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Packaging Machine Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Job Overview The Packaging Machine Operator is primarily responsible for operating an automated packing machine to prepare products for shipping. Ensures machinery is set up, works properly, and ...

Perform machine setup and adjustments to ensure efficient operation * Monitor production processes ... Label, package, and prepare finished products for shipment * Maintain a clean and safe workspace in ...

Perform machine setup and adjustments to ensure efficient operation * Monitor production processes ... Label, package, and prepare finished products for shipment * Maintain a clean and safe workspace in ...

Technical Competence: • Solid understanding of packaging machine components and mechanical systems. • Ability to interpret and validate technical drawings; CAD experience (AutoCAD, SolidWorks) is ...

CA · On-site

$18 - $21.50/hr

Tends Pacman/Hayssen machines that perform one or more packaging functions such as filling, marking, labeling, banding, tying, packing, or wrapping containers by performing the following duties.

Packaging Operator Crescent City

Crescent City, CA · On-site

$19.75 - $23.75/hr

Operates and monitors block-forming tower sequencing through HMIs, metal detectors, a vacuum-sealing packaging machine, a case wrapper, a weight scale, and label application to ensure product quality ...

Packaging Operator Crescent City

Crescent City, CA · On-site

$19.75 - $23.75/hr

Operates and monitors block-forming tower sequencing through HMIs, metal detectors, a vacuum-sealing packaging machine, a case wrapper, a weight scale, and label application to ensure product quality ...

MACHINE OPERATOR I

Atwater, CA · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

The packaging Machine Operator position sets up and operates a production machine in accordance with established procedures and guidelines. This position also adjusts machine settings to complete ...

Packing Associate

Vernon, CA · On-site

$16.90/hr

May be assigned to a variety of tasks including but not limited to: guiding small food trays into slots on packaging machine, manually packing product in bags, unloading and feeding product into a ...

If working a packaging line, ensure products are dated and packaged with a minimum amount of waste ... Perform necessary tests for machinery when required * Take samples when required * Perform basic ...

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Packaging Machine information

See California salary details

$12

$19

$27

How much do packaging machine jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for packaging machine in California is $19.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $21.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do you need to be a packaging technician?

To become a packaging technician, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic mechanical skills, and familiarity with packaging machinery. Some employers may require certification or training in equipment operation and safety procedures. Physical stamina and attention to detail are also important for this role.

What are some common challenges faced by Packaging Machine Operators, and how can they be addressed?

Packaging Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as machine malfunctions, maintaining product quality, and meeting production deadlines. To address these, operators should be proactive with routine maintenance, quickly troubleshoot minor mechanical issues, and adhere to safety and quality protocols. Effective communication with maintenance teams and supervisors is also essential for minimizing downtime and ensuring smooth workflow. Continuous learning and staying updated on new equipment or processes can further enhance efficiency and job satisfaction.

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 often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with automated packaging machinery, basic troubleshooting tools, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong teamwork, reliability, and effective communication help operators quickly resolve issues and maintain productivity. These skills ensure efficient, safe operation of packaging lines and consistent product quality in manufacturing environments.

What is the difference between Packaging Machine vs Packaging Operator?

AspectPackaging MachinePackaging Operator
CredentialsTechnical training or certification in machinery operationHigh school diploma; on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or production lineProduction floor, operating packaging equipment
Job RoleSet up, monitor, and troubleshoot packaging machineryOperate and oversee packaging processes

The Packaging Machine role focuses on maintaining and troubleshooting the machinery itself, requiring technical skills. In contrast, the Packaging Operator primarily manages the packaging process, ensuring products are correctly packaged. Both roles are essential in manufacturing, often working together to ensure efficient production and quality control.

What are packaging machine operators?

Packaging machine operators are workers responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining machines that prepare and package products for shipment or sale. They ensure that packaging equipment runs smoothly, monitor the quality of packaging, and troubleshoot any issues that arise during the process. Their duties may also include cleaning and adjusting machinery, inspecting packaged goods, and following safety and quality guidelines. Packaging machine operators often work in manufacturing, food processing, or logistics industries.

Is being a packaging operator hard?

Being a packaging operator involves operating machinery, monitoring production lines, and ensuring quality standards, which can require physical stamina and attention to detail. The job often involves repetitive tasks and working in a fast-paced environment, but with proper training and safety protocols, it is manageable for many workers.

What is the highest paying machine operator job?

The highest paying machine operator jobs are often in specialized industries such as aerospace, pharmaceuticals, or manufacturing of complex machinery, where operators may earn higher wages due to technical skills and certifications. Roles involving CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines or automation systems tend to offer higher salaries compared to standard packaging machine operators. Advanced skills, experience, and certifications can significantly increase earning potential in this field.

How much do packaging operators make in the US?

Packaging machine operators in the US typically earn a median hourly wage of around $14 to $18, which translates to approximately $29,000 to $37,000 annually for full-time work. Wages can vary based on experience, location, and the complexity of the equipment operated, with some operators earning higher pay with certifications or specialized skills.
Infographic showing various Packaging Machine job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,020 per year, or $19.7 per hour.
Production Machine Operator

Production Machine Operator

Workforce Enterprises

City Of Industry, CA • On-site

$20/hr

Temporary

Medical

Posted 5 days ago

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Job description

Job description:

Job Overview
The Packaging Machine Operator is primarily responsible for operating an automated packing machine to prepare products for shipping. Ensures machinery is set up, works properly, and conforms with (and can produce materials that conform with) company quality, quantity, and efficiency standards. This role is responsible for operating form-fill packaging equipment, ensuring accurate and efficient product filling, and performing manual packing tasks to support overall production flow.

Responsibilities

  • Frequently (more than 75% of time) required to: stand and/or walk, use ladders and climb stairs, bend and stoop, reach, push/pull, kneel and crouch. Lift, carry and/or move items up to 50 pounds, without assistance; use hands to finger, handle, or touch objects, tools, or controls, to verbally communicate; and to hear. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.
  • Inspects equipment prior to use to ensure proper setup and alignment; performs basic and routine adjustments and maintenance.
  • Sets up and operates package machine according to instructions, specifications, and standards provided.
  • Sets and adjusts necessary controls to regulate machines output, clears jams, and performs basic machine troubleshooting.
  • Receives and reads daily production and schedules customer orders and retrieves required packaging materials to production area.
  • Maintains a clean and safe work area, disposing of excess materials.
  • Meets daily production requirements.
  • Performs periodic quality control checks to ensure the product is packaged according to customer requirements (including checking end and back seals and date codes).
  • Changes product variety, follows pre-set guidelines and changes out filtering screens based on product variety/size. Sets, adjusts, and periodically checks the flow of product through a foreign materials machine—checks magnet for any foreign materials and documents and reports as required.
  • Accurately completes and maintains required documentation on the product, materials/supplies, output, and machine downtime.
  • Communicates with management and maintenance personnel on a timely basis to facilitate maintenance and repairs.
  • Maintains a clean, safe, and orderly work area.
  • Complies with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Safe Quality Food (SQF) procedures, and safety policies, including timely and accurate documentation of required SQF forms.
  • Other duties as assigned by management.

Qualifications

  • Prior experience operating form-fill or similar packaging machinery in a food manufacturing environment.

Schedule

  • Monday - Friday, 5am -1:30pm

Job Type: Full-time

Work Location: In person


Workforce Enterprises logo

About Workforce Enterprises

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At WORKFORCE Enterprises, temporary and contract staffing is what we do. As one of the leading staffing agencies, we have provided employers with the finest administrative, technical and professional temporary employees since 2011. And have helped talented people find rewarding temporary employment and great career opportunities.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Diamond Bar, CA, US

Year founded

2012

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