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Packaging Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

The Packaging Manager is responsible for leading and developing a team of Packaging Engineers while driving the design, development, and commercialization of packaging solutions across Ferrara ...

Packaging Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$64K - $95K/yr

Reporting to the Packaging Manager, you will identify, develop, and commercialize new, improved, and costreduced packaging initiatives for the meat snacks packaging platform. With a strong focus on ...

Packaging Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$64K - $95K/yr

Reporting to the Packaging Manager, you will identify, develop, and commercialize new, improved, and cost-reduced packaging initiatives for the meat snacks packaging platform. With a strong focus on ...

The Packaging Supervisor, reporting to the Packaging Manager, is responsible for supervising hourly employees and executing production and logistics plans. The Packaging Supervisor is responsible for ...

This role partners closely with the Packaging Manager, Operations, Quality, Manufacturing, and Suppliers to ensure cost-effective, high-quality packaging solutions that meet business requirements and ...

Liaison Package Handler

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Luxer One is looking for a professional, organized and customer-focused individual to provide package management services to luxury apartment buildings in/around the Chicago area. Come join our ...

Liaison Package Handler

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Luxer One is looking for a professional, organized and customer-focused individual to provide package management services to luxury apartment buildings in/around the Chicago area. Come join our ...

Liaison Package Handler

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Luxer One is looking for a professional, organized and customer-focused individual to provide package management services to luxury apartment buildings in/around the Chicago area. Come join our ...

Packaging Engineer

Romeoville, IL · On-site

$135K - $145K/yr

Strong project management and cross-functional collaboration skills Job Summary: Seeking a Packaging Engineer to lead the design, development, testing, and commercialization of innovative packaging ...

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Packaging Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$30.4K

$90.3K

$146.8K

How much do packaging manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for packaging manager in Chicago, IL is $90,312.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,400.00 and $115,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by packaging managers, and how can they be addressed?

Packaging Managers often encounter challenges such as maintaining quality standards while optimizing costs, managing supply chain disruptions, and meeting sustainability goals. To address these, they collaborate closely with procurement, production, and design teams to ensure materials meet both budget and quality requirements. Staying updated on industry trends and adopting new packaging technologies can also help mitigate these challenges. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are essential for balancing competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.

What skills do you need for packaging manager?

A packaging manager needs strong organizational and leadership skills to oversee packaging operations effectively. They should have knowledge of packaging materials, manufacturing processes, and quality control, along with proficiency in using industry software and tools. Good communication and problem-solving abilities are also essential for coordinating teams and ensuring compliance with safety standards.

Is packaging a stable career?

Packaging managers oversee the design, production, and quality control of packaging processes, which are essential in many industries such as food, pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods. The demand for packaging professionals tends to be stable due to ongoing industry needs and the importance of packaging in product safety and branding. Job stability can also depend on industry trends, technological advancements, and the ability to adapt to new packaging materials and regulations.

What is a packaging manager?

As a packaging manager, your job is to supervise packaging operations during your shift. You typically work in a manufacturing facility or warehouse. Your duties include ensuring that the proper packaging materials and products are available, that the equipment gets regular maintenance, and that you maintain an efficient schedule established by your supervisors. Your responsibilities are also to help hire and train new workers on your shift, contribute to budgets and performance reports, and maintain a proper supply of inventory at the facility. You also collaborate with QA workers to ensure there are no issues with packaging.

What does a packaging manager do?

A Packaging Manager oversees the design, development, and implementation of packaging processes for products within a company. They ensure that packaging meets safety, quality, and regulatory standards while optimizing for cost and efficiency. Their responsibilities often include managing a team, coordinating with suppliers, and collaborating with other departments such as production, logistics, and marketing. Packaging Managers play a crucial role in protecting products during transit and enhancing their visual appeal to consumers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a packaging manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Packaging Manager, you need expertise in packaging design, materials science, supply chain management, and often a related bachelor's degree. Familiarity with packaging machinery, CAD software, and knowledge of industry standards or certifications such as ISTA or Six Sigma is typically required. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills set outstanding candidates apart. These competencies ensure efficient, cost-effective, and compliant packaging operations that meet quality and safety standards.

What is the difference between Packaging Manager vs Packaging Supervisor?

AspectPackaging ManagerPackaging Supervisor
ResponsibilitiesOversees entire packaging operations, manages teams, develops strategies, and ensures quality standards.Supervises daily packaging activities, directs staff, and ensures production targets are met.
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in manufacturing, logistics, or related field; experience in packaging roles.High school diploma or equivalent; experience in packaging or manufacturing preferred.
Work EnvironmentOffice setting with production floor oversight; leadership role.Primarily on the production floor supervising staff and processes.
Industry UsageCommonly used in manufacturing, logistics, and supply chain companies.Used in similar industries, often as a frontline supervisory role.

The Packaging Manager focuses on strategic oversight and management of packaging operations, while the Packaging Supervisor handles daily supervision and direct team oversight. Both roles are essential in manufacturing and logistics environments, with the manager having broader responsibilities and the supervisor focusing on immediate production tasks.

What are the most commonly searched types of Packaging jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Packaging jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Packaging Manager jobs in Chicago, IL? For Packaging Manager jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Packaging Manager jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Packaging Manager jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Packaging Manager jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Packaging Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Packaging Manager job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,312 per year, or $43.4 per hour.

$102K - $142K/yr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Ferrara Candy rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

110th of 436 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Work Location: Chicago

Due to the highly interactive and team-based nature of this role, in-person attendance for most of the workweek (i.e., 3 days or more) is essential for: effective communication including during in-person meetings, strong supervision, real-time problem-solving, and participation in cross-functional initiatives.

Want to make an impact?

The Packaging Manager is responsible for leading and developing a team of Packaging Engineers while driving the design, development, and commercialization of packaging solutions across Ferrara's confection and fruit snack portfolio. This role provides strategic and technical leadership to support innovation, sustainability, operational excellence, and continuous improvement initiatives, partnering closely with cross-functional teams to deliver packaging solutions that meet consumer, business, and manufacturing needs.

Ways you will make a difference
  • Lead, coach, and develop a team of Packaging Engineers, fostering a culture of engagement, accountability, and continuous learning.
  • Set team priorities, manage workloads, and provide strategic direction for packaging development and commercialization activities.
  • Oversee the design, testing, qualification, and implementation of primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging solutions.
  • Partner cross-functionally with R&D, Operations, Engineering, Procurement, Marketing, and external suppliers to support new product launches and packaging innovation.
  • Drive packaging innovation, sustainability, and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance product quality, manufacturing efficiency, and consumer experience.
  • Identify and evaluate new packaging technologies, materials, and supplier capabilities to support business objectives.
  • Provide technical expertise and recommendations to leadership and key stakeholders on packaging-related opportunities and challenges.
Skills that will make you successful
  • Strong project management, communication, and cross-functional leadership skills.
  • Experience with SAP, PLM system
  • Proven experience leading, coaching, and developing technical teams
  • Strong knowledge of packaging materials, manufacturing processes, testing methods, and commercialization activities
  • Experience working in a food manufacturing, consumer packaged goods (CPG), or similar fast-paced environment preferred.
Experiences that will support your success
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering,
  • 5+ years of experience in packaging engineering, packaging development, or a related field.
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

The salary range for this role is $102,075 - $142,905 annually.


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