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