Creative Associate (Product & Packaging Design Specialist)

Job Summary:

We are looking for a talented and innovative Creative Associate who excels in both product design and packaging design, with a strong knowledge of pattern and color trends. The ideal candidate will be proficient in Blender 3D and Adobe Illustrator and will have experience creating designs that are both visually appealing and commercially viable. In this role, you will be responsible for designing products and packaging to present to major retailers, ensuring the designs align with current market trends and retailer expectations. An understanding of packaging hierarchy is essential, as you will create packaging that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Key Responsibilities:

• Product Design: Design innovative and trend-forward products using Blender 3D and Adobe Illustrator that appeal to both retailers and consumers.
• Packaging Design: Develop visually striking and practical packaging designs, ensuring an effective packaging hierarchy that communicates the product s value, functionality, and brand.
• 3D Modeling: Utilize Blender 3D to create detailed product and packaging renders for presentations and sales pitches to retailers.
• Graphic Design: Create accompanying marketing materials, product labels, and digital assets using Adobe Illustrator and other design software to support product launches and retailer presentations.
• Trend Application: Research and apply the latest pattern and color trends to both product and packaging designs, ensuring your work is in line with seasonal and market preferences.
• Retailer Presentations: Prepare and present professional, visually compelling mockups and product visuals for sales teams and retailers, highlighting key product features and design elements.
• Packaging Hierarchy: Ensure that packaging designs communicate product information clearly and efficiently, with a keen understanding of brand identity, consumer priorities, and retail display requirements.
• Collaboration: Work closely with the sales, product development, and marketing teams to align designs with the brand's vision and retailer requirements, ensuring feasibility for production.
• Prototyping & Sampling: Assist in the creation of prototypes for both products and packaging, ensuring designs can be effectively manufactured and presented to retailers.
• Market Research: Conduct ongoing research on product, packaging, and retail trends, applying insights to enhance the appeal and functionality of your designs.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor s degree in Graphic Design, Industrial Design, Packaging Design, Fine Arts, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Experience: 2+ years of experience in product and packaging design, with a focus on presenting designs to retailers.
• Technical Skills:
  • Advanced proficiency in Blender 3D for creating product and packaging models and renders.
  • Strong command of Adobe Illustrator for packaging layout, pattern design, and vector graphics.
  • Familiarity with the Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, InDesign) for creating supporting design elements.
• Trend Knowledge: Strong understanding of current pattern and color trends and how to apply them to both products and packaging.
• Packaging Hierarchy Expertise: Proven ability to design packaging that effectively communicates product details, while enhancing shelf appeal and adhering to brand guidelines.
• Portfolio: A diverse portfolio showcasing product designs, packaging layouts, and 3D renders.
• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present and explain design concepts clearly and effectively to both internal teams and retailers.
• Attention to Detail: High attention to detail in both design aesthetics and the practical aspects of product and packaging development.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with retail product cycles and working directly with buyers to understand their design preferences.
• Knowledge of production processes and material selection for both product and packaging to ensure designs are ready for manufacturing.
• Experience in branding and brand identity development is a plus.

Working at Hydrapeak offers an enticing opportunity due to several compelling reasons. Firstly, the company fosters a great work environment that promotes collaboration, innovation, and a supportive culture. As a fast-growing company, there are ample opportunities for personal and professional growth, allowing individuals to take on new challenges and advance within the organization. Moreover, being part of a team that creates cool, trendsetting products like insulated stainless steel bottles and tumblers is both rewarding and exciting. Hydrapeak's products are in high demand, contributing to the appeal of being associated with a trending brand in the market, making it an appealing prospect for those seeking a dynamic and impactful career.