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Packaging Associate Jobs in Washington, NC (NOW HIRING)

Full-Time Center Associate

New Bern, NC · On-site

$12.50 - $16.75/hr

Center Associate The Center Associate delivers world-class customer service to all retail customers by receiving and processing packages for courier shipment and operating copiers, fax machines ...

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Competitive compensation package (please inquire for details). * Opportunities for professional ... Sales Associates for its Chevrolet, Lincoln, Volvo, Kia and Mazda dealerships! The perfect ...

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Packaging Associate information

See Washington, NC salary details

$9

$14

$17

How much do packaging associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for packaging associate in Washington, NC is $14.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.55 and $15.48 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 cities near Washington, NC are hiring for Packaging Associate jobs?

Cities near Washington, NC with the most Packaging Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Packaging Associate job openings in Washington, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 64% Full Time, 33% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,644 per year, or $14.7 per hour.

$18.85/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Packaging Corporation Of America rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 150 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 119 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

As a Fortune 500 company, Packaging Corporation of America (PCA) is an ideas and solutions company. Our corrugated packaging business seeks to be the leader in helping our customers - large and small - package, transport and display products of all kinds. Our white paper business delivers Paper With Purpose by providing the highest level of customer service and operational excellence. We have approximately 15,000 team members in more than 100 locations in the United States that strive to meet the local needs of our customers. Our mission is to serve the needs of our customers, today and tomorrow, with products and services that exceed expectations for performance and environmental responsibility.
People • Customers • Trust
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Work as part of a team in support of a manufacturing operation with a goal of increasing productivity; decreasing downtime and waste.
Assume active role in overall plant and facilities-related work. Position requires assisting all jobs on the plant floor.
Follow all company safety rules and lock-out tag-out procedures.
Maintain shop and shop equipment per 5S Standards.
Other duties as assigned.
May be required to stack parts up to 30 lbs. for a period of up to 12 hours.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
High School Graduate or GED.
Be passionate about maintaining a safe work environment.
Must be able to work EVERY shift, as well as overtime and weekends as needed.
Must have a good attendance record.
Must be authorized to work in the U.S.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Experience in a packaging or other manufacturing environment is preferred.
Possess an understanding that temperatures and volumes of work may vary.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:
Must be willing to work closely on a day-to-day basis with other production personnel.
Ability to share ideas with others to solve problems of essential importance.
Excellent communication skills.
Thrive in a cross-functional team environment.
Work with a sense of urgency to reduce downtime of machines.
Strong verbal communication skills.
Ability to work in a fast paced environment and handle multiple requests simultaneously.
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
  • Starting salary for position: $18.85 per hour.
  • Bonus: Annual - Based upon achievement of plant performance metrics.
  • Paid Vacation: 1 weeks per calendar year. Pro-rata Vacation during the initial year of hire based upon start date within the calendar year.
  • Paid Holidays.
  • Within the first 30 days of employment, an employee (and their dependents) is eligible to enroll in certain benefit coverages -- medical, dental, and vision - and are automatically enrolled in life, AD&D, and disability coverages.
  • Upon hire, an employee is automatically enrolled in the 401k plan. The plan offers both pre-tax and Roth contribution options along with employer provided matching contributions
  • Disclaimer: The Compensation and Benefits information in this posting represents PCA's good faith and reasonable estimate of what it may pay for this position. The Company reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.

PCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Qualified Applicants must apply at careers.packagingcorp.com to be considered.

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