Packaging Engineers & Packaging Design Drafters

Role details

Design the packaging that protects the technology shaping the future.

Larson Packaging Company designs and builds custom industrial packaging for some of the most demanding products in the world: AI hardware, aerospace and defense systems, and medical devices. When a customer needs to ship a server rack, a flight component, or a sensitive instrument safely, they come to us. The work covers engineered wood crates, ATA and molded cases, custom foam sets and inserts, corrugated and plastic boxes, and pallets. We design it, prototype it, test it, and build it in our own facilities.

We're growing fast and hiring at all three locations. New projects come in constantly, and no two are the same. If you like solving new problems every week, seeing your designs built on the shop floor, and working with customers in cutting-edge industries, you'll fit in here.

We're hiring for three roles

Customer Application Packaging Engineer (CAPE). This is our customer-facing design engineer. You'll work with customers and our sales team to understand what needs protecting and why. You'll then turn those requirements into complete packaging solutions, including 3D models, specifications, bills of materials, cost estimates, and tooling layouts. You'll support product demos and proof-of-concept projects, specify cutting dies, and define drop and vibration testing to validate your designs.

Production Design Engineer (PDE). This is our production-facing design engineer. You'll turn approved customer designs into production-ready drawings, cut lists, BOMs, and work instructions for manufacturing. You'll program our CNC equipment, including a Kongsberg sample table, ShopBot, CNC routers, and waterjet. You'll also support the shop floor when questions come up and drive continuous improvement in how we build.

Packaging Design Drafter. You'll produce accurate shop drawings and production documentation that keep our manufacturing teams moving. This role is ideal for a skilled CAD drafter who wants to grow into packaging engineering, with real projects, mentorship, and a clear path forward.

A note on locations

In Milpitas and El Cajon, you'll be part of a collaborative design team working closely with Sales, Production, and Quality. In Olive Branch, you'll work independently as the site's on-site design resource. You'll own projects from start to finish and support the local plant directly. If you like autonomy, the Olive Branch role is a great opportunity.

What you'll work with

• SolidWorks and Artios CAD for 3D modeling and 2D drawings
• CAD/CAM tools such as VCarve and EnRoute, plus CNC and waterjet programming
• ERP systems (Sage) for BOMs, part numbers, and estimating
• An ISO 9000–based quality system covering design and document control

What we're looking for

• Packaging engineering experience is preferred. Crates, cases, foam, or corrugated experience is a strong plus.
• Mechanical engineers who want to move into packaging are encouraged to apply.
• Proficiency in SolidWorks. Artios CAD experience is highly valued.
• The ability to turn customer requirements into manufacturable designs
• Strong Excel skills and comfort with cost estimating and BOMs (for CAPE and PDE roles)
• Familiarity with package testing standards (ISTA, ASTM, MIL-STD) for CAPE roles
• A valid driver's license
• U.S. person status (U.S. citizen or permanent resident) is preferred because of ITAR-controlled defense work.
• Spanish language skills are a plus

Why Larson

• Fast growth, which means real opportunities to advance
• A variety of projects across AI, aerospace, defense, and medical device customers
• Your designs get built in-house, so you'll see them go from screen to shop floor
• Investment in your growth, including training, industry courses, trade shows, and software certifications

Pay: $75,000 – $150,000 per year, depending on role, experience, and capability

Benefits: Health insurance, 401(k), and life insurance, with optional dental and vision coverage

Schedule: Office-based within our manufacturing facilities, with occasional time on the shop floor

Please tell us in your application which role and which location interest you. Portfolios or examples of design work are welcome.

*Larson Packaging Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer.*

Pay: $75,000.00 - $150,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person