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Packaging Operator Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Packaging Technician

Canandaigua, NY · On-site

$19.96 - $26.90/hr

A Taste of What You'll Do As a Packaging Tech 2, you will play a key role in supporting bottling operations by safely operating production equipment and maintaining a clean, organized, and foodsafe ...

Packaging Technician

Canandaigua, NY · On-site

$19.96 - $26.90/hr

A Taste of What You'll Do As a Packaging Tech 2, you will play a key role in supporting bottling operations by safely operating production equipment and maintaining a clean, organized, and ...

Packaging Technician

Canandaigua, NY · On-site

$19.96 - $26.90/hr

A Taste of What You'll Do As a Packaging Tech 2, you will play a key role in supporting bottling operations by safely operating production equipment and maintaining a clean, organized, and food-safe ...

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Packaging Operator information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$11

$17

$23

How much do packaging operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for packaging operator in Rochester, NY is $17.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $19.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is a Packaging Operator?

A packaging operator, also referred to as a packaging technician, completes the final step of the manufacturing process by packaging finished products for sale or distribution. Packaging operators typically use packaging machines and other equipment to perform their duties and must follow all company rules and regulations, along with industry protocol. As a packaging operator, your duties may include starting up and shutting down machinery, performing routine maintenance of equipment, labeling and inspecting final products, and completing distribution documents. To pursue the career, you typically need a high school education and relevant work experience. Most packaging operators gain this experience through on-the-job training in an entry-level role. Additional qualifications include strong communication skills for understanding technical documentation and processes, attention to detail during quality checks, and manual dexterity for performing mechanical tasks.

What do packaging operators do?

Packaging operators are responsible for assembling, filling, sealing, and labeling products in a manufacturing or warehouse environment. They operate packaging machinery, monitor quality standards, and ensure safety procedures are followed, often working in shifts and requiring attention to detail. Basic technical skills and knowledge of safety protocols are important for this role.

What are some common challenges Packaging Operators face, and how can they be addressed?

Packaging Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent product quality, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and meeting tight production deadlines. These can be addressed by staying attentive to detail, following standard operating procedures, and communicating promptly with maintenance and quality teams. Regular training and proactive equipment checks also help prevent issues and ensure smooth operations, making collaboration and adaptability key to success in this role.

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

To excel as a Packaging Operator, you typically need a high school diploma, strong attention to detail, and experience with production or manufacturing processes. Familiarity with packaging machinery, conveyor systems, and quality control standards is often required, along with basic computer skills for operating equipment interfaces. Strong organizational skills, the ability to work efficiently in a team, and effective communication set top performers apart. These skills are crucial for maintaining product quality, ensuring safety, and meeting production targets in a fast-paced environment.

What does a Packaging Operator do?

A Packaging Operator is responsible for operating and monitoring machinery that packs products for shipment or sale. They ensure packaging processes run smoothly, maintain quality standards, and troubleshoot minor equipment issues. Their duties often include inspecting products, labeling packages, and maintaining a clean work environment. Packaging Operators play a crucial role in ensuring products are safely and efficiently prepared for distribution.

What is the difference between Packaging Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectPackaging OperatorMachine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications in safety or equipment operationHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications in machine operation or safety
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or production facilities, often in food, pharmaceutical, or consumer goods industriesManufacturing plants, operating various types of machinery
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in packaging lines within manufacturing industriesUsed across various industries for operating machinery
Comparison FocusFocuses on packaging processes, quality checks, and line coordinationFocuses on operating specific machinery, troubleshooting, and maintenance

While both roles work in manufacturing environments, Packaging Operators specialize in managing packaging lines, ensuring products are correctly packaged and labeled. Machine Operators have a broader focus on operating and maintaining machinery, which may include packaging equipment. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find roles aligned with their skills and career goals.

How much does a packaging operator earn?

A packaging operator typically earns between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the industry. Entry-level positions may start at the lower end, while experienced operators with certifications can earn higher wages. Overtime and shift differentials can also increase total compensation.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Packaging operators typically do not earn $4,000 per week without specialized experience or overtime. High-paying roles that can reach this level without a degree are rare and often involve skilled trades, sales, or management positions, but most high-earning jobs require experience, certifications, or specific skills rather than formal degrees.

What is the work of a packaging operator?

A packaging operator is responsible for assembling, sealing, and labeling products for shipment, ensuring packaging meets quality and safety standards. They operate packaging machinery, monitor production lines, and perform quality checks, often working in a manufacturing or warehouse environment with attention to safety protocols.
What are popular job titles related to Packaging Operator jobs in Rochester, NY? For Packaging Operator jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Packaging Operator jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Packaging Operator jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Packaging Operator jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Packaging Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Packaging Operator job openings in Rochester, NY as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,849 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Packaging Machine Operator 1 (12 Hours Day - B)

CooperCompanies

West Henrietta, NY • On-site

$15.81 - $17.96/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description


At CooperVision, a division of CooperCompanies, we're driven by a unifying purpose to help people to experience life's beautiful moments. We are connected through our shared values - dedicated, innovative, friendly, partners, and do the right thing. As a leading global manufacturer of contact lenses, we are committed to helping improve the way people see each day. Through our diverse lens portfolio, we tackle the toughest vision challenges - including astigmatism, presbyopia, and childhood myopia. We offer the most complete collection of spherical, toric, and multifocal products available, enabling us to fit 99% of all contact wearers. Learn more at www.coopervision.com.
Job Summary:
Pick silver stock from the ASRS and rack for customer orders for PKG including customer service orders to be shipped. Stage all picked orders sorted with materials on PKG machines according to the run plan. Inventory checks and cycle counts.
Responsibilities
  • ick silver stock from the Automated Storage and retrieval System (ASRS) and rack it to fulfill packaging (PKG) customer orders.
  • Retrieve and verify all materials required for scheduled orders, ensuring accuracy and readiness for production.
  • Sort and stage all orders on designated PKG machines in alignment with the Tableau production run plan.
  • Coordinate with inventory control, production teams and master production scheduler to ensure timely material availability and minimize downtime.
  • Maintain compliance with safety and quality standards including FDA regulations and internal SOP's and WI's.
  • Perform routine checks on material availability, report discrepancies and assist with cycle counting.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives related to material flow, staging efficiency and inventory accuracy.
  • Support PKG operations as needed to include running Packaging machines to ensure production levels.
  • As business needs dictate, works extended hours to complete goals or tasks to include mandatory overtime.
  • All other projects or tasks as assigned.

Travel: Less than 5% as needed
Qualifications
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  • Understanding of SOP's and WI's
  • Knowledge in GPSII, Redzone- OEE, Agile
  • Ability to read and understand highly technical material including production schedules and run plans (e.g., Tableau)
  • Experience with ASRS systems and inventory management software is desirable
  • Effectively communicate to all levels of management and all departments as needed
  • Excellent numerical, verbal and literacy skills
  • Ability to interpret and cascade advanced procedural and regulatory requirements
  • Exhibits good communication skills - verbal, written, and comprehension of the English language
  • Ability to lift up to 50 LBS and stand for extended periods

Work Environment:
Physically demanding and will involve standing for a significant proportion of the shift.
Normal Warehouse Conditions
  • Noisy conditions >75%
  • Dusty conditions >75%
  • Hot or Humid conditions - Exposure to extreme seasonal temperatures >75%
  • Wet conditions NONE
  • Exposure to chemicals or solvents NONE
  • Work near moving mechanical parts 25-50%

Physical Demands
  • Standing >75%
  • Sitting >10%
  • Walking 75-100%
  • Bending - Bend forward at waist to touch object at 6" above floor 50-75%
  • Stooping/Couching 50-75%
  • Kneeling - Kneel on 1 or both knees for critical time period(1min) <25%
  • Squatting - Bend at knees to touch/grasp object 2" above floor level <25%
  • Twisting 25-50%
  • Pushing/Pulling - 20# force <25%
  • Reaching overhead - 48" height, 18" depth >75%
  • Hand/Eye coordination >75%
  • Finger/Wrist dexterity >75%
  • Grasping/Pinching >75%
  • Coupling - Grip with dominant hand - 30# force >75%
  • Hearing >75%
  • Driving: PIT - Power Industrial Trucks >75%
  • Lifting up to 20 lbs >75%
  • Lifting up to 50 lbs NONE
  • Lifting up to 100 lbs NONE

Experience:
  • Lean methodology and knowledge of 5S a plus
  • 1-2 years of experience in material handling, warehouse/PKG operations or manufacturing preferred

Education:
  • High School Diploma or GED required

We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender, gender identity or expression, or veteran status. We are proud to be an equal opportunity workplace.
For U.S. locations that require disclosure of compensation, the starting base pay for this role is between $15.81 and $17.96 per hour and may include cost of living adjustments. The actual base pay includes many factors and is subject to change and modification in the future. This position may also be eligible for other types of compensation and benefits.