
• Prioritize workloads to ensure projects are completed on time and meet customer expectations.
• Establish department goals, performance metrics, and best practices.
• Conduct performance reviews and support employee development.
• Foster a collaborative, innovative, and customer-focused culture.

Structural Packaging Design

• Lead the design and development of folding carton packaging solutions from concept through production.
• Create innovative structural designs that balance functionality, manufacturability, sustainability, and cost.
• Develop prototypes and production-ready CAD files using ArtiosCAD.
• Review and approve structural designs before customer presentation and manufacturing.
• Recommend design improvements that enhance production efficiency and product performance.

Customer Collaboration

• Serve as the primary structural design resource for customers and internal stakeholders.
• Participate in customer meetings to understand packaging objectives and recommend solutions.
• Present design concepts and technical recommendations.
• Build strong customer relationships through responsiveness and technical expertise.

Project Management

• Manage multiple design projects simultaneously while meeting quality and delivery expectations.
• Coordinate closely with Sales, Estimating, Customer Service, Manufacturing, and Production.
• Identify and resolve project challenges before they impact timelines.

Continuous Improvement

• Research industry trends, emerging materials, and sustainable packaging innovations.
• Drive initiatives that improve manufacturing efficiency, reduce waste, and lower costs.
• Develop and maintain structural design standards and documentation.
• Evaluate new equipment, software, and manufacturing technologies.

Requirements

• 7–10 years of structural packaging design experience within folding cartons or paperboard packaging.
• 2–5 years of leadership or supervisory experience preferred.
• Strong customer-facing experience supporting packaging development projects.
• Advanced proficiency with ArtiosCAD and Esko software.
• Deep understanding of folding carton manufacturing processes.
• Knowledge of packaging materials, printing, converting, and finishing processes.
• Experience with Adobe Creative Suite and Microsoft Office.
• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Industrial Design, Engineering, Graphic Communications, or a related field preferred (equivalent experience will be considered).

Skills

• A strategic and hands-on leader
• Customer-focused with outstanding communication skills
• Organized and capable of managing multiple priorities
• Passionate about innovation and continuous improvement
• A strong problem solver who enjoys working cross-functionally in a fast-paced manufacturing environment

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid vacation and holidays
• Career growth and professional development opportunities
• Collaborative, team-oriented culture