Job Information
Smurfit Westrock Sr Structural Packaging Designer in Guelph, Ontario
Opportunity summary:
We are seeking a creative and detail-oriented Structural Designer to join our Packaging Design team. In this role, you will be responsible for designing innovative, functional, and cost-effective corrugated packaging solutions that meet customer requirements, manufacturing capabilities, and sustainability goals.
The ideal candidate combines strong technical design skills with a solid understanding of corrugated materials, converting processes, and customer-focused problem solving.
How you will impact Smurfit Westrock:
Design and develop corrugated packaging structures including RSCs, die-cuts, retail-ready packaging, and custom solutions
Translate customer requirements into effective packaging designs that meet performance, cost, and sustainability objectives
Create 2D and 3D CAD drawings, specifications, and bills of materials
Build and test prototypes and samples; support packaging trials and validations
Collaborate with Sales, Operations, and Manufacturing teams to ensure designs are production-ready
Optimize existing designs for cost reduction, material efficiency, and performance
Ensure designs comply with customer standards, ISTA testing requirements, and industry specifications
Support customer presentations, design reviews, and technical discussions
Maintain accurate design documentation and revision control
Customer visits and supporting sales where required.
What you need to succeed:
Diploma or degree in Packaging Engineering, Industrial Design, Mechanical Design, or related field
2-5+ years of experience in structural design within the corrugated packaging industry
Strong working knowledge of corrugated materials, flute profiles, board grades, and converting processes
Experience with packaging performance requirements (compression, transit testing, palletization)
Proficiency in ArtiosCAD (preferred) or similar packaging CAD software
Familiarity with FEFCO styles and custom die-cut design
Understanding of manufacturing constraints (die-cutting, flexo, litho-lam, gluing, folding)
Ability to interpret and create technical drawings and specifications
Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
Excellent communication and collaboration abilities
Customer-focused mindset with attention to detail
Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
Experience with retail-ready packaging (RRP) or e-commerce packaging preferred
Knowledge of sustainability principles and material optimization preferred
Exposure to ISTA testing, pallet patterns, and supply chain considerations preferred
Experience supporting sales-driven design initiatives preferred
This posting is for an existing job vacancy. The salary range for this position is $73,875 - $123,125. The range listed is the expected pay for roles in Ontario, Canada. Your pay will be based on factors such as your skills, experience, and education. To learn more about this posting, please contact your recruiter during the hiring process. You may apply online at Smurfit Westrock External Careers and the application window is expected to close by April 15, 2026.
WestRock Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating and maintaining a diverse workforce. As part of our commitment to accessibility for all persons with disabilities, WestRock will, upon request from the applicant, provide accommodation during the recruitment process to ensure equal access to applicants with disabilities. Please contact WestRock, Human Resources about your needs and we will consult with you to ensure suitable accommodation is provided.
Smurfit Westrock (NYSE:SW) is a global leader in sustainable paper and packaging solutions. We are materials scientists, packaging designers, mechanical engineers and manufacturing experts with a shared purpose: Innovate Boldly. Package Sustainably. Guided by our values of safety, loyalty, integrity, and respect, we use leading science and technology to move fiber-based packaging forward.
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law.