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Labeling Machine Operator Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator 2nd Shift

Columbia, SC · On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Assure that all date coding and bag labeling is correct i.e., packages, boxes, etc.Plan ahead on ... Can advance to Machine operator II through training and education after 1 year. Required ...

Machine Operator 2nd Shift

Columbia, SC · On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Assure that all date coding and bag labeling is correct i.e., packages, boxes, etc. * Plan ahead on ... Can advance to Machine operator II through training and education after 1 year. Required ...

Machine Operator 2nd Shift

Columbia, SC · On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Assure that all date coding and bag labeling is correct i.e., packages, boxes, etc. * Plan ahead on ... Can advance to Machine operator II through training and education after 1 year. Required ...

Machine Operator 1st Shift

Columbia, SC

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Assure that all date coding and bag labeling is correct i.e., packages, boxes, etc. * Plan ahead on ... Can advance to Machine operator II through training and education after 1 year. Required ...

New

Machine Operator 1st Shift

Columbia, SC · On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Assure that all date coding and bag labeling is correct i.e., packages, boxes, etc. * Plan ahead on ... Can advance to Machine operator II through training and education after 1 year. Required ...

New

Machine Operator 1st Shift

Columbia, SC · On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Assure that all date coding and bag labeling is correct i.e., packages, boxes, etc.Plan ahead on ... Can advance to Machine operator II through training and education after 1 year. Required ...

New

Extrusion Operator

Columbia, SC · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Pack filled spools, label spools/cartons/boxes according to instructions. * Identify and locate ... Level 2 Operate 1 machine efficiently with minimal assistance Efficiently manage / complete ...

Extrusion Operator

Columbia, SC · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Pack filled spools, label spools/cartons/boxes according to instructions. * Identify and locate ... Level 2 Operate 1 machine efficiently with minimal assistance Efficiently manage / complete ...

Extrusion Operator

Columbia, SC · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Pack filled spools, label spools/cartons/boxes according to instructions. * Identify and locate ... Level 2 Operate 1 machine efficiently with minimal assistance Efficiently manage / complete ...

Forklift Driver - Plant

Lexington, SC · On-site

$14.50 - $17/hr

And label, sort, wrap and tie product * Unload and stack material by raising and lowering lifting ... Machine Operator experience preferred; strong knowledge of machines in a manufacturing setting

Forklift Driver - Plant

Columbia, SC · On-site

$14 - $16.25/hr

And label, sort, wrap and tie product * Unload and stack material by raising and lowering lifting ... Machine Operator experience preferred; strong knowledge of machines in a manufacturing setting

Forklift Driver - Plant

West Columbia, SC · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

And label, sort, wrap and tie product * Unload and stack material by raising and lowering lifting ... Machine Operator experience preferred; strong knowledge of machines in a manufacturing setting

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Labeling Machine Operator information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$11

$16

$21

How much do labeling machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for labeling machine operator in Columbia, SC is $16.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectLabeling Machine OperatorPackaging Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification may be preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or production lines, operating labeling machineryPackaging lines, handling products and packaging equipment
Industry UsageManufacturing, food, pharmaceuticals, consumer goodsManufacturing, food processing, pharmaceuticals, logistics

The main difference is that Labeling Machine Operators focus on operating and maintaining labeling machinery, ensuring products are correctly labeled. Packaging Technicians handle the broader packaging process, including preparing products for shipment and managing packaging materials. Both roles require attention to detail and familiarity with manufacturing environments, but their specific tasks and equipment differ.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a labeling machine operator?

To thrive as a Labeling Machine Operator, you need a solid understanding of production processes, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with labeling machines, packaging equipment, and basic quality control systems is typically required, with some employers valuing forklift certification or experience with computerized control panels. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work well in a team are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure efficient, accurate labeling and packaging operations, minimizing errors and maintaining product quality.

What are common challenges a labeling machine operator might face, and how can they be addressed?

Labeling Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as machine jams, misaligned labels, or inconsistent label application due to equipment wear or product variation. Proactively performing routine maintenance, carefully monitoring machine settings, and promptly addressing minor issues can greatly reduce downtime. Collaborating with maintenance technicians and quality control teams is essential for quickly resolving persistent problems and ensuring production targets are met. Staying organized and attentive during shifts also helps prevent errors and maintain a smooth workflow.

What does a labeling machine operator do?

A Labeling Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining machines that apply labels to products or packaging. Their duties typically include loading labels, adjusting equipment for different product sizes, inspecting labels for accuracy and quality, and troubleshooting machine issues. They also ensure that labeling meets company and regulatory standards, maintain production records, and follow safety protocols. This role is essential in industries such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing where accurate labeling is crucial.
What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Labeling Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Labeling Machine Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Labeling Machine Operator job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,995 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Machine Operator 2nd Shift

Fresh Express

Columbia, SC • On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Other

Re-posted 24 days ago


Fresh Express rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

273rd of 436 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

2nd Shift 4:15PM - Until FinishThe Machine Operator should be able to independently operate identified/assigned packaging machines installed at the site.Duties and Responsibilities:Regular and reliable attendance is an essential function of this position.Compliance to SOP's, GMPs, Housekeeping, Safety, and all other FE policies.Must inspect settings for codes, dates, leaks, oxygen levels, and seals to ensure proper operation of the assigned equipment.Completes all required safety, Food safety, production, maintenance, etc. documentation as required. These forms which include, but are not limited to packaging machine forms, quality forms, packaging downtime forms, forming tube inspection and Teflon tape related forms.Be able to participate in process improvement projects or new product testing.Report any equipment malfunction to the PMO, floor coordinator or supervisor immediately.Report any unsafe condition immediately.An Operator III is able to independently run, and support assigned designated packaging machines and support equipment.Assists higher level Operators as needed.Executes necessary changeovers in equipment, film, printers, and related ancillary processes while ensuring production expectations are met.Assure that all date coding and bag labeling is correct i.e., packages, boxes, etc.Plan ahead on supplies needed for upcoming products per schedule.Keep work area and equipment clean and free of garbage/debris at all times.Able to assist in different lines or baggers as needed.Works as directed and as a teamSupports teammatesContributes to goalsAbility to set up multiple machines for startup and during productionMust be able and willing to assist in all jobs on line to keep machines running at all times.Works cooperatively with process owners to maintain quality standardsAssures quality products are being produced by meeting quality specifications for production on assigned line(s). Uses a variety of means for measurement such as equipment setting confirmation along with probes, tanks, and meters to monitor such things as bag atmospheres, leaker rates, weights, etc.Makes machine adjustments as needed to achieve and maintain expected equipment performance.Employees may be assigned to perform other tasks such as packing, palletizing, trimming, inserting master packs, housekeeping, rework, general labor activities, etc. on a temporary basis.Responsible for actively supporting the other members of the employee's work team including assisting with cross-training, new-hire/buddy assignments, and process support during breaks, meal periods, and other staff coverage as needed.Able to pass both written and hands-on LOTO (Lock-Out Tag-Out) training on a yearly basis and be able to successfully lock out machinery as needed.Can advance to Machine operator II through training and education after 1 year. Required Qualifications/Skills:Must have basic mechanical troubleshooting skills and know basic math such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, percentages, simple formulas, and conversions.Must take a written test to demonstrate proficiency.Must have ability to accurately track downtime and performance indicators.Must be able to successfully speak, read and write English at the level of work instructions, diagrams and related equipment documentation and support materials.Must adhere to GMP's (Good Manufacturing Practices) and PPE's (Personal Protection Equipment). Must be able to lift 75 pounds (dead lift) continual and box opening for 8 hours a day or more.Must pass a math aptitude test and must pass the required strength physical examination.Must have repetitive hand and eye movement skills.Must be able to stand for the duration of the shift (8 hours or more), perform repetitive motions throughout the shift such as push/pull/lift, twist, stoop, and bend continuously through the shiftBe able to climb stairs or step up onto a platform several times throughout the shift.Must be able to work in a noisy, wet, and cold environment of approximately 30-34 degrees FahrenheitMust be able to work 6 or more consecutive days including overtime, any shift, late nights, weekends, and holidays if necessary Other Desired Qualifications/Skills:Prior experience in a similar temperature/strenuous work environment preferred.Bilingual English/Spanish Experience:Must have previous experience operating related food processing equipment or equivalent.Must pass the written exam before being assigned to Operator III.Prior experience in a packing environment Education/Training:High School diploma/GED, some Technical School coursework, or Mechanical/Vocational Certification Other Information:The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees, and are not to be construed, as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified. Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the employer.
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