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Packaging Automation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Provide electrical and controls support for packaging automation, including highspeed packaging equipment * Support and partner with plant maintenance teams on troubleshooting, reliability ...

Knowledge of packaging automation, including automated packaging machinery, case erectors, palletizers, and stretch wrap machines. * Expertise in electrical automation, including the design and ...

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From the initial concept and design layout to the installation and ongoing service backup, PACKAGING SYSTEMS, INC. is the one source for all of your packaging automation needs. We are dedicated to ...

Lead Electrical Engineer

Oostburg, WI · On-site

$169K - $177K/yr

Machinery ManufacturingSalary: $110K-$130KCompany SummaryWe are a leading provider of innovative packaging automation solutions, delivering cutting-edge systems to businesses of all sizes. Recognized ...

Senior Packaging Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$95K - $105K/yr

Familiarity with packaging automation, material innovation, and sustainability initiatives About You * Strong analytical and mathematical skills with the ability to perform cost analysis and optimize ...

Showing results 41-60

Packaging Automation information

See salary details

$31K

$116.6K

$169.5K

How much do packaging automation jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for packaging automation in the United States is $116,607.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,500.00 and $139,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in packaging automation?

To excel in Packaging Automation, you need a solid background in mechanical or electrical engineering, automation technology, and industrial processes, often supported by a relevant degree or technical certification. Familiarity with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), robotics systems, and automation software such as Siemens or Allen-Bradley is typically required. Strong troubleshooting skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork distinguish high performers in this field. These competencies are crucial for ensuring efficient, reliable, and safe packaging operations in manufacturing environments.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in packaging automation, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in packaging automation often encounter challenges such as integrating new technologies with existing equipment, troubleshooting unexpected machinery downtime, and maintaining high productivity while ensuring quality standards. These challenges can be addressed by staying updated on the latest automation trends, participating in regular training, and fostering close collaboration with maintenance, engineering, and production teams. Additionally, strong problem-solving skills and proactive communication are essential for quickly resolving issues and ensuring seamless operations.

What is the difference between Packaging Automation vs Packaging Technician?

AspectPackaging AutomationPackaging Technician
CredentialsTechnical certifications, automation trainingHigh school diploma, technical skills
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, automation systemsPackaging lines, manual equipment
Industry UsageDesign, maintain, and improve automated packaging systemsOperate and troubleshoot packaging machinery

Packaging Automation involves designing, programming, and maintaining automated packaging systems, requiring technical certifications. Packaging Technicians focus on operating and troubleshooting packaging machinery manually. Both roles are essential in manufacturing, but Packaging Automation emphasizes system integration and automation technology, while Packaging Technicians handle day-to-day machine operation.

Are packaging automation jobs in demand?

Packaging automation jobs are in demand due to the increasing use of automated systems in manufacturing and distribution centers. These roles often require skills in operating machinery, troubleshooting, and understanding control systems, with job growth driven by the need for efficiency and cost reduction in supply chains.

What is packaging automation?

Packaging automation involves using machinery and technology to perform packaging tasks such as filling, sealing, labeling, and palletizing products. It improves efficiency, consistency, and safety in manufacturing environments and often requires knowledge of control systems and mechanical skills. Packaging automation roles may involve operating, maintaining, or programming automated equipment.
More about Packaging Automation jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Packaging Automation jobs?

The most popular types of Packaging Automation jobs are:

What states have the most Packaging Automation jobs?

States with the most job openings for Packaging Automation jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Packaging Automation jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Packaging Automation jobs are:

Infographic showing various Packaging Automation job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 93% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,607 per year, or $56.1 per hour.

Manufacturing Automation Specialist

Merck & Co., Inc.

Wilson, NC • On-site

$87K - $137K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Merck rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 51 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

43rd of 86 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

Job Description
Technical expert with demonstrated expertise in PLC Programming & Troubleshooting, HMI Development & Support, Robotics, Machine Vision, Industrial Networks, SDLC/CSV, Change Control, GMP Documentation, Root Cause Analysis and Continuous Improvement.
Automation & Controls Engineering
• Provide technical support for industrial automation systems supporting manufacturing and packaging operations.
• Troubleshoot and optimize PLCs, HMIs, robotics, machine vision systems, motion control and servo-driven equipment.
• Lead root cause analysis and implement sustainable corrective actions.
• Support integration of new equipment and emerging automation technologies.
Digital Manufacturing
• Support serialization, aggregation, SAP ATTP and track-and-trace solutions.
• Drive data integrity, cybersecurity and digital manufacturing initiatives.
Project Leadership
• Lead automation projects from concept through implementation.
• Develop requirements, functional specifications, testing strategies and deployment plans.
Validation, Documentation & Compliance
• Author functional specifications, design documents, IQ/OQ protocols, SOPs, risk assessments and change controls.
• Support SDLC and Computer System Validation activities.
• Lead automation-related deviations, investigations and CAPAs.
Continuous Improvement
• Drive reliability, efficiency and modernization initiatives using Lean and structured problem solving.
Required Qualifications
• Highschool Graduate or Equivalent
- Minimum 3 years of experience supporting industrial automation systems in manufacturing.
• Hands-on troubleshooting experience with PLCs and HMI systems.
• Experience with SDLC documentation, change controls and validation activities.
• Strong analytical, communication and project management skills.
- On call availability nights and weekends.
Preferred Qualifications
• B&R, Allen-Bradley/Rockwell, Siemens or Schneider PLC experience.
• Experience with Robotics, Vision Systems, Motion Control and Packaging Automation.
• Serialization and Aggregation experience (SAP ATTP, Systech Guardian preferred).
• Knowledge of pharmaceutical, biotech, medical device or regulated manufacturing environments.
• Data Integrity, Cybersecurity, Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement expertise.
Required Skills:
Audit Management, Automation Engineering, Business Process Improvements, Cybersecurity, Data Integrity, Data Management, GMP Compliance, Industrial Automation, Industrial Networks, Lean Manufacturing, Machine Vision (MV), Manufacturing Environments, PLC Programming, PLC Troubleshooting, Problem Management, Project Leadership, Quality Management, Real-Time Programming, Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC)
Preferred Skills:
Current Employees apply HERE
Current Contingent Workers apply HERE
US and Puerto Rico Residents Only:
Our company is committed to inclusion, ensuring that candidates can engage in a hiring process that exhibits their true capabilities. Please click here if you need an accommodation during the application or hiring process.
As an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, we provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. As a federal contractor, we comply with all affirmative action requirements for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. For more information about personal rights under the U.S. Equal Opportunity Employment laws, visit:
EEOC Know Your Rights
EEOC GINA Supplement
We are proud to be a company that embraces the value of bringing together, talented, and committed people with diverse experiences, perspectives, skills and backgrounds. The fastest way to breakthrough innovation is when people with diverse ideas, broad experiences, backgrounds, and skills come together in an inclusive environment. We encourage our colleagues to respectfully challenge one another's thinking and approach problems collectively.
Learn more about your rights, including under California, Colorado and other US State Acts
The salary range for this role is
$87,300.00 - $137,400.00
This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. An employee's position within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but not limited to relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, geographic location, government requirements, and business or organizational needs.
The successful candidate will be eligible for annual bonus and long-term incentive, if applicable.
We offer a comprehensive package of benefits. Available benefits include medical, dental, vision healthcare and other insurance benefits (for employee and family), retirement benefits, including 401(k), paid holidays, vacation, and compassionate and sick days. More information about benefits is available at https://jobs.merck.com/us/en/compensation-and-benefits.
You can apply for this role through https://jobs.merck.com/us/en (or via the Workday Jobs Hub if you are a current employee). The application deadline for this position is stated on this posting.
San Francisco Residents Only: We will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records for employment in compliance with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance
Los Angeles Residents Only: We will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance
Search Firm Representatives Please Read Carefully
Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA, also known as Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC, Rahway, NJ, USA, does not accept unsolicited assistance from search firms for employment opportunities. All CVs / resumes submitted by search firms to any employee at our company without a valid written search agreement in place for this position will be deemed the sole property of our company. No fee will be paid in the event a candidate is hired by our company as a result of an agency referral where no pre-existing agreement is in place. Where agency agreements are in place, introductions are position specific. Please, no phone calls or emails.
Employee Status:
Regular
Relocation:
No relocation
VISA Sponsorship:
No
Travel Requirements:
10%
Flexible Work Arrangements:
Not Applicable
Shift:
1st - Day
Valid Driving License:
No
Hazardous Material(s):
n/a
Job Posting End Date:
08/28/2026
*A job posting is effective until 11:59:59PM on the day BEFORE the listed job posting end date. Please ensure you apply to a job posting no later than the day BEFORE the job posting end date.

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