Three Common Packaging Jobs Explained

Nick Riedl (Video Editor & Creative Lead):

If you're anything like me, the first time you heard about someone working in packaging, you may have thought that just meant putting things in boxes. But this couldn't be farther from the truth.

Packaging is one of the largest industries in the world, with a wide variety of career paths—from math and science to art and business. No matter your background, the packaging industry could probably use your skills.

In this video, I want to introduce you to just a few of those careers that exist in packaging to give you a clearer picture of what this industry has to offer.

1. Packaging Engineers

Let's start with packaging engineers.

Every package, at its core, has one key function: to keep the product safe from when it leaves the manufacturer all the way until it's received by a customer. Designing to meet this function is the responsibility of a packaging engineer.

But it's not as simple as you might think.

Think about every issue a product might face along that journey: What if the package gets wet? What if it falls six feet off the ground while in transit? Is the product inside the package secure enough so that the constant vibration of a moving truck doesn't rattle it? Will extreme changes in temperature have an impact on the system's integrity? And there are more complications where these came from.

Packaging engineers design systems with all of these challenges in mind, while also considering additional factors like the materials being used or the package's size and weight. These can have a significant impact on the efficiency of a package, both from a financial and sustainable standpoint.

Those in this role will likely utilize CAD software to create digital blueprints for their designs, as well as work hands-on with real materials, giving them a chance to be involved in every step of the process.

Packaging engineers must think critically and solve problems creatively while drawing on strong math and science skills. In addition, packaging engineers typically need a degree in a relevant field. This could be a bachelor's degree in packaging engineering, packaging science, or another closely related engineering discipline.

2. Packaging Designers

Maybe you like the idea of designing packaging, but math and science aren't exactly your thing. Becoming a packaging designer could be the right path for you.

If packaging engineers are responsible for making sure packages are safe and secure, packaging designers are responsible for making sure packages are appealing and marketable.

Take a look at this shelf:

There are dozens of products here all vying for the consumer's attention, and the packaging is what allows them to stand out from one another. We like to refer to packaging as the silent salesperson, and packaging designers work to ensure that this salesperson is doing the best job possible.

A packaging designer, of course, needs strong graphic design skills, but they also spend a great deal of time studying their customer base to gain a better understanding of how consumers think.

It's one thing to design something that you find appealing, but it's another thing entirely to design something that will subconsciously grab the attention and curiosity of the consumer. This combination of creativity and research is what makes packaging design so interesting.

Companies may require prospective designers to have a bachelor's degree in something like graphic design, graphic communications, or some similar field. But others may not require this as long as you can provide a portfolio of proven work.

3. Supply Chain Analysts

The last job I want to dive into today is one that, while not directly involved in the creation of packaging itself, is just as important to the industry.

Supply chain analysts or managers play a key role in making sure products and packages get to where they need to go in the quickest and most cost-effective way possible. This type of work includes gathering and analyzing data related to shipping costs, warehousing, scheduling, and even maintaining relationships with vendors.

Even the most perfectly optimized packaging won't reach its full potential if the supply chain is poorly managed. That's why it's up to these strategists to keep everything running smoothly. Supply chain analysts and packaging engineers work closely together, sharing valuable insights that help improve efficiency and sustainability across the entire packaging system.

Success in supply chain management requires an analytical mind and strong problem-solving skills. The ability to identify patterns and improve workflows is essential in this field.

Candidates looking to pursue a career in supply chain management will typically need a bachelor's degree in supply chain management or a related business discipline, such as an MBA.

Outro

These examples just scratch the surface of the many careers the packaging industry has to offer. There are dozens, if not hundreds, of other roles that might be the perfect fit for your interests, skills, and experience.

So if you're curious about your specific background, feel free to leave a comment, and we can try and shed some light on what titles the industry might offer you.

If you're interested in learning more about packaging, whether you're a newcomer looking to break into the industry or a savvy veteran hoping to advance your career, The Packaging School is here to help. We offer an extensive catalog of certificate programs and specialized courses designed to help you become the best packaging professional you can be.

Be sure to visit our website to learn more about what we have to offer, and feel free to reach out to us with any questions at info@packagingschool.com.