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Packaging Machine Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The Packaging I is responsible for: can-filling machinery, bottle-filling machinery, boxing machinery, pallet wrapping machinery, and other general packaging operations. They work as a valuable team ...

Packaging Technician

Camarillo, CA · On-site

$18.25/hr

Starts, adjusts, and repairs packaging machinery, or notifies maintenance department. * Visually inspects product, bags, and labels finished filter packages. * Prepares product for shipping and ...

$18.25/hr

Starts, adjusts, and repairs packaging machinery, or notifies maintenance department. * Visually inspects product, bags, and labels finished filter packages. * Prepares product for shipping and ...

Be Seen First

The Packaging Machinery Field Service Technician at CVC Technologies supports customers primarily ... Such as capsules and tablets counting machine, liquid filling machine, powder filling machine ...

Training provided

Be Seen First

The Packaging Machinery Field Service Technician at CVC Technologies supports customers primarily ... Such as capsules and tablets counting machine, liquid filling machine, powder filling machine ...

Training provided

Strong knowledge of packaging machinery, automation, and production flow. * Experience with lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies is a plus. * Proficientin ...

Strong knowledge of packaging machinery, automation, and production flow. * Experience with lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies is a plus. * Proficient in ...

Packaging Operator(s)

Chula Vista, CA · On-site

$18.75 - $19.50/hr

May manually operate all phases of packaging in the case of machinery failure/maintenance. * Embrace continuous improvement. * Housekeeping: maintain general housekeeping in all areas of production ...

Packaging Operator(s)

Chula Vista, CA · On-site

$18.75 - $19.50/hr

May manually operate all phases of packaging in the case of machinery failure/maintenance. * Embrace continuous improvement. * Housekeeping: maintain general housekeeping in all areas of production ...

Machine Operator (Packing)

Torrance, CA

$17.75 - $21.25/hr

Constantly feed raw material (film or cartons) into packaging machinery throughout shift.Continually monitor machine operation to ensure accurate product measurements are maintained.Communicate ...

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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.
OVERNIGHT PACKAGING TECH - CUTWATER

OVERNIGHT PACKAGING TECH - CUTWATER

AB InBev

San Diego, CA

$23.05/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

Dreaming big is in our DNA. It's who we are as a company. It's our culture. It's our heritage. And more than ever, it's our future. A future where we're always looking forward. Always serving up new ways to meet life's moments. A future where we keep dreaming bigger. We look for people with passion, talent, and curiosity, and provide them with the teammates, resources and opportunities to unleash their full potential. The power we create together - when we combine your strengths with ours - is unstoppable. Are you ready to join a team that dreams as big as you do?

SHIFT: Full Time, Monday-Friday, 9pm-5:30am (5/8's)

SALARY:$23.05/hr, plus $4/hr overnight shift differential

WORK LOCATION:San Diego, CA (Miramar)

COMPANY:

At Cutwater Spirits, we are explorers, charting the course with adventure in mind. We meticulously distill our award-winning portfolio of spirits including whiskeys, vodka, gin, rums, tequilas and liqueurs and incorporate them into our canned lineup. We believe our people are our greatest asset, and we're looking for passionate people like you to join our journey of working hard while having fun. Are you ready to join our dauntless crew here in San Diego and beyond?

ROLE SUMMARY:

ThePackagingIis the entry levelintothe packaging team. Theywork on packaging lines tocompletesvarious tasks necessary toship finished products from Cutwater Spirits.ThePackagingIisresponsible for: can-filling machinery, bottle-filling machinery, boxing machinery,pallet wrappingmachinery, and other generalpackagingoperations. Theywork as a valuable team member, and theposition'sfocus is onmaintainingconsistency and timeliness within thepackagingfunction-allwhilemaintaininghighquality.This position worksunder thedirection oftheOperationsSupervisor.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Work on packaging lines (canning and bottling).
  • Use a forklift to move materials and finished products.
  • Unload packaging materials from pallets.
  • Load finished products onto pallets.
  • Maintain cleanliness of the distillery warehouse.
  • FollowsSOPs to ensure that products are packagedconsistently.
  • Works closely with theOperationsManager toensure smooth operation of packaging machinery and equipment.
  • Performs daily start-up and clean-up procedures on all assigned packaging stations.
  • Works with maintenance employees/personnel toassistwith equipment problems and troubleshooting.
  • Performs daily basic maintenance for machinery.
  • Assistsinthepackagingrecords management.
  • Works to achieve packaging/distribution short and long-term goals and metrics.
  • Adheres to all safety precautions,rulesand guidelines.
  • May stack and palletize finished product and prepare storage.
  • May manuallyoperateall phases of packaging in the case of machinery failure/maintenance.
  • Embraces and fulfills the core values and culture of Cutwater Spirits.
  • Other duties as assigned.
  • Understands and employs a Safety-First approach.
  • Ability tomaintaina Food Handler's Certification.
  • Detail oriented and ability to multi-task.
  • Ability to work independently as well asstrong teamorientation and ability to work with diversegroupof individuals.
  • Technical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
  • Scheduling flexibility--ability to work a variety of shifts and availability on weekendsand nights/overnights.
  • Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
  • Understands and employs a Safety-First approach.
  • Ability tomaintaina Food Handler's Certification.
  • Detail oriented and ability to multi-task.
  • Ability to work independently as well asstrong teamorientation and ability to work with
  • diversegroupof individuals.
  • Technical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
  • Scheduling flexibility--ability to work a variety of shifts and availability on weekends and
  • nights/overnights.
  • Ability to follow oral and written instructions.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Priorfood/beveragepackagingexperience(preferred).
  • Prior forklift experience (preferred).
  • High School Diploma or equivalentrequired.
  • Must be 21 years of age andmaintainsafedriving record.

BENEFITS:

  • Health benefits including Medical, Dental, Vision, Wellness and Tax-Advantaged Savings and Spending Accounts.
  • Life Insurance and Disability Income Protection.
  • Generous Parental Leave and FMLA policies.
  • 401(k) Retirement Savings options with a company matching contribution.
  • Chance to work in a fast-paced environment among a company of owners.
  • Great Perks including product samples!