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Packaging Machine Operator Jobs in North Carolina

Accent Family of Companies

Machine Operator

Rural Hall, NC · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

We also offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes 100% company paid employee Medical ... The Machine Operator will operate plant machinery and safely perform a wide range of tasks ...

Lancesoft INC

Machine Operator

Mebane, NC · On-site

$19.50 - $21/hr

Machine Operator 2nd or 3rd Shift Location: Mebane, NC 27302 Pay Rate: $19.50/hr. - $21/hr. on W2 ... Package kits and maintain a clean work area * Clear basic machine faults and make minor adjustments

The Steel Network

Machine Operator

Durham, NC

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Machine Operator ID: 2104 Location: Durham, NC Department: Operations More about this job ... Ensuring the proper packaging and labeling of products. * Maintaining acceptable production levels ...

Tree Brand Packaging, Inc

Be Seen First

Setup and Machine Operator

Newton, NC · On-site

$45K - $50K/yr

The Setup & Machine Operator (SMO) is responsible for safely operating, setting up, monitoring, and ... Duties and Responsibilities: 1. Operate pallet manufacturing and wood packaging machinery safely ...

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All JobsPackaging Machine Operator JobsPackaging Machine Operator Jobs in North Carolina

Packaging Machine Operator information

See North Carolina salary details

$11

$18

$25

How much do packaging machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for packaging machine operator in North Carolina is $18.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.29 and $20.10 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 North Carolina?

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

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

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

What cities in North Carolina are hiring for Packaging Machine Operator jobs?

Cities in North Carolina with the most Packaging Machine Operator job openings:

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

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

Packaging Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Packaging Machine Operator job openings in North Carolina as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 48% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,774 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Packaging Machine Operator- Day Shift

Kings Mountain, NC • On-site

Utz Brands, Inc.
Food and Drink Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Utz Brands, Inc.external

$17 - $22.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 27 days ago

Utz Quality Foods rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Utz Quality Foods is expanding and we are looking to grow our loyal, career-driven, and customer-focused team. We are currently recruiting for an experienced Packaging Machine Operator to join our manufacturing professionals at our Kings Mountain, NC facility.
Schedule:
  • Rotating Schedule: Week 1: Monday-Thursday 6:30AM-6:30PM/ Week 2: Monday-Wednesday 6:30AM-6:30PM (Schedule repeats weekly)

Responsibilities:
  • Set up packaging lines correctly and efficiently.
  • Perform daily operator checklists at shift changes and startup.
  • Verify proper operations and calibrate scales on packaging machines.
  • Gather packaging film and ensure proper codes and pricing are printed on packages.
  • Use appropriate formers and adjust temperatures to achieve proper seals on packages.
  • Monitor packaging quality hourly, checking:
    • Item weight
    • Package seals
    • Codes and pricing
  • Record film usage and calculate film waste percentages.
  • Collaborate with team members in a harmonious and supportive environment.
  • Communicate with incoming shift operators about any difficulties or improvements.
  • Maintain efficient operations on all lines and report any conditions that could lead to product contamination.
  • Assist the Maintenance Department with packaging machine repairs when necessary.
  • Train new operators as needed.
  • Maintain an organized, sanitary work environment and complete sanitation tasks as directed.
  • Complete bag percentage reports, production records, and correct scanning errors.
  • Perform quality and food safety tasks associated with the role.

Requirements:
  • Requires basic reading, writing and math skills.
  • Requires knowledge of all packaging machine equipment and machines used in the Packaging Department.
  • Requires the willingness to obtain a forklift license.
  • Able to lift a minimum 50 lbs.
  • Basic computer skills to enter component usage.
  • Requires team skills when working and communicating with others.
  • Ability read, speak, and understand English instruction

External Recruitment Process
  • Easy Application (5 mins): Introduce yourself and answer a few key questions to get started.
  • Engaging Chat Interview (20-25 mins): Share your experiences in an online chat, highlighting how your values align with ours.
  • Live Interview: Selected candidates will meet with the hiring manager to explore their alignment with the team and overall Utz company culture.

Continuously Pursuing Excellence!
Here at Utz, we have a passion for exciting and delighting consumers with delicious snack foods made from high quality ingredients. After over a century with a strong family heritage, our diverse portfolio of brands includes Utz, Zapp's, Boulder Canyon, and On the Border. Our associates are the reason for the success of this company, so it is important we provide a supportive, caring and inclusive environment that offers opportunities for career growth and advancement. We also help take care of our associates by providing benefits, resources, and programs that ensure they live their healthiest lives. Our full-time benefit package includes medical, dental, and vision plans, an employer match 401k, profit sharing plan, employee stock purchase plan and much more. Join our world class team and help us become the fastest growing pure-play U.S. snacking company of scale!
Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

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