Package Designer

About the Team

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 n our team and show your love for pets by creating products as special as pets themselves!

Collaborative Work Environment:
At Pet Smart, 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.

• 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.

• Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design or a related field.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in package design.
• Self-motivated, highly…