Freelance Graphic Designer Packaging

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 Powered by JazzHR