At Notpla, we’re at the forefront of sustainable innovation, creating natural alternatives to single-use plastic packaging that are carefully engineered to help build a healthier planet. Founded on the belief that nature knows best, we’re an innovative, action-oriented scale-up developing and manufacturing uncompromisingly natural packaging solutions from seaweed and plants.

As a Structural Packaging Designer you will bridge the gap between our clients’ initial ideas and the physical product. This is a hand-on role that will require a combination of creative design, technical drawings, artwork creation and physical sample production. 

This is an exciting time to join Notpla — we’re on the brink of a record-breaking year for revenue and on track for major growth in the next 18–24 months. To support this, we have just secured a £20 million Series A+ fundraise, enabling us to scale our growth and environmental impact faster than ever.

Beyond offering meaningful roles and a vibrant working environment, Notpla provides competitive compensation, including EMI Share Options, a zero-carbon pension scheme, discounts with local businesses, and subsidised social activities. Our office-first hybrid working policy lets you work in the way that maximises your productivity while maintaining a dynamic and collaborative atmosphere. We’re a social business with regular clubs and events, and we’re proud of how our diverse, mission-driven community works together to make plastic disappear.

Led by strong values, all Notpla employees are encouraged to take ownership of their domain, enjoying a high degree of autonomy. Our aim is to build an inspiring culture reflected in our working policies, environment, and people.

As a Structural Packaging Designer you will spend your time working on bespoke product designs, technical artwork, data management, physical prototyping and logistics. You will be working closely with the Senior Product Designer as well as Marketing, Customer Success and Supply Chain. The role will also focus on client and project coordination, attending client calls with the Sales team and ensuring timelines and project updates are clearly communicated to internal stakeholders. 

In order to succeed in this role you will need proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (specifically Illustrator and Photoshop) and high manual dexterity to create neat, professional physical samples. Proven track record of creating products from samples and feedback from customers, juggling multiple client requests and meeting deadlines. A basic understanding of the printing process (CMYK, Pantones and dielines) and in Google Suite for tracking SKU data is a plus but not required.

Key Responsibilities

Bespoke Product Design 

• Execute design requests from inbound client briefs including preparing samples. 

• Create high-quality Digital Mock-ups for client presentations and internal approvals.

• Work on client briefs and ensure brand consistency across all SKUs with support from the Marketing Team. .

• Supporting packaging productivity and material optimisation activities.

Technical Artworking & Data Management

• Prepare artwork files, ensuring all dielines, bleeds, and technical specs are accurate and conform to the Notpla Product Guidelines. 

• Manage and track SKU codes and version control, working with Senior Product Designer to ensure all master data is up to date and correct. 

• Ensure bespoke products are flowing through the correct process with Customer Success and Supply Chain. 

Physical Prototyping & Logistics

• Sample Making: drawing up and producing physical mock-ups and prototypes using Notpla coated material. This will include new bespoke SKUs and bespoke artwork on the existing range. 

• Shipments: Manage the packing and dispatch of samples to clients, ensuring they arrive in a timely manner and with exceptional customer service. 

• Maintain the sample library and stock of prototyping materials.

Client & Project Coordination

• Attend client calls with the sales team where relevant. 

• Communicate timelines and project updates clearly to internal stakeholders.

• Process improvement, operational excellence and delivery accountability.

Skills Required: 

• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (specifically Illustrator and Photoshop).

• High manual dexterity—you are comfortable using a scalpel/craft knife to create neat, professional physical samples.

• Attention to Detail: You can create products from samples and feedback from customers. 

• Organised: You can juggle multiple client requests without losing track of shipping or delivery deadlines. 

• Proactive: You aren't afraid to ask questions to clarify a brief before starting work.