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Associate Packaging Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

From corrugated, warehouse solutions, design & engineering to packaging supplies. Leave your past ... Forklift Associate * Monday - Friday * 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Expected Hours: Forklift Associate * 40 ...

When necessary the analyst will have to collect part data and work with the Packaging Engineer to ... Associate's Degree required. Bachelor's degree preferred. Two years relevant experience with ...

Engineering Associate

West Chicago, IL · On-site

$57K - $74K/yr

This position is ideal for an engineer who thrives in hands on problem solving, and detailed ... We also offer a substantial benefits package including insurance (medical/dental/vision/life ...

Engineering Associate

West Chicago, IL · On-site

$57K - $74K/yr

This position is ideal for an engineer who thrives in hands on problem solving, and detailed ... We also offer a substantial benefits package including insurance (medical/dental/vision/life ...

Engineering Associate

West Chicago, IL · On-site

$57K - $74K/yr

This position is ideal for an engineer who thrives in hands on problem solving, and detailed ... We also offer a substantial benefits package including insurance (medical/dental/vision/life ...

Forklift Associate

Glendale Heights, IL · On-site

$17.25 - $20.50/hr

From corrugated, warehouse solutions, design & engineering to packaging supplies. Leave your past ... Forklift Associate * Monday - Friday * 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Expected Hours: Forklift Associate * 40 ...

Showing results 21-40

Associate Packaging Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$10

$16

$19

How much do associate packaging engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate packaging engineer in Illinois is $16.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $17.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an associate packaging engineer do?

An Associate Packaging Engineer assists in designing, developing, and testing packaging solutions for products. They work with senior engineers and other teams to ensure that packaging is functional, cost-effective, and meets safety and regulatory standards. Their responsibilities often include creating prototypes, conducting material and durability tests, and supporting production processes. This role is typically entry-level and provides opportunities to learn about packaging materials, sustainability, and industry regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate packaging engineer?

To thrive as an Associate Packaging Engineer, you need a solid understanding of packaging materials, design principles, and manufacturing processes, typically backed by a degree in packaging engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, packaging testing equipment, and industry standards like ISTA or ASTM is highly valuable. Strong problem-solving ability, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you excel in cross-functional teams and deliver innovative solutions. These skills ensure that packaging is functional, cost-effective, and compliant with safety and quality standards.

What are the typical projects and team collaborations for an associate packaging engineer?

As an Associate Packaging Engineer, you'll often work on projects involving the design, testing, and optimization of packaging for products. You’ll collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including product development, manufacturing, marketing, and supply chain, to ensure packaging solutions meet both functional and branding requirements. Daily tasks may include prototyping new packaging concepts, analyzing materials for cost and sustainability, and troubleshooting packaging issues in the production line. This role provides excellent exposure to different departments and hands-on experience with both technical and creative aspects of packaging.

What is the difference between Associate Packaging Engineer vs Packaging Technician?

AspectAssociate Packaging EngineerPackaging Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in Packaging, Engineering, or related fieldHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, and testing of packaging solutions in office and lab settingsHands-on packaging assembly and testing in manufacturing or warehouse settings
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturers, consumer goods, pharmaceuticalsManufacturing plants, distribution centers

The Associate Packaging Engineer focuses on designing and improving packaging solutions, requiring a degree and analytical skills. In contrast, the Packaging Technician handles the practical implementation and testing of packaging in production environments, often with technical certifications. Both roles are essential in the packaging process but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Packaging Engineer jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Packaging Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Associate Packaging Engineer jobs in Illinois?

For Associate Packaging Engineer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Associate Packaging Engineer jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Packaging Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Associate Packaging Engineer jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Associate Packaging Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Packaging Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,166 per year, or $16.4 per hour.

$18.21 - $24.41/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Premier Packaging rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

86th of 120 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

Job Summary: Forklift Associate

We are not just a box company. Premier Packaging is a fast-growing, forward-thinking provider for all packaging needs. From corrugated, warehouse solutions, design & engineering to packaging supplies.

Leave your past careers at the door! Once you become a member of the Premier family, you’ll discover this job is so much more than you imagined. Above all, we dream big, think creatively, solve problems, have fun, work hard, and value our team. Almost 30 years in business and we are just getting started.

Shift: Forklift Associate

  • Monday - Friday
  • 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Expected Hours: Forklift Associate

  • 40 Hours
  • Overtime When Needed

Pay Frequency: Forklift Associate

  • Bi-Weekly

Essential Functions: Forklift Associate

  • Safely operate a sit-down and/or stand-up forklift to move, stack, and transport corrugated materials within the manufacturing facility.
  • Load and unload corrugated materials from trucks and storage areas using the forklift.
  • Transport materials to and from production areas, ensuring timely delivery.
  • Assist in the organization and management of inventory within the facility.
  • Conduct regular counts and checks to ensure accurate inventory levels.
  • Adjust to changes in material handling requirements based on production demands.
  • Collaborate with other forklift operators and team members to optimize workflow.
  • Communicate effectively with production supervisors, warehouse staff, and other team members to coordinate material movements.
  • Report any issues or delays that may impact production schedules.

Benefits: Forklift Associate

  • Physical & Mental Wellbeing
    • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
    • Basic Life Insurance
    • Short & Long-Term Disability
    • Employee Assistance Program
    • Health Savings Account (H.S.A)
    • Paid Time Off
    • Virtual Care is available 24/7
      • Primary Care
      • Urgent Care
      • Behavioral Care
      • Dermatology
  • Compensation and Retirement Contributions
    • Competitive compensation
    • Attendance bonus
    • Career growth opportunities
    • 401(k) savings plan with company match
    • Referral Program

Our Mission

Premier Packaging provides innovative packaging solutions through a combination of curiosity, collaboration, and a culture built on excellence and an entrepreneurial spirit. We are responsive to our customers’ needs, committed to reducing our impact on the environment, and continually improve our processes to deliver quality products in a safe working environment. We ask ‘Why’ so we can deliver the ‘How.’

Education / Physical / Requirements: Forklift Associate

  • At least 18 years of age.
  • Forklift certification is preferred.
  • Knowledge of and adherence to safety regulations related to forklift operation.
  • 2-3 years experience as a forklift operator in a manufacturing or warehouse setting.
  • Experience with different types of forklifts (sit-down, stand-up, clamp, etc.).
  • Familiarity with handling and transporting materials within a corrugated manufacturing environment is a plus.
  • Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment.

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