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Packaging Associate Jobs in Marion, IA (NOW HIRING)

Packaging Lead 1st Shift

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$18.25 - $25.25/hr

... associates. 100% Food Service, 4 bag soup lines, 1 tub line, 18 Kettles, 5 Filling lines, and 4 packaging lines. Products include Frozen Soups and Macaroni & Cheese Company History: Kraft Heinz in ...

Sanitation Technician

Hiawatha, IA · On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

... packaging industry, is looking for a 1st shift Sanitation Technician! Responsibilities include: * Follow all company policies and procedures as they relate to food and associate safety practices.

Sanitation Technician

Hiawatha, IA · On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

... packaging industry, is looking for a 1st shift Sanitation Technician! Responsibilities include: * Follow all company policies and procedures as they relate to food and associate safety practices.

As an audit associate, you will play a key role in delivering high-quality audit and assurance ... Benefits package that includes health/dental/vision insurance * 401(k) * Paid time off and paid ...

As an audit associate, you will play a key role in delivering high-quality audit and assurance ... Benefits package that includes health/dental/vision insurance * 401(k) * Paid time off and paid ...

CCB Packaging is looking for experienced Maintenance Technicians starting at $32/hr! Immediate ... An Industrial Maintenance Associates degree and/or equivalent on the job experience. Minimum of ...

CCB Packaging is looking for experienced Maintenance Technicians starting at $32/hr! Immediate ... An Industrial Maintenance Associates degree and/or equivalent on the job experience. Minimum of ...

Sales Associate

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $18.75/hr

Remove merchandise from packaging, match items with stock numbers, and price and tag merchandise ... The associate is required to talk and hear. Must be able to work required shifts including nights ...

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Packaging Associate information

See Marion, IA salary details

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How much do packaging associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for packaging associate in Marion, IA is $16.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.38 and $17.74 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a packaging associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Packaging Associate, you generally need attention to detail, manual dexterity, and the ability to follow safety and quality standards, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with packaging machinery, conveyor systems, and inventory tracking software is typically required. Strong teamwork, time management, and reliability are crucial soft skills that help maintain steady workflow and meet production targets. These skills ensure efficient, safe handling of products and consistent output in fast-paced manufacturing environments.

What is a packaging associate?

Packaging Associates are workers responsible for preparing products for shipment by packaging them according to company standards. Their tasks typically include assembling boxes, labeling packages, inspecting products for quality, and ensuring items are securely packed to prevent damage during transportation. They often work in warehouses, manufacturing plants, or distribution centers and may use various tools and machines to assist with packaging. Attention to detail and the ability to work efficiently are important skills for this role.

How much do you get paid for packaging associate?

Packaging associates typically earn an hourly wage ranging from $12 to $16, depending on experience, location, and employer. Some positions may offer overtime pay or shift differentials, and the role often requires basic skills in handling packaging equipment and materials.

What is the difference between Packaging Associate vs Material Handler?

AspectPackaging AssociateMaterial Handler
Primary RoleAssembles, packages, and prepares products for shipmentMoves, loads, and unloads materials within a facility
Skills & CertificationsBasic math, attention to detail, possibly forklift certificationForklift operation, inventory management, safety training
Work EnvironmentWarehouse, production lines, packaging stationsWarehouse, distribution centers, manufacturing plants
Industry UsageManufacturing, logistics, retailManufacturing, warehousing, distribution

While both roles operate within warehouse and manufacturing settings, Packaging Associates focus on preparing products for shipment by packaging and labeling, whereas Material Handlers manage the movement and storage of materials. Both roles require safety awareness and may involve forklift operation, but their core responsibilities differ significantly.

What are some common challenges packaging associates face, and how can they be overcome?

Packaging Associates often encounter challenges such as meeting tight production deadlines, maintaining quality control, and adapting to repetitive tasks. To succeed, it's important to develop strong attention to detail, effective time management skills, and a focus on safety protocols. Collaborating closely with team members and supervisors can help streamline workflow and resolve issues quickly, making the environment efficient and supportive.

What job categories do people searching Packaging Associate jobs in Marion, IA look for?

The top searched job categories for Packaging Associate jobs in Marion, IA are:

What cities near Marion, IA are hiring for Packaging Associate jobs?

Cities near Marion, IA with the most Packaging Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Packaging Associate job openings in Marion, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,153 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Packaging Lead 1st Shift

Kraft Heinz

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

$18.25 - $25.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Kraft Heinz rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 122 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

231st of 438 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Job DescriptionPackaging Lead-1st Shift, 6:30am-3:00pmLocation:

Kraft Heinz - Cedar Rapids

4601 C Street SW

Cedar Rapids, IA, 52404

Plant Overview:

3-Shift Operation

Non- Union Facility with approximately 200 hourly staff members which are a mix of temporary and full-time associates.

100% Food Service, 4 bag soup lines, 1 tub line, 18 Kettles, 5 Filling lines, and 4 packaging lines.

Products include Frozen Soups and Macaroni & Cheese

Company History: Kraft Heinz in Cedar Rapids started as Ashby Soups and was originated in the mid 1980's by Jamie and Shannon Ashby, along with their mother, using family held recipes for many kinds of soups. In the 1990s' the name was changed to Quality Chef Foods. Heinz acquired Quality Chef foods in the mid 2000's. In 2015 Kraft and Heinz merged to become Kraft Heinz as we know it today.

Community Overview:

The Cedar Rapids and Iowa City area is known as the cultural corridor. There is always something to do, a site to visit or a show to see! Also, from Cedar Rapids there is an easy commute, great school communities, low crime rates and bike friendly. Cost of living ratio great. Cedar Rapids is a vibrant city, encompassing unique attractions, exciting events, specialty shopping, a dynamic art scene, and a large variety of restaurant and nightlife options. You'll find that Cedar Rapids offers one of the best places to live, work and play in the Midwest.

More information on Cedar Rapids, IA can be found at: http://www.cedar-rapids.org/

Job Overview:

Are you ready to join a team that produces quality products that are amongst over 50 household brands in the U.S.? This is a place for you to create your career and make a difference! Kraft Heinz in Cedar Rapids is looking for candidates that want to make great soups!

The purpose of the Team Lead is to successfully coordinate designated areas of production process and the hand-offs between including preparation, cooking and packaging of products. Also to provide guidance, training and development to others in department/area.

Responsibilities & Duties:
  • Coordinates with CI Lead and Maintenance on key areas of focus.

  • Manages Team Members execution of Clean Inspect Lubricate (CIL), Centerline (CL), 5S, basic problem solving and Oscar system execution.

  • Coaches and develops teams by building problem solving skills within the process.

  • Assists teams with developing and implementing CIL, CL, and Changeover programs.

  • Responsible for escalating production issues and when gaps in performance prevent themselves.

  • Continuously improve their technical skill set by progressing through Step Up Card system.

  • Supervise all subordinates in department to make sure all areas are functioning together.

  • Work directly with subordinates to minimize mistakes and ensure a continuous flow of production.

  • Coordinate transition of materials and workflow with surrounding department leads and supervisors.

  • Address any concerns with peripheral departments. (ie: Safety / Quality / Maintenance)

  • Assign work tasks to individuals in your area.

  • Insure IQS documentation is entered accurately and timely.

  • Quality (verify subordinates accurately following practices)

  • Safety (verify all required safe work practices-ie: PPE, JSA)

  • Prepare DDS meeting data ahead of meeting start time and Lead/Attend DDS Meetings.

  • Manages team to meet Right the First Time objectives.

  • Holds team members accountable to reach daily Scrap Goals.

  • Monitors run rates to insure Run to Target goals are met.

  • Execution of Operations Systems (OSCAR, DDS, CL, CIL...)

  • Responsible for tracking safety training issues within the department.

  • Responsible for the successful operation within the department by ensuring materials are present, employees are on task, and enforcing break schedule.

  • Responsible for educating and training employees on machinery and job functions within the department.

  • Responsible for receiving complaints and forwarding concerns to the supervisor.

  • Responsible for all production documentation and IQS inputs within area of responsibility.

  • Support supervisor as required for documenting corrective action procedures.

  • Lead start and end of shift performance.

  • Team coach, motivator, enabler

  • Maintain team's organization and document management.

  • Assists Supervisors with analyzing employee performance.

  • Coordinates employee cross training with Production Clerk.

  • Participates in root cause problem solving efforts on key chronic losses for the process

  • Monitor KPI Performance and trends to identify leading losses.

  • Effective waste stream monitoring and executing reduction goals.

  • Participate in the QRMP yearly audit and assist in the development of procedures and corrective actions.

  • Accountable for the QRMP (Quality Risk Management Process) system and operational standards as outlined in the factory accountability list in order to achieve targeted RCR.

  • As necessary, other duties and/or projects may be assigned

Qualifications:
  • Ability to communicate effectively.

  • Ability to work independently and with others.

  • Must be able to work in a safe manner.

  • Must ensure quality products are being packaged.

  • Responsible for following all Food Safety Policies and Safety Procedures. Responsible for Q-RMP standards implementation as defined by the accountability list document

  • Employees will follow all safety protocols and perform their job responsibilities in a safe manner. Safety is everyone's responsibility.

  • Successful candidates must have the willingness to:

Always perform to the highest level of competence. Cooperate as a team. Be open, especially with information and knowledge. Trust and be trustworthy. Respect others - customers, suppliers, colleagues - and yourself. Be accountable for one's actions.

Benefits & Compensation Overview:

Medical.

Dental.

Vision.

Additional perks: Pet Insurance, (EAP) Employee Assistance Program, etc.

(HRA) Health Reimbursement Account or (HSA) Health Savings Account.

Pay Rate: $27.97

Start earning PTO at hire, generous

Non-Union (FOIP) Field Operations Incentive Plan- BONUS PLAN

Benefits: Coverage for employees (and their eligible dependents) through affordable access to healthcare, protection, and savingfor the future, we offer plans tailored to meet you and your family's needs. Coveragefor benefits will be in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans and associated governing plan documents.

Wellbeing: We offer events, resources, and learning opportunities that inspire aphysical, social, emotional, and financial well-being lifestyle for our employees and their families.

You'll be able to participate in a variety of benefits and wellbeing programs that may vary by role, country, region, union status, and other employment status factors, for example:

  • Physical - Medical, Prescription Drug, Dental, Vision, Screenings/Assessments

  • Social - Paid Time Off, Company Holidays, Leave of Absence, Recognition, Training

  • Emotional - Employee Assistance Program, Wellbeing Programs, Family Support Programs

  • Financial - 401k,Life, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, Disability

Location(s)

Quality Chef - Cedar Rapids

Kraft Heinz is an Equal Opportunity Employer that prohibits discrimination or harassment of any type. All qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Applicants who require an accommodation to participate in the job application or hiring process should contact NAZTAOps@kraftheinz.com.


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