Package Designer

Package Designer

It's no surprise people are passionate about the health and happiness of their pet and our Merchandising (buying) team is no different. When it comes to the products and solutions in our stores, our incredible teams of merchandising associates have everything covered – from head to tail! From keeping up with the top trends to developing new, innovative solutions, our buyers help ensure every pet parent can find exactly what their pet needs at PetSmart. Join our team and show your love for pets by creating products as special as pets themselves!

Collaborative Work Environment: At PetSmart, teamwork and connection are core to how we thrive. This role is based at our Phoenix Home Office, with an expectation of working a minimum of four days in the office each week. In a standard work week, associates may work up to one remote "flex day" (with leader approval). Our hybrid approach is designed to foster strong collaboration while also supporting flexibility and individual success.

The Package Designer brings creative vision and strategic execution to a broad range of packaging initiatives throughout the design development process. This role also supports proprietary brand digital experiences, including PDP image carousels and online brand shop development. Working closely with the proprietary brand creative team, the ideal candidate will develop innovative, consumer-focused design solutions that align with brand strategy, market trends, and business objectives. Success in this role requires strong creative instincts, fresh thinking, attention to detail, and the ability to thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Contribute to all phases of packaging projects, from concept development through final execution, with a strong focus on maintaining brand consistency and visual excellence.
• Design engaging PDP image carousels that highlight product features while aligning with brand guidelines and category strategies in collaboration with Copywriters and Brand partners.
• Create compelling brand shop visuals that drive online customer engagement in partnership with Copywriting, Brand, Legal, and cross-functional teams.
• Develop innovative, on-strategy creative concepts that meet objectives outlined in creative briefs.
• Apply a strong understanding of dielines, packaging construction, and print production to review proofs and ensure final deliverables meet quality expectations.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment while responding with urgency to evolving business needs.
• Clearly communicate and present design strategies and creative rationale to cross-functional partners including Photographers, Copywriters, Production Artists, and Brand Managers.
• Demonstrate a proactive, problem-solving mindset while fostering a collaborative and positive team environment.
• Maintain a strong eye for design, typography, color, composition, and layout to create compelling, consumer-focused creative.
• Balance creative innovation with practical production considerations and cost efficiencies.
• Demonstrate knowledge of production techniques, print processes, organized file setup, and separation methods.
• Support packaging budget initiatives and identify opportunities for cost savings where appropriate.
• Develop detailed photography briefs outlining styling direction, hero imagery, and supporting inset photography requirements.
• Assist in planning and facilitating product photo shoots as needed.
• Ensure accuracy and attention to detail by creating organized, production-ready files and production artwork when required.
• Maintain accountability for project timelines, deliverable quality, and overall execution.
• Present packaging concepts and creative direction to internal teams, creative leadership, and Brand stakeholders.
• Ensure all proprietary brand packaging complies with U.S. and Canadian packaging regulations.
• Embrace new challenges and opportunities with flexibility and a willingness to learn and grow.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design or a related field.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in package design.
• Self-motivated, highly organized, detail-oriented, and capable of making informed decisions to keep projects moving efficiently.
• Strong understanding of typography, color theory, layout, composition, and overall design aesthetics.

Technical Skills

• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office and expert-level knowledge of Adobe Creative Cloud, including Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign.
• Familiarity with Digital Asset Management (DAM) systems, FTP processes, server file management, and file naming conventions.

This role requires collaboration, teamwork, and face-to-face interaction with colleagues, leaders, and/or clients. Being in the office ensures access to leaders, cross-functional partners, and resources necessary to make timely decisions and drive results. On-site presence in accordance with our FlexSmart policy supports our culture of innovation, mentorship, and engagement, which is integral to our success in developing the best team.

At PetSmart, Anything for Pets begins with our people. Every associate plays a vital role in creating meaningful experiences for pets and their families, and we empower our teams with the tools, resources, and opportunities to grow and succeed.

We're more than a workplace, we're Team PetSmart. Together, we grow, collaborate, and challenge ourselves to be the best in all we do. Our culture is built on belonging and shared purpose, where every voice and experience matters. Guided by our values, we strive to do what's right, lead responsibly, and bring our passion for pets to life every day. Not sure if you meet 100% of the position requirements and whether you should apply? We'd still like to hear from you and encourage you to apply with us! You might be the right fit for this role or another opportunity across Team PetSmart.

Our home office offers outstanding amenities in a fun and rewarding workplace including:

• Pet-friendly environment, bring your pets to work and enjoy the on-site dog park!
• On-Site Events & Adoptions, enjoy community-building opportunities, including pet adoption days, seasonal celebrations, family events, art events, & holiday festivals
• "Top Dog" gym with equipment, fitness classes, massage therapists, personal trainers, and wellness spaces
• "Sit & Stay" Café serving fresh breakfast and lunch options, snacks, & more
• "Lil Paws" NAEYC-accredited onsite childcare facility providing high-quality early education
• Paid Volunteer Opportunities to spend time doing good for causes close to heart
• Print Center and Business Services, Dry Cleaning, Mother's Rooms, Sustainable Infrastructure & more

PetSmart provides an equal opportunity for all associates and job applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status or other legally protected characteristics.