Freelance Graphic Designer Packaging

(Multiple states)
Contracted
marketing
Experienced
Planet 13 seeks a freelance Packaging Graphic Designer to lead the creative development and production design of new product launch packaging and packaging re-designs across all Planet 13 products and markets. This role spans concepting, visual systems, dyeline adaptation, spec sheets, print-ready files, and photorealistic 3D renders, ensuring compliant, on-brand packaging that is ready for manufacturing. The ideal contractor brings a strong CPG/retail packaging portfolio, deep production chops, and familiarity with regulated-industry requirements.

Scope of Work (Key Responsibilities)

  • Develop packaging concepts, mood boards, and design directions; translate into final artwork systems for families/SKUs and sub-brands.
  • Create/modify artwork against vendor dyelines; build spec sheets/BOMs, callouts (finishes, varnishes, foils, emboss/deboss), and assembly notes.
  • Prepare print-ready files (CMYK, spot/Pantone, rich black, overprint, trapping, knockouts, white ink layers) and conduct preflight/QC.
  • Produce 3D package renders and shelf sets for internal reviews, e-commerce, sell-in, and marketing toolkits.
  • Lay out regulatory elements (warnings, symbols, dosage/serving info, panel hierarchies, UPC/GS1, QR codes, batch/variable data zones) in coordination with Legal/Compliance for market-specific requirements.
  • Interface with printers/converters on proofs, drawdowns, substrates, and color targets; review digital/hard proofs and press checks as requested.
  • Build scalable packaging guidelines (logo lockups, color systems, typography, iconography, photography, and claims usage) for easy SKU expansion.
  • Adapt artwork for multi-market regulations, net contents, and language/callout changes while preserving brand consistency.
  • Maintain organized file structures, version control, and asset handoffs per Planet 13 standards.
  • Deliver hero key visuals, planogram/shelf visuals, and channel-ready exports supporting launch campaigns and retail displays.
  • Recommend materials/finishes that balance cost, sustainability, and shelf impact.

Deliverables & Quality Standards

  • Deliverables, formats, and acceptance criteria defined per SOW/brief (e.g., AI/INDD/PSD source files; PDF/X-1aprint-ready; OBJ/GLB/PNG for renders).
  • Color targets and finishing notes documented; proofs must meet agreed tolerances (e.g., Delta E) before final approval.
  • Packaging artwork must adhere to Planet 13 brand guidelines and applicable market regulations.

Collaboration & Workflow

  • Primary contact: designated Creative Project Manager.
  • Reviews via scheduled checkpoints; revision rounds and timelines defined per SOW.
  • Communication via email/PM tools; like Monday.com meetings only as mutually scheduled.

Qualifications

  • Portfolio demonstrating CPG/retail packaging across multiple substrates (cartons, labels, shrink, flexible, rigid).
  • Expert in Adobe CC (Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop); working knowledge of Esko/ArtPro or equivalent a plus.
  • Fluency in dyelines, print processes (offset, flexo, digital), substrates, finishes, and color management.
  • Experience translating regulatory requirements into clear, compliant layouts (cannabis or other regulated categories preferred).
  • Strong typography, hierarchy, and production accuracy; ability to juggle multiple launches/SKUs.

Compensation & Invoicing

  • Hourly, as defined per SOW; milestone-based invoicing per agreement.
  • Contractor is solely responsible for all taxes and withholdings (1099).

Intellectual Property & Confidentiality

  • IP ownership/licensing governed by the MSA/SOW; unless otherwise stated, deliverables are work-made-for-hireor assigned to Planet 13 upon full payment.
  • Contractor will protect confidential information and comply with any NDA.

Compliance

  • Contractor remains responsible for their own business compliance, insurance, and permits.

Supervisory Responsibilities

  • None
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