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Packaging Machine Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Packaging Machine information

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$13

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$29

How much do packaging machine jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for packaging machine in Chicago, IL is $20.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.36 and $22.79 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.
Packaging Machine jobs near you
Infographic showing various Packaging Machine job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,817 per year, or $20.6 per hour.
Packaging Machine Operator

Packaging Machine Operator

Ferrara Candy Company

Bellwood, IL • On-site

$25.50/hr

Other

Medical, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Ferrara Candy rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 383 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

Work Location: Bellwood

Position requires the ability to work overtime.  As a result, it may require working varying start times, end times, and weekends dependent on business needs.

**This is a day shift position, hours are 5am-5:15pm.  2 days on, 2 days off, every other weekend (Sat, Sun, Mon) off)

Want to make an impact?

The packaging machine operator is responsible for set up, operation and maintenance of various machines to ensure continuous, efficient production. The Packaging Machine Operator will operate machines that perform one or more packaging functions including but not limited to filling, labeling, packing, or wrapping containers. 

Ways you will make a difference
  • Lead packaging machine set up and changeover for production runs 
  • Follow work instruction, standards and SOP's for equipment set up and changeover
  • Identify and resolve issues during set up and changeover
  • Ensure packaging material, including but not limited to film, cartons, boxes and labeling meetsspecifications and quality standards; replenish packaging supplies as needed
  • Feed product to conveyors, hoppers, scales, or other feeding devices
  • Operate packaging equipment, including troubleshooting and making adjustments inaccordance with established work standards; operate touch screen to program code date, product weight and other relevant product data
  • Conduct detailed quality checks at regular intervals; inspect filled containers to ensure product is packaged according to specifications 
Skills that will make you successful
  • Remove rejected product as instructed by metal detector alarm
  • Diagnose and resolve mechanical issues with equipment at the entry maintenance mechaniclevel
  • Follow escalation protocol in a timely manner when troubleshooting efforts fail 
  • Work closely with maintenance when escalation to maintenance support is needed for a mechanical issue
  • Understand and demonstrate the Company's core values and operating principles
  • Adhere to all company policies and procedures, GMP and safety standards
  • Perform other duties as assigned to support Ferrara Candy Company business objectives
  • Assist with operating Hand Power Jack (HPJ) to move finished goods
  • Assist with operator paperwork when needed performing WinSpc 
  • Minimum of 1 year experience operating packaging machinery and/or working in food manufacturing strongly preferred 
  • High school diploma or general education degree (GED); or one to three months' relatedexperience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience 
Experiences that will support your success
  • Basic mathematical skills
  • Basic understanding of equipment capabilities, standards and proper set points including butnot limited to metal detectors, check weights and Ishida scales
  • Ability to pass certification test on pallet jack and fork lift
  • Ability to walk or stand for prolonged periods; ability to bend, stoop, reach and lift up to 50pounds
  • Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing; ability to carry out detailed writtenand/or oral instructions
  • Promote teamwork; possess a good attitude, and exhibit flexibility and willingness to perform tasks as needed
  • Ability to problem solve by adjusting variables in standardized situations
What We Offer

At Ferrara, we're proud to support our employees with comprehensive benefits that enhance health, financial wellness, and include paid time off (PTO).  Eligible employees may also receive an annual bonus based on company performance. Learn more about our benefits at https://flimp.live/Ferrara-Benefits-Resource-Center

Compensation

$25.50 per hour

What Ferrara Candy employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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