Packaging Production Designer (Pasadena)

About Likely Inc.Likely Inc. is a Pasadena-based design studio specializing in luxury and sustainable custom packaging. We partner with brands to bring their vision to life—from concept through production—using our in-house expertise and global manufacturing network. www.likekyus.comRole OverviewWe're seeking a detail-oriented Packaging Production Designer with 4+ years of hands-on experience preparing print-ready files and setting up production for packaging products (boxes, bags, cartons, etc.). You'll collaborate closely with our design and product development teams to generate new packaging ideas, re-engineer existing solutions for sustainability and cost efficiency, and ensure flawless execution from dieline to delivery.Please note: Applications submitted without a portfolio showcasing relevant production work and completed projects will not be considered. Candidates must provide examples that demonstrate your experience, technical knowledge, and production capabilities.Key ResponsibilitiesIndependently develop, analyze, and refine dielines, ensuring structural and production accuracy across a wide range of packaging formats including rigid boxes, folding cartons, paper bags, stationery, tissue paper, glass vessels, metal tins, labels, and other custom packaging componentsPrepare and deliver production-ready artwork files in all required formats (PDF, AI, EPS, etc.) with complete production callouts, specifications, finishes, and annotations for factory executionApply advanced knowledge of printing and production techniques including offset, digital, screen printing, foil stamping, embossing, debossing, spot UV, soft-touch, coatings, and specialty finishes to optimize designs for manufacturingTake full ownership of internal production file setup rather than relying on factories or external vendors to provide finalized dielines or production-ready filesReview and verify all artwork, dimensions, tolerances, material callouts, and production specifications prior to factory release to minimize production risks and costly errorsCollaborate closely with product development, sourcing, and graphic design teams to ideate, prototype, and refine packaging concepts from development through final productionLiaise directly with domestic and international factories and vendors to confirm specifications, construction details, print applications, production feasibility, tolerances, and lead timesMaintain organized project files, trackers, spec sheets, and production timelines while ensuring all revisions and approvals are properly documented and updated internallyEffectively self-manage daily priorities, workload, and timelines in a fast-paced environment by proactively identifying urgent tasks, long lead items, and communicating status updates clearly with ownership and the production teamTroubleshoot technical production issues proactively and provide solutions before files are released into sampling or productionQualifications5+ years of experience in packaging production design and prepress setup for consumer products and luxury packagingExpert-level mastery of dieline creation, structural layout analysis, and production file setup across multiple packaging categories and materialsProven experience independently building and adjusting production-ready files rather than simply using factory-provided templates or existing agency filesStrong understanding of packaging engineering, print production limitations, material behavior, and manufacturing tolerancesIn-depth knowledge of printing processes and how artwork, materials, finishes, and construction impact final production qualityExceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously with minimal oversightStrong communication skills and confidence working cross-functionally with creative teams, product developers, ownership, and overseas vendors/factoriesAbility to prioritize tasks independently, revisit and manage daily to-do lists effectively, and communicate production risks or delays proactivelyPassion for luxury packaging, sustainable materials, innovative production methods, and cost-effective packaging solutionsBenefits:Comprehensive health benefits offered to full-time employees, available after the 90-day probation period.40 hours of paid sick time annually, available after the 90-day probation period.Paid Time Off (PTO) begins accruing after one year of continuous employment.Opportunities for growth within the company.Compensation: $70,000/yearHow to ApplyPlease send your resume, portfolio samples (dielines + finished packaging), and a brief cover letter to hello@likelyus.com with the subject line "Packaging Production Designer Application."Please note: Applications submitted without a portfolio showcasing relevant production work and completed projects will not be considered. Candidates must provide examples that demonstrate your experience, technical knowledge, and production capabilities.We look forward to seeing how your expertise can help us drive innovation and sustainability in packaging production!