Packaging Development Associate

Role Summary

The Packaging Development Associate is responsible for supporting the creation, coordination, review, and management of packaging artwork across multiple food product lines. This role works closely with internal teams and external suppliers and stakeholders to ensure packaging designs meet brand standards, customer requirements, and regulatory requirements while maintaining accuracy, consistency, and timely delivery for new product launches and production runs. The successful candidate will be highly organized, detail-oriented, and familiar with packaging processes and food industry regulations.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate the packaging artwork process from concept through final print approval.
• Create and oversee artwork for packaging components in collaboration with Marketing and internal stakeholders and customers.
• Ensure packaging designs adhere to brand guidelines, certification requirements, image licensing standards, and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Manage artwork timelines and track project progress to ensure on-time delivery.
• Monitor and coordinate artwork updates throughout new product launches and production runs.
• Liaise with internal stakeholders, including Creative Services, Marketing, QA, Product Development, Regulatory, Sales, Procurement, and Operations, as well as external customers, printers, co-packers, and suppliers.
• Gather and coordinate all required packaging inputs, including dielines, pack copy, regulatory information, and product and packaging specifications.
• Review artwork files for accuracy of product details, claims, barcodes, and labeling information.
• Ensure packaging artwork complies with CFIA and other applicable food labeling regulations.
• Conduct proof reviews and coordinate stakeholder approvals through established artwork approval workflows.
• Maintain version control of packaging files, including accurate filing, archiving, and management of artwork libraries.
• Collaborate with QA, Product Development, and Regulatory teams to ensure mandatory information, including ingredients, nutrition facts, allergens, and bilingual labeling, is accurately presented.
• Verify that required certifications and logos, including MSC, ASC, Ocean Wise, Organic, and Gluten-Free, are used in accordance with brand and regulatory requirements.
• Support Private Label and National Brand artwork requests by providing accurate technical data.
• Maintain organized records of artwork approvals, revisions, and specifications.
• Assist with the development and improvement of artwork process documentation and templates.
• Maintain the artwork archive, customer codes, and packaging documentation, ensuring records are organized and up to date for the Packaging Services group.
• Support the implementation and use of artwork management systems, such as Microsoft Teams, Esko, WebCenter, or equivalent.
• Research new packaging technologies and materials suitable for seafood preservation and sustainability.
• Stay current on packaging trends, regulatory updates, and industry best practices through training, seminars, trade shows, and professional development opportunities.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications/Skills

• Previous experience in Packaging Development or a similar role is an asset.
• Post-secondary education in Packaging Design, Graphic Design, or equivalent experience.
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, including Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• Knowledge of the Consumer-Packaged Goods (CPG) and Food & Beverage industries is an asset.
• Knowledge of CFIA food labeling regulations is an asset.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• This position is based in a professional office setting, with work primarily performed at a desk using a computer, phone, and other standard office equipment.

Benefits

• Hybrid – 1 day work from home per week
• Summer hours
• Competitive vacation and Personal day policy
• Employee Discounts on consumables
• Employee Assistance Program
• Company Paid Benefits
• RRSP Match Program

The annual base salary for this role is expected to fall between $70,000 and $80,000.

This is an existing vacancy.

Export Packers is an equal opportunity employer committed to promoting diversity of thought, ideas, perspective and people. We create an inclusive environment that attracts, retains and values people of all backgrounds by treating all people in a way that allows them to maintain their dignity and independence through inclusion, integration and equal opportunity. We are committed to meeting the needs of those who interact with Export Packers in accordance with Federal and provincial laws.

In accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code, Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005, Export Packers has an Accommodation Policy as part of our hiring process. Should you require accommodation, please advise the People & Culture Department.

Please note: A criminal background check is required for all candidates and will be conducted in the final stages of the hiring process. This will be facilitated by our team, with full details provided during the selection process.