Packaging Production Designer

About the role

The Packaging Production Designer owns end-to-end packaging execution across the Leapfrog Brands portfolio (Ello, ZULU, Pogo) from dieline creation through structural optimization, drop testing, and master pack configuration. This role works closely with our internal Operations and external Manufacturing teams to drive packaging improvement and documentation driving cost, performance, and product-protection improvements across our SKU base.

What You’ll Do

• Own the creation, revision, and production readiness of dielines for multi-pack product packaging
• Build and maintain template systems for recurring packaging families across brands to drive speed and consistency
• Manage color across substrates and print processes. Review press and digital proofs and partner with vendors to resolve production issues
• Lead packaging optimization efforts, including material selection, structural improvements, cost/efficiency enhancements, and QC processes
• Manage and track packaging drop testing, including coordination with factory partners and occasional in-house validation
• Support the documentation of packaging bills of materials (BOMs), ensuring accuracy and efficiency
• Maintain organized records of dielines, specs, testing results, costs, and revisions
• Partner closely with Operations to proactively improve product protection and reduce shipping damage
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Design, Engineering, Sales, and Operations to ensure packaging solutions meet brand, cost, and performance requirements
• Partner with Operations team to help prepare accurate carton marking files and production artwork for print, testing, and factory execution
• Adapt & test dielines to support palletization, containerization, and master pack configuration to maximize shipping efficiency and product protection
• Support consistency across SKUs by brand, structure, and retail channel; flag inconsistencies and contribute to evolving brand guidelines

Who You Are

• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Design, Graphic Design, Packaging Engineering or similar field of study
• 3+ years of experience in packaging development or production design, preferably in a consumer goods environment
• Highly detail-oriented with strong organizational and documentation skills
• Must have experience creating complex multipack dielines
• Must have strong understanding of print production processes, packaging and material specs
• Familiarity with packaging materials, manufacturing methods, and cost drivers
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator and Photoshop required)
• Knowledge of commercial manufacturing processes is a plus
• Comfortable managing multiple projects and timelines in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment
• Experience with mass retail packaging requirements (Amazon, Walmart, Target, Costco) a plus

Benefits at Leapfrog

• 15 days Paid Time Off your first year, and an additional day each year thereafter (up to 25 days), as well as company paid sick days, holidays and parental leave options
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance as well as commuter benefits and additional voluntary benefits
• Annual bonus payouts for all salaried employees, and up to a 5% 401k match with no vesting period
• Summer Fridays - from Memorial Day to Labor Day enjoy half days every Friday

Leapfrog

Leapfrog is currently operating under a hybrid work model, and this position will report on site to our Lincoln Park office at least 2 days per week. Additional ad-hoc in office days may be required based on business needs. Please do not apply if you are not comfortable with a hybrid work model.

Salary Band

$65,000-75,000 plus bonus, full-time, salaried, exempt, hybrid

Design

Chicago, IL