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Machine Operator Packer Jobs in Winona, MN (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator Packer information

See Winona, MN salary details

$12

$15

$18

How much do machine operator packer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator packer in Winona, MN is $15.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $16.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Machine Operator Packer vs Machine Operator?

AspectMachine Operator PackerMachine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, technical training often required
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, packaging linesManufacturing, production facilities
Job FocusOperating packaging machinery, packing productsOperating various manufacturing equipment
Common Industry UsageYesYes

Machine Operator Packer and Machine Operator roles both involve operating machinery in manufacturing settings. The main difference is that Machine Operator Packer specifically focuses on packaging and packing products, while Machine Operator may handle a broader range of manufacturing equipment. Both roles typically require similar certifications and work in similar environments, but their job duties differ based on the production stage.

What does a machine operator packer do?

A machine operator packer operates and monitors machinery used to package products, ensuring they are correctly filled, sealed, and labeled. They may also perform quality checks, handle materials, and maintain equipment in a manufacturing or warehouse environment, often following safety protocols and using tools like forklifts or packing machines.
Infographic showing various Machine Operator Packer job openings in Winona, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,094 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

Production Associate - 3rd shift - Whitehall East

Ornua Co-operative Limited

Whitehall, WI • On-site

$15 - $23.57/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Production Associate - NATEC                       

Career Level: S1

Function: Operations                               

Reports to: Production Supervisor 

Location: Whitehall East

Position Type: Full time            

Schedule: Sunday - Thursday, 10 pm - 6 am, overtime as necessary

Pay: $20.50 + 15% shift differential = $23.57

_____________________________________________________________________

Ornua is a leading dairy company and the proud owner of premium dairy brands enjoyed by consumers around the world. With annual revenues exceeding $3.7 billion and a global workforce of approximately 2,800 employees, Ornua operates across 10 business units and 12 production facilities spanning Europe, North America, the Middle East, and Africa.

In North America, Ornua is focused on delivering high-quality dairy products and ingredients to retail, foodservice, and food manufacturing customers. The company supports the growth of globally recognized brands, including Kerrygold, while also providing innovative dairy ingredient solutions to meet evolving customer needs.

Backed by a strong global supply network and deep dairy expertise, Ornua combines the strength of an international organization with a commitment to local markets, customers, and communities. Through its manufacturing facilities, commercial teams, and customer partnerships across the United States and Canada, Ornua continues to drive growth, innovation, and excellence throughout the dairy industry.

At Ornua, our success is built on our people, our values, and our commitment to delivering quality products and exceptional service to customers every day.

WHY THIS ROLE IS VALUABLE

As our Production Associate, you will have the opportunity to take ownership of your role and make a direct impact on the quality, safety, and efficiency of our manufacturing operations. Qualified applicants must be able to perform all tasks noted below in a busy environment with limited supervision. From time to time, you may be required to work other shifts or be temporarily moved to other departments in the plant. Must also be prepared for any related duties (within reason) assigned by the Supervisor or Management. Your contributions will strengthen our operations, support our culture of continuous improvement, and help Ornua deliver high-quality products enjoyed by consumers around the world.

 

KEY AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY

  • Assist IWS operator with over wrap machine and fill roll changes
  • Package finished product including box making, lining, filling, closing, and palletizing.
  • Inspect cheese products, packing and boxes for damage, report deficiencies to proper parties. 
  • Complete all necessary cleaning and workplace sanitation requirements.
  • Perform all tasks in a busy environment with limited supervision.
  • Record production information in a tablet, computer or by hand.
  • Attend all required company training.
  • Flexible to support work in all areas as needed.
  • Perform duties following all good manufacturing practices (GMP's) including food, equipment, and operating safety requirements.

 

KEY REQUIREMENTS

Minimum Qualifications

 

  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • Ability to communicate in English
  • High School diploma or equivalent

 

Desired Qualifications

  • Prior manufacturing experience or food manufacturing experience

 

 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

This role requires regular standing, walking, bending, twisting, pushing, pulling, and lifting up to 60 pounds. Employees must be able to perform repetitive motions and safely operate equipment while following all safety and quality procedures.

 

WORKING ENVIRONMENT

Work is performed in a food manufacturing facility with variable temperatures - cooler warehouse areas and warmer production zones. The environment includes exposure to moving equipment, moderate to loud noise levels, and required use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety shoes, hearing protection, gloves, and hairnets.

 

WHY ORNUA?

Ornua is a purpose-driven, values-led co-operative creating value for Irish dairy farming families through our global operations. With 10 business units, 16 production facilities, and in-market teams across the world, we operate through two divisions - Ornua Foods, which markets our iconic consumer brands including Kerrygold and Pilgrims Choice, and Ornua Ingredients, which provides innovative, customized dairy ingredient solutions to our customers.

  • Our Values lie at the core of everything we do. Our five values encourage us to Seek and Embrace New Ideas, Make It Happen, Be Our True Selves, Show You Care, and Achieve Great Things Together.
  • We invest in our people and foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
  • Career progression opportunities, including global mobility.
  • Comprehensive benefits with region-specific offerings.

 

TOTAL REWARDS

Total Rewards at Ornua Ingredients North America will include a competitive salary and quarterly bonus scheme for production. The following are a list of other benefits you can avail of: low employee contribution for Medical, Vision and Dental benefits cover; 401k; Paid Time Off; Maternity Leave (20 weeks); Parental Leave; Reward & Recognition program; Volunteering opportunities; Long Service Awards.

 

Ornua is an equal opportunity employer.  All qualified applicants will be provided with equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, disability status, or genetic information.  Ornua is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you require an accommodation to complete the application or interview process, please contact Ornua People Services at 833-450-2385 or peopleservicesus@ornua.com. 

 

This employer participates in E-Verify, a federal program that verifies the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States. As part of the hiring process, information provided on your Form I-9 will be submitted to the E-Verify system. E-Verify compares your information to records maintained by the Department of Homeland Security and the Social Security Administration.
For more information about E-Verify, please visit 
www.e-verify.gov.