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Packaging Machine Operator Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator

Salina, KS · On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Job Summary Machine Operator I is responsible for the set up and operation of a production machine in accordance with established procedures and guidelines. Secures and maintains material and ...

Machine Operator

Topeka, KS · On-site

$14 - $16.50/hr

The CNC Machine Operator will be responsible for using computer numerically controlled (CNC) machinery safely and accurately to perform a variety of functions. The ideal candidate will have a strong ...

New

Machine Operator

Topeka, KS

$14 - $16.50/hr

The CNC Machine Operator will be responsible for using computer numerically controlled (CNC) machinery safely and accurately to perform a variety of functions. The ideal candidate will have a strong ...

New

Machine Operator

Salina, KS

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Job Summary Machine Operator I is responsible for the set up and operation of a production machine in accordance with established procedures and guidelines. Secures and maintains material and ...

Day shift starting pay $20.36, hours 6:45am-7pm Night shift starting pay $22.39, hours 6:45pm-7am As an Extrusion PVC Machine Operator, you will be responsible for operating and monitoring machinery ...

Day shift starting pay $20.36, hours 6:45am-7pm Night shift starting pay $22.39, hours 6:45pm-7am As an Extrusion PVC Machine Operator, you will be responsible for operating and monitoring machinery ...

Machine Operator

Wichita, KS · On-site

$15.25 - $18/hr

The Machine Operator is responsible for operating and monitoring production machinery used in the manufacturing of cabinet doors. This role ensures cabinet door components are produced accurately ...

Machine Operator

Wichita, KS · On-site

$15.25 - $18/hr

The Machine Operator is responsible for operating and monitoring production machinery used in the manufacturing of cabinet doors. This role ensures cabinet door components are produced accurately ...

Machine Operator

Lawrence, KS · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

As a Machine Operator, you will be responsible for the efficient setup, operation, and basic care of production equipment to meet daily output and quality targets. You will play a key part in ...

Machine Operator

Ottawa, KS

$15 - $17.75/hr

Loads machines with raw material and monitors production run using measuring devices, such as, comparators, micrometers, calipers and various other inspect gauges. Reworks and directs reworking of ...

Machine Operator

Solomon, KS · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

This Machine Operator is responsible for the safe operation of heavy equipment such as a forklift, JCB, and Doosan. * Inspect equipment daily before operations. * Work alongside team members to meet ...

Showing results 21-40

Packaging Machine Operator information

See Kansas salary details

$11

$17

$25

How much do packaging machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for packaging machine operator in Kansas is $17.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $19.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a packaging machine operator?

Packaging Machine Operators are skilled workers responsible for running, monitoring, and maintaining machinery that packages products in factories or warehouses. They set up the equipment, ensure it runs efficiently, load materials, and inspect finished packages for quality. Their role also includes troubleshooting minor issues, performing regular maintenance, and following safety standards to prevent accidents. Packaging Machine Operators are essential for ensuring that goods are properly packed and ready for shipment or sale.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a packaging machine operator?

To thrive as a Packaging Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with automated packaging machinery, basic computer systems, and safety certifications like OSHA are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help operators adapt to production changes and prevent downtime. These skills are crucial for maintaining product quality, operational efficiency, and workplace safety.

What are the most common challenges packaging machine operators face during a typical shift?

Packaging Machine Operators frequently encounter challenges such as troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, maintaining consistent product quality, and meeting production deadlines. Operators must stay alert to quickly identify and resolve minor mechanical issues, ensuring minimal downtime. Additionally, they need to follow strict safety and hygiene protocols, often while working in fast-paced environments with repetitive tasks. Strong attention to detail and good communication skills are essential for collaborating with maintenance teams and supervisors when more complex problems arise.

What is the difference between Packaging Machine Operator vs Material Handler?

AspectPackaging Machine OperatorMaterial Handler
Primary RoleOperates packaging machinery to package products efficientlyMoves, loads, and unloads materials and products within a facility
Skills & CertificationsMechanical skills, attention to detail, safety trainingForklift certification, physical stamina, safety awareness
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or production linesWarehouses, distribution centers
Industry UsageFood, pharmaceuticals, consumer goodsLogistics, manufacturing, distribution

While both roles are essential in manufacturing and logistics, Packaging Machine Operators focus on operating and maintaining packaging equipment, ensuring products are properly sealed and labeled. Material Handlers primarily manage the movement and storage of materials within facilities. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path based on skills and interests.

What are popular job titles related to Packaging Machine Operator jobs in Kansas?

For Packaging Machine Operator jobs in Kansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Packaging Machine Operator jobs in Kansas look for?

The top searched job categories for Packaging Machine Operator jobs in Kansas are:

What are popular job titles related to Packaging Machine Operator jobs in KS?

For Packaging Machine Operator jobs in KS, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Packaging Machine Operator job openings in Kansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,069 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Machine Operator - 1st Shift

Smithfield Foods, Inc.

Wichita, KS • On-site

$20.35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

If you are currently employed at Smithfield, please log into Workday and submit your application through the Jobs Hub.
Have a seat at our table. When you join Smithfield, you become part of something special - a company that's sustainably feeding people around the world, producing good food the right way with respect for our people, animals, communities and planet. With opportunities across locations and functions, a culture grounded in our Core Four values - gratitude, communication, respect and accountability - and a strong commitment to learning, collaboration, and innovation, Smithfield offers challenging and rewarding careers where you can grow, contribute and make a real impact. Apply Now!
The Value You'll Bring
As a Machine Operator team member at Smithfield Foods, you'll play a key role in delivering safe, high-quality food by performing essential production tasks and supporting your coworkers. Your reliability, attention to detail, and strong work ethic will help us meet our standards for safety, quality, and teamwork every day.
You'll contribute to a positive work environment, help maintain a safe and efficient production line, and ensure our products reach families across America. Your dedication and willingness to learn will make a real difference-both to your team and to our mission of delivering good food, responsibly.
Your Opportunity
A great job and a great future await you at Smithfield Foods. As the world's largest pork processor and largest hog producer in the United States. We're looking for motivated people who want to join our team and grow lasting and meaningful careers with us.
Our team members receive industry-leading wages and are eligible for great benefits packages:
  • Hourly Competitive Starting Pay - $20.35/hour
  • Comprehensive Health Insurance, Retirement Benefits and More
  • Education benefit available to full and part-time Smithfield team members upon meeting eligibility requirements

What You'll Do
Machine Operators will work with meat cutting/packaging machines and other equipment to process meat products for the consumer. These positions require technical knowledge of computerized equipment. Machine Operator positions are physically demanding and require good hand-eye coordination, and attention to detail. Machine Operators must be able to work their scheduled shift and may be required to work overtime depending on production demands.
Physical Demands & Work Environment
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions.
All applicants must be at least 18 years of age.
Applicants must be willing and able to:
  • Understand and follow oral and written instructions

  • Perform a task requiring continuous/repetitive movement, including grasping, pinching hands, flexing, and extending arms

  • Stand on concrete and/or platforms for up to a 12-hour shift

  • Work around animal blood and/or carcass parts

  • Work with a knife (if trained)

  • Work in cold areas (approximately 20-40 degrees) and/or warm areas (over 100 degrees)

  • Work in an environment that is wet and humid

  • Work while wearing a hard hat, hearing/eye protection, and steel-toed safety shoes

  • Work in a noisy environment using personal protective equipment (PPE)

  • Work with sanitation/cleaning chemicals

  • Work around strong smells/odors

  • Climb/move on ladders, steps, stairways, walkways and platforms

  • Bend, stoop, and twist repetitively over the course of an entire shift

  • Walk long distances

  • May require certification in order to operate various pieces of equipment required for the position

  • This work is physically demanding and can require the use of some or all body parts and muscle groups. Some positions may require repetitive overhead lifting up to 30 lbs, single lifting of heavy objects which can weigh up to 60 lbs, or lifting of objects using mechanical assistance.

  • Additional essential functions may be applicable to specific jobs.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. May perform other duties as assigned.
EEO Information
Smithfield is an equal opportunity employer committed to workplace diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, gender identity, protected veterans status, status as a disabled individual or any other protected group status or non-job characteristic as directed by law.
If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment selection process, please call us at 757-357-1595.