ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Packaging Machine Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Sanderson Pipe Corporation

Machine Operator

Clarksville, TN

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

Machine Operators are responsible for the manufacturing of quality production of PVC Pipe. Machine Operators are responsible for the operation of all machines, troubleshooting machines and hourly ...

Thompson Pipe Group

Machine Operator

Sale Creek, TN · On-site

$17 - $24.73/hr

Machine Operator Job Type: Full-time Pay: $17.00+ DOE 1st Shift Mon-Thurs. 6 am to 4:30 pm. Who We Are Thompson Pipe Group is a privately held family business of engineers, contractors, and ...

StaffQuick

Be Seen First

Machine Operator

Dandridge, TN · On-site

$17/hr

StaffQuick is Hiring Machine Operators in Dandridge, TN! StaffQuick hires for Temporary, Temp-to-Permanent, and Permanent Jobs throughout Illinois, Indiana, and Tennessee. We proudly offer weekly pay ...

Coin Wrap, Inc

Machine Operator

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$20/hr

Machine Operator -- Join the Team That Keeps America's Change Moving ! Position: Machine Operator ... Inspecting, folding, and sealing packaging for finished coin rolls * Performing quality checks to ...

Lyon Metal Roofing, Inc

Machine Operator

Piney Flats, TN · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Job Title: Machine Operator Reports to: Plant Lead About Lyon Metal Roofing: Lyon Metal Roofing is a leading manufacturer of high-quality metal roofing products serving both residential and ...

Lyon Roofing Inc

Machine Operator

Piney Flats, TN · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Job Title: Machine Operator Reports to: Plant Lead About Lyon Metal Roofing: Lyon Metal Roofing is a leading manufacturer of high-quality metal roofing products serving both residential and ...

Lyon Metal Roofing, Inc

Machine Operator

Piney Flats, TN

$15 - $18/hr

Job Title: Machine Operator Reports to: Plant Lead About Lyon Metal Roofing: Lyon Metal Roofing is a leading manufacturer of high-quality metal roofing products serving both residential and ...

Lyon Roofing

Machine Operator

Piney Flats, TN · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Job Title: Machine Operator Reports to: Plant Lead About Lyon Metal Roofing: Lyon Metal Roofing is a leading manufacturer of high-quality metal roofing products serving both residential and ...

Creative Staffing Inc.

Machine Operator

Portland, TN

$20 - $21.75/hr

Job Overview We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Machine Operator to join our dynamic manufacturing team. In this role, you will be responsible for operating a variety of machinery ...

Kelly Services

Machine Operator

Moscow, TN

$18/hr

Operating and maintaining fin press machines for heat exchanger fin production * Setting up, running, inspecting, and troubleshooting the press line to ensure quality and efficiency * Loading and ...

New

Creative Staffing Inc.

Machine Operator

Portland, TN

$20 - $21.75/hr

Job Overview We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Machine Operator to join our dynamic manufacturing team. In this role, you will be responsible for operating a variety of machinery ...

Kelly Services

Machine Operator

Moscow, TN

$18/hr

Operating and maintaining fin press machines for heat exchanger fin production * Setting up, running, inspecting, and troubleshooting the press line to ensure quality and efficiency * Loading and ...

New

Mars, Incorporated

Machine Operator

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Machine Operator- 12 Hour Night Shift Mars Wrigley - TNN Site Chattanooga, TN Machine Operator 12 Hour Night Shift (following a 2-2-3 shift rotation) 8 hour 2nd Shift 3pm-11:30pm *Additional shift ...

Mars

Machine Operator

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Machine Operator- 12 Hour Night Shift Mars Wrigley - TNN Site Chattanooga, TN Machine Operator 12 Hour Night Shift (following a 2-2-3 shift rotation) 8 hour 2nd Shift 3pm-11:30pm *Additional shift ...

Aerotek

Machine Operator

Gallatin, TN

$23 - $24/hr

Job Title: Entry-Level Machine Operator STARTING ASAP This Entry-Level Machine Operator position offers an opportunity to develop hands-on experience in a modern manufacturing environment. You will ...

New

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsPackaging Machine Operator JobsPackaging Machine Operator Jobs in Tennessee

Packaging Machine Operator information

See Tennessee salary details

$11

$18

$25

How much do packaging machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for packaging machine operator in Tennessee is $18.14, 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Packaging Machine Operator, and why are they important?

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 does a packaging operator do?

A packaging machine operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and monitoring packaging equipment to ensure products are properly packed and labeled. They inspect machines for proper functioning, troubleshoot issues, and follow safety protocols in a manufacturing or warehouse environment. Basic mechanical skills and attention to detail are important for this role.

How much do packaging operators make in the US?

Packaging machine operators in the US typically earn a median hourly wage of around $15 to $20, which translates to approximately $31,000 to $41,600 annually for full-time work. Wages can vary based on experience, location, and the complexity of the machinery operated, with some operators earning higher pay with specialized skills or certifications.

What is the highest paying machine operator job?

The highest paying machine operator jobs are often found in specialized industries such as aerospace, pharmaceuticals, or electronics manufacturing, where operators may require advanced technical skills or certifications. Senior or lead machine operators with extensive experience, certifications, or operating complex machinery can earn higher wages, sometimes exceeding $25 to $30 per hour or more depending on the industry and location.

Is being a packaging operator hard?

Being a packaging machine operator involves operating and monitoring packaging equipment, which requires attention to detail, manual dexterity, and adherence to safety protocols. The job can be physically demanding and often involves working in fast-paced environments, but it generally does not require advanced education or extensive experience. Training is typically provided on the job to learn specific machinery and safety procedures.

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 Packaging Machine Operators?

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 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 are popular job titles related to Packaging Machine Operator jobs in Tennessee? For Packaging Machine Operator jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Packaging Machine Operator jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Packaging Machine Operator jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Packaging Machine Operator jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Packaging Machine Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Packaging Machine Operator jobs in TN? For Packaging Machine Operator jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Packaging Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Packaging Machine Operator job openings in Tennessee as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 54% Full Time, 42% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,724 per year, or $18.1 per hour.
Machine Operator

Machine Operator

Sanderson Pipe Corporation

Clarksville, TN

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Position: Production Machine Operator
Reports To: Shift Team Lead
Job Summary:
Machine Operators are responsible for the manufacturing of quality production of PVC Pipe. Machine Operators are responsible for the operation of all machines, troubleshooting machines and hourly quality checks and banding pipe.
Job Responsibilities:
  • Maintain a consistent level of production with minimal amount of scrap.
  • Responsible for hourly dimensional checks, measurements and associated paperwork as well as machine readings.
  • Ability to make necessary changes on the extrusion lines to ensure quality pipe without assistance.
  • Lift pipe from Beller table to the pipe cart when required.
  • Stack pipe in the cart.
  • Operate all equipment safely and according to proper procedure.
  • Ability to band all pipe pallets, correctly and according to spec sheets.
  • Ensure that the shift codes and dates are changed and that all print is legible and correct according to specification sheet, including ink color.
  • Assist in product changeovers when necessary.
  • Follow all safety guidelines and company policies
  • Maintain a clean and safe work area.
  • All other duties assigned by Management
Essential Functions:
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
  • Work with a safety mindset
  • Ability to read, write and do mathematical problem solving
  • Ability to use screw drivers, hand tools and tape measures
Education Requirements:
  • High School Diploma or GED (required)
  • 2 years of Manufacturing experience
  • Forklift experience preferred
Physical Requirements:
  • Able to lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to climb ladders, stand for extended periods, bend, stoop, push and pull
  • Maybe required to reach or grip with arms and hands
  • Work in uncontrolled environments hot and cold

Apply