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Food Packaging Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CRYOPAK INC

Packaging Machine Operator

Memphis, TN · On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

... food, and electronic companies. Cryopak helps to maintain the integrity of our customer's products ... The primary responsibility of the Packaging Machine Operator is to perform skilled work in the ...

Shearer's Foods

Packaging Machine Operator

Brewster, OH · On-site

$21.01/hr

... been awarded the food industry's highest award for environmental sustainability, as well as ... Responsibilities Packaging Machine Operator Afternoon Shift 3pm to 11pm Sunday to Thursday Training ...

Shearer's Foods

Packaging Machine Operator

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

... been awarded the food industry's highest award for environmental sustainability, as well as ... Responsibilities Packaging Machine Operator Dedication , Dependability , and a Willingness to learn ...

Shearer's Foods

Packaging Machine Operator

Massillon, OH · On-site

$23.30 - $26.30/hr

... been awarded the food industry's highest award for environmental sustainability, as well as ... Responsibilities Packaging Machine Operator Millennium Plant | Massillon, Ohio $23.30/hr - $26.30 ...

Shearer's Foods

Packaging Machine Operator

Perham, MN · On-site

$20.65/hr

... been awarded the food industry's highest award for environmental sustainability, as well as ... Responsibilities Packaging Machine Operator * Beginning of Week Days - 7:00AM - 7:00PM Sunday ...

Shearer's Foods

Packaging Machine Operator

Perham, MN · On-site

$20.65 - $23.65/hr

... been awarded the food industry's highest award for environmental sustainability, as well as ... Responsibilities Packaging Machine Operator * Beginning of Week Days - 7:00AM - 7:00PM Sunday ...

Shearer's Foods

Packaging Machine Operator

Perham, MN · On-site

$20.65 - $23.65/hr

... been awarded the food industry's highest award for environmental sustainability, as well as ... Responsibilities Packaging Machine Operator * Beginning of Week Days - 7:00AM - 7:00PM Sunday ...

Lactalis LAG

Packaging Machine Operator

Merrill, WI · On-site

$23.75/hr

From your PASSION to ours Machine Operators are responsible for operating packaging filling ... Experience in a food industry is ideal; stable and dependable work history is required. Skills ...

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Food Packaging Machine Operator information

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$12

$19

$28

How much do food packaging machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for food packaging machine operator in the United States is $19.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a machine operator's job salary?

A food packaging machine operator typically earns an average hourly wage ranging from $12 to $20, depending on experience, location, and employer. Annual salaries generally range from $25,000 to $40,000, with opportunities for overtime and skill development in a manufacturing environment.

What are some common challenges faced by Food Packaging Machine Operators, and how can they be addressed?

Food Packaging Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as equipment malfunctions, maintaining product quality standards, and meeting production deadlines. To address these, operators benefit from a strong understanding of machine troubleshooting and regular maintenance routines. Effective communication with maintenance teams and supervisors is essential for resolving issues quickly, and careful attention to detail helps ensure packaging meets safety and quality requirements. Continuous training and staying updated on new packaging technologies can also help operators manage these challenges more effectively.

How to become a packaging operator?

To become a food packaging machine operator, typically a high school diploma or equivalent is required. On-the-job training is common, and familiarity with packaging machinery, attention to detail, and the ability to follow safety procedures are important. Some employers may prefer candidates with prior experience or certifications in equipment operation or safety standards.

Is being a packaging operator hard?

Being a food packaging machine operator involves operating and maintaining packaging equipment, which requires attention to detail, manual dexterity, and adherence to safety protocols. The job can be physically demanding and may involve repetitive tasks, but it generally does not require advanced technical skills or extensive training. Workers often need to follow specific procedures and may work in shifts, depending on the employer.

What is the highest paying machine operator job?

The highest paying machine operator jobs are often found in specialized industries such as aerospace, pharmaceuticals, or electronics manufacturing, where operators may require advanced technical skills and certifications. These roles typically offer higher wages due to the complexity of equipment and safety requirements, with some positions paying over $25 per hour or more depending on experience and location.

What is the difference between Food Packaging Machine Operator vs Food Packaging Technician?

AspectFood Packaging Machine OperatorFood Packaging Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; specialized training or certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentFactories, production lines, manufacturing plantsManufacturing facilities, quality control labs, production areas
Job FocusOperating and monitoring packaging machineryMaintaining, troubleshooting, and improving packaging processes

The Food Packaging Machine Operator primarily focuses on operating packaging equipment on the production line, ensuring products are packaged efficiently. In contrast, the Food Packaging Technician handles maintenance, troubleshooting, and process improvements to optimize packaging operations. Both roles require knowledge of machinery and safety protocols, but technicians often have more technical training and responsibilities related to equipment upkeep.

What does a Food Packaging Machine Operator do?

A Food Packaging Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining machinery that packages food products. Their duties include ensuring machines run efficiently, troubleshooting issues, monitoring product quality, and following safety and hygiene regulations. They may also be involved in cleaning equipment and keeping records of production data. This role is essential for maintaining the quality and safety of packaged food items.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Food Packaging Machine Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Food Packaging Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with automated packaging equipment, quality control systems, and basic computer interfaces is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and the ability to follow safety protocols make someone stand out in this position. These skills are crucial for maintaining product quality, ensuring operational efficiency, and upholding food safety standards.
More about Food Packaging Machine Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Food Packaging Machine Operator jobs? Cities with the most Food Packaging Machine Operator job openings:
What states have the most Food Packaging Machine Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Food Packaging Machine Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Food Packaging Machine Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Food Packaging Machine Operator jobs are:
Food Packaging Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Packaging Machine Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,564 per year, or $20 per hour.
Packaging Machine Operator

Packaging Machine Operator

CRYOPAK INC

Memphis, TN • On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Cryopak is an innovative, cold chain & temperature-controlled packaging solutions manufacturer, for pharmaceutical, life science, biotech, food, and electronic companies. Cryopak helps to maintain the integrity of our customer’s products through the design, testing and manufacturing of packaging and materials for shipping cold chain products. We also provide the hardware and software for temperature verification along the distribution process.

Job Summary:

The primary responsibility of the Packaging Machine Operator is to perform skilled work in the setup, operation, basic maintenance and repair of manufacturing and/or packaging equipment to safely and effectively produce temperature‑controlled packaging products and related goods in accordance with established quality policies and manufacturing procedures.

Essential Job Functions:

  • Set-up and operate manufacturing and/or packaging equipment
  • Load and feed machinery with specified raw materials and parts
  • Perform basic repairs and maintenance as needed during production hours and coordinates with Maintenance Mechanic to perform advanced troubleshooting and preventive maintenance
  • Refer to work order package and procedural instructions for each assignment before commencing work
  • Assure all work assigned is performed in accordance with specifications, instructions, and requirements
  • Assist in the performance of a variety of manual labor related to production including but not limited to handling, repeated handling, push, pull, lift, assembly, loading and unloading, packing, and palletization of goods
  • Perform assignments in accordance with established safety policies and procedures
  • Perform any specified quality assurance checks designated for each assignment adhering to company policies
  • Record specified production information thoroughly and accurately in work order package
  • Meet production standards within a reasonable time depending on the degree of difficulty of the designated assignment
  • Provide guidance to other individuals on the line, of next steps in the operating line as needed

Minimum Requirements:

  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent desired
  • At least 3 years of experience operating a gel-pack packaging machine
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to troubleshoot basic equipment issues
  • Light industrial maintenance knowledge (nice to have)
  • Must be able to lift 65 lbs with the ability to bend, reach, kneel, and stand for extended period of time.
  • Capable of preparing and processing reports and production orders.
  • Ability to perform basic mathematical operations.
  • Dependable, with a solid work ethic and a positive attitude.
  • Excellent attendance and punctuality are mandatory
  • Must have reliable and dependable transportation to report to work daily.
  • Advanced proficiency in spoken and written English sufficient for safety, process, quality, and technical communication.

Required Competencies:

  • Good multitasking and prioritization skills.
  • Must be able to work effectively, courteously, and respectfully with coworkers and other personnel.
  • Ability to work in a team environment.
  • Good time management skills.
  • Good analytical and problem-solving skills.

WHY JOIN US:

At Cryopak, we strive to offer a comprehensive benefits package that helps you and your family maintain health and well-being -both physically and financially. Our comprehensive benefits package includes:

  • Medical Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Voluntary Accident, Critical Illness, and Hospital Indemnity Insurance
  • Voluntary Life and AD&D
  • Short-Term Disability
  • Pet Insurance
  • Commuter Transit Benefits
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan w/Safe Harbor Employer Contribution
  • Paid Holidays
  • PTO

It is our policy that equal employment opportunity be provided without regard to age, race, creed, color, religion, sex, disability, pregnancy, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, ancestry, national or ethnic origin, citizenship status, military status or status as a disabled or protected veteran, or any legally recognized status entitled to protection under applicable federal, state, or local laws.