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Packaging Operator Jobs in Salem, OR (NOW HIRING)

Yamasa Corporation USA

Packaging Machine Operator

Salem, OR · On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Packaging Machine Operator - Join a 380-Year Tradition of Craftsmanship at YAMASA At YAMASA, crafting authentic foods & ingredients isn't just what we do--it's who we are. Since 1645, every detail ...

Highland Laboratories

Packaging Machine Operator

Mount Angel, OR · On-site

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

Contributes to the efficient operation of the Packaging Department by providing beginning through intermediate skill level in operating and monitoring packaging machines, resulting in the manufacture ...

New

Highland Laboratories

Packaging Machine Operator

Mount Angel, OR · On-site

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

Contributes to the efficient operation of the Packaging Department by providing beginning through intermediate skill level in operating and monitoring packaging machines, resulting in the manufacture ...

New

UFP Industries, Inc

Forklift Operator/Packager

Woodburn, OR · On-site

$17.50 - $20.75/hr

Job Summary Forklift Operator I is responsible for the movement of material from inventory to production and back to inventory. Maintains correct paperwork and production records as required.

Meduri Farms Inc

Lead - Day Packaging

Dallas, OR · On-site

$18/hr

Packaging Lead Supervisor / Packaging Manager Responsibility: Production Personnel/Production ... The person in this position will also be responsible to assist Filler Operators in the accurate ...

GLISS

Be Seen First

Machine Operator

Mcminnville, OR · On-site

$21.25 - $23.75/hr

Food Production Machine Operator Pay: Day Shift $21.25/hour Night Shift $23.75/hour Schedule: 3 - 4 ... packaged correctly. - Continuous survey of the production process, making sure all is running ...

GRIFFIN BROS INC

Packager

Albany, OR · On-site

$20/hr

Operate packaging equipment, filling machines, labeling machines, and sealing equipment according ... Ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and safety protocols. Working Conditions

Reser's Fine Foods

Packager

Salem, OR · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

... packaging boxes and containers. 2. Ensures product date and weight are within established ... Family owned and operated, Reser's has been a proud sponsor of good times at racetracks, picnics ...

Reser's

Packager

Salem, OR · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

... packaging boxes and containers. 2. Ensures product date and weight are within established ... Family owned and operated, Reser's has been a proud sponsor of good times at racetracks, picnics ...

Reser's

Packager

Salem, OR · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

... packaging boxes and containers. 2. Ensures product date and weight are within established ... Family owned and operated, Reser's has been a proud sponsor of good times at racetracks, picnics ...

ENTEK

Production Operator

Lebanon, OR · On-site

$22.10/hr

Responsible for the proper packaging of the final product and transporting the product to the packaging line. Pelletizer Operating, monitoring, and efficiently pelletizing recyclable material made ...

TradeJobsWorkforce

Forklift Operator

Dallas, OR · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Step into a new opportunity as a Forklift Operator, where you will work with supervisors to meet ... packaging, labeling, and preparing items for delivery, handle orders, shipments, and basic ...

Custom Building Products

Batch Operator

Aurora, OR · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

The Batch Operator is responsible for accurately mixing chemicals, preparing equipment, and ... with packaging and material handling as needed to support production flow * Follow all safety ...

Custom Building Products

Batch Operator

Aurora, OR · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

The Batch Operator is responsible for accurately mixing chemicals, preparing equipment, and ... with packaging and material handling as needed to support production flow * Follow all safety ...

Custom Building Products

Batch Operator

Aurora, OR · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

The Batch Operator is responsible for accurately mixing chemicals, preparing equipment, and ... with packaging and material handling as needed to support production flow * Follow all safety ...

Ingredion Incorporated

Operator 1

Salem, OR · On-site

$17.75 - $21.75/hr

Processing Operator The Process Operator will be responsible for the manufacturing and handling of ... Benefits: Full-time roles are eligible for our comprehensive benefits package which includes ...

National Starch and Chemical

Operator 1

Salem, OR

$17.75 - $21.75/hr

Processing Operator The Process Operator will be responsible for the manufacturing and handling of ... Benefits: Full-time roles are eligible for our comprehensive benefits package which includes ...

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All JobsPackaging Operator JobsPackaging Operator Jobs in Salem, OR

Packaging Operator information

See Salem, OR salary details

$12

$18

$23

How much do packaging operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for packaging operator in Salem, OR is $18.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.44 and $19.81 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 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 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 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 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 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 overall compensation.
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Cities near Salem, OR with the most Packaging Operator job openings:

Packaging Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Packaging Operator job openings in Salem, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,268 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Packaging Machine Operator

Yamasa Corporation USA

Salem, OR • On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Packaging Machine Operator – Join a 380-Year Tradition of Craftsmanship at YAMASA

At YAMASA, crafting authentic foods & ingredients isn’t just what we do—it’s who we are. Since 1645, every detail has mattered: our ingredients, our process, our people, our place, and our products. And since bringing our Japanese craftsmanship to the USA in 1994, our Salem team continues that legacy with pride, precision, & passion.

Now, we’re looking for experienced Packaging Machine Operators to help keep that tradition alive—on Swing Shift (3:00 PM–11:30 PM) and Graveyard Shift (11:00 PM - 7:30 AM). If you’ve got hands-on experience in food processing, love the rhythm of welltuned machinery, and don’t mind getting your steps in (up to 12 hours of standing!), this may be your perfect next role.

What You’ll Do (Your Craftsmanship in Action)

  • Perform process area sanitation
  • Prepare the process area for startup: products, packaging materials, equipment adjustment, palletizing—every detail counts
  • Operate semiautomated portion pack filling equipment & all other filling machinery
  • Place filled containers into shipping cartons, palletize, and stage for warehouse transfer
  • Monitor filling equipment, adjusting keep things running smoothly
  • Inspect filled containers & cartons for compliance with YAMASA standards and state/federal regulations
  • Initiate equipment adjustments & changeovers as needed
  • Maintain strict confidentiality regarding company matters

What You Bring (Skills & Abilities)

You must be able to:

  • Be knowledgeable, able, & willing to be Oregon State Certified for Acidified Food Handler
  • Complete the Filler Operating Instruction Course provided by YAMASA
  • Read & comprehend instructions & manuals; write & verbally communicate reports in English
  • Work in a sanitary food manufacturing environment safely
  • Handle exposure to commonly used cleaning agents
  • Demonstrate strong manual dexterity
  • Work flexible shift times
  • Work independently without extensive supervision
  • Perform math calculations including fractions
  • Work in closed quarters or at heights
  • Push and pull up to 75 lbs using heavy producthandling equipment
  • Lift 60–80 lbs repeatedly
  • Tolerate exposure to odors & product smells
  • Stand for up to 12 hours per day
  • Tolerate heat, cold, dust, high humidity, & various indoor conditions
  • Move freely to perform assigned duties
  • Work effectively in a multicultural, multilingual environment
  • Handle fastpaced, repetitive tasks
  • Use personal protective equipment including hair nets, beard nets, ear protection, safety glasses, & gloves

Education & Experience

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • At least two years of related experience

Additional Requirements

  • Must pass preemployment background check and drug screen

Why YAMASA?

Because here, you’re not just operating a machine—you’re contributing to centuries of tradition. You’re helping craft products that honor precision, quality, and culture. And you’re doing it as part of a supportive, diverse team that takes pride in every drop, pack, and pallet.

If that sounds like your kind of workplace, we’d love to hear from you.

Join us. Craft excellence. Carry on a legacy.

We participate in E-Verify

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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