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Packaging Machine Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

The work can include operating older-style production machines, packaging products, packing cups, shrink wrapping, and preparing different sizes of cardboard boxes for production and shipping.

The work can include operating older-style production machines, packaging products, packing cups, shrink wrapping, and preparing different sizes of cardboard boxes for production and shipping.

Machine Operator Location: Sandston, VA Pay Rate: $16.00 per hour Schedule: 12-Hour Shifts * Day ... Assemble cartons and package finished products according to company procedures. * Label cartons ...

Machine Operator Location: Sandston, VA Pay Rate: $16.00 per hour Schedule: 12-Hour Shifts * Day ... Assemble cartons and package finished products according to company procedures. * Label cartons ...

Machine Operator

South Boston, VA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

... machine at required specifications Handle packaging, palletizing, and quality inspections ... operator or manufacturing experience High School Diploma or GED Ability to stand and sit for up to ...

Machine Operator

Henrico, VA · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

... packaging, and other production-related tasks as needed. * Collaborate with team members to improve ... Machine operators * CNC operators * General laborers with mechanical aptitude * Assembly workers

Machine Operator

Waynesboro, VA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Machine Operator Summary AHI, a member of the Baillie Group, is hiring a machine operator for their Waynesboro, VA surfacing location. This is a full time opportunity working for a world class ...

Machine Operator

Amissville, VA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Machine Operator Summary AHI, a member of the Baillie Group, is hiring a machine operator for their Amissville, VA location. This is a full time opportunity working for a world class hardwood ...

... packaging, and other production-related tasks as needed. * Collaborate with team members to improve ... Machine operators * CNC operators * General laborers with mechanical aptitude * Assembly workers

Machine Operator

Winchester, VA

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Richardson provides an excellent compensation package consisting of a competitive salary, flexible ... The Machine Operator is responsible for running high-speed automated packaging equipment and ...

Machine Operator

Newport News, VA

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Machine Operator - Filler The Machine Operator - Filler is responsible for operating and monitoring ... Attention to Detail Ensures packaging accuracy, proper labeling, lot coding, and quality standards ...

Machine Operator

Newport News, VA

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Machine Operator - Filler The Machine Operator - Filler is responsible for operating and monitoring ... Attention to Detail Ensures packaging accuracy, proper labeling, lot coding, and quality standards ...

Machine Operator

Virginia Beach, VA

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Machine Operator We are seeking a motivated and reliable Machine Operator to join our team at Primero Staffing. As a Machine Operator, you will play a key role in the efficient operation of our ...

Machine Operator

Richmond, VA · On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

Machine Operator We are seeking a motivated and reliable Machine Operator to join our team at Primero Staffing. As a Machine Operator, you will play a key role in the efficient operation of our ...

Machine Operator

Newport News, VA · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Machine Operator - Filler The Machine Operator - Filler is responsible for operating and monitoring ... Identifies and reports potential risks proactively.  Attention to Detail Ensures packaging ...

Operating machines that manufacture credit cards and packaging envelopes into boxes * Ensuring proper labeling and organization of outgoing shipments * Collaborating with logistics teams to support ...

Machine Operator

Newport News, VA

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Machine Operator - Filler The Machine Operator - Filler is responsible for operating and monitoring ... Identifies and reports potential risks proactively.  Attention to Detail Ensures packaging ...

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Packaging Machine Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$12

$19

$28

How much do packaging machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for packaging machine operator in Virginia is $19.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.68 and $21.92 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 Virginia?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Packaging Machine Operator job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,208 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Packaging Machine Operator (P.M.O.) - Lines 400/405

Stuarts Draft, VA • On-site


McKee Foods
Food and Drink Manufacturing • 5 - 10K employees

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

126th of 443 rated food and drinks producers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Paid breaks


$25.21 - $26.49/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Join America's favorite family bakery since 1934-home of Little Debbie, Drake's Cakes, and Sunbelt Bakery Granola Bars. Work with legacy brands that bring smiles to faces nationwide, including yours. You'll experience a culture committed to work-life balance, guaranteed time off, and supportive health and wellness offerings. Enjoy profit sharing, long-term job security, and a range of exciting career paths. When you join McKee Foods, you'll discover a better way to live and work.

Pay

$25.21 - $26.49 / hour, depending on experience and qualifications
Plus $2.00 / hr shift premium for 3rd Shift hours

Schedule

3rd Shift (Sunday - Thursday, 10:20 p.m. - 6:30 a.m.)

Onsite; other days and hours as needed

May be asked to train on 1st Shift

The primary function of the Line 405 Seasonal Crew (3rd Shift) is to support the Line 400 Unassigned Crew in producing Little Debbie Cosmic products to meet our peak seasonal demand.

We understand you may wonder what happens after the holidays. Please be assured that these are not temporary holiday-only positions. Once seasonal demand normalizes, team members in these roles will transition back to their Line 400 Unassigned Crew positions, supporting production needs across the facility based on operational demand. This may include assignment to different production lines. Team members in these roles will also be eligible to apply for regular openings as they arise.

Location

272 Patton Farm Road Stuarts Draft, Virginia 24477

Job Summary

  • Set-up, adjust, and maintain packaging equipment for production run
  • Perform required changeovers for product, code or packaging
  • Enter OPM11i data timely and accurately
  • Troubleshoot and make necessary adjustments to packaging equipment
  • Disassemble/assemble and clean equipment in the entire business unit for a full shift or more
  • Perform other duties including higher level jobs in the entire business unit as needed

Required Qualifications

  • Overall good work record (which includes attendance, safety, job performance, flexibility, and team behaviors)
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently and in a cohesive team environment
  • Demonstrated mechanical aptitude
  • Basic math skills
  • Accurate measurement and conversion skills
  • Ability to perform moderate to heavy lifting
  • Demonstrated ability to promote continuous process improvement and LEAN principles
  • Attention to detail
  • Successfully complete PMO training and pass technical competencies

Preferred Qualifications

  • Previous machine operator experience (plastic film or wrap)
  • Excellent mechanical skills and/or previous technical training
  • Set-up, changeover, and troubleshooting ability

Benefits

  • Competitive weekly pay
  • Profit-sharing cash bonus program
  • 401(k) with matching contributions
  • Paid Time Off (for vacation, holidays, sick time, personal time, etc.)
  • Medical insurance, including health, dental, vision and prescription drug plan
  • Supplemental plans, including life insurance
  • Fully-paid parental leave
  • Health Center and Pharmacy
  • Mental wellness counseling (on-site in TN, virtual elsewhere)
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Credit Union
  • Exercise and recreation facility
  • Wellness programs with incentives
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Short-term and long-term disability (company-paid)

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer



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