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Packing Machine Operator Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Operator/Assembler - 1st/2nd/3rd shift 6am-2pm/2pm-10pm/10pm-6am M-F - $18-24/hr As an Operator ... Machine operation skills * Line packing experience * Quality checking skills * Experience in the ...

Inspector Packer

Hamel, MN · On-site

$26.47/hr

Flat packing & rework. * Checks level of glue on carton throughout shift and informs Glue Machine Operator/Feeder of any problems. * Assists Glue Machine Operator and Feeder in any way needed to keep ...

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Packing Machine Operator information

See Minnesota salary details

$12

$16

$19

How much do packing machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for packing machine operator in Minnesota is $16.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.05 and $16.97 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the most common challenges faced by Packing Machine Operators in a manufacturing setting?

Packing Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as managing tight production schedules, troubleshooting mechanical issues, and maintaining high accuracy to prevent packaging errors. Adapting to new machinery or updated processes can also require ongoing learning and attention to detail. Working efficiently while adhering to safety protocols and quality standards is essential, and effective communication with maintenance teams and supervisors helps resolve issues quickly and minimize downtime.

What is the difference between Packing Machine Operator vs Packaging Technician?

AspectPacking Machine OperatorPackaging Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; technical training or certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentFactories, production lines, manufacturing plantsManufacturing facilities, quality control labs, packaging departments
Job FocusOperating and maintaining packing machineryDesigning, testing, and improving packaging processes

The main difference is that Packing Machine Operators focus on running and maintaining packing machinery, while Packaging Technicians are involved in designing and improving packaging systems. Both roles require similar certifications and work in manufacturing environments, but their responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

What does a Packing Machine Operator do?

A Packing Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining machines that package products for shipment or sale. They ensure packaging meets quality standards, troubleshoot issues with the equipment, and monitor the packing process for efficiency. Operators also keep records of production and may perform basic maintenance or repairs on the machines. This role is essential in manufacturing, food processing, and various industries to ensure products are safely and efficiently packaged.

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

To thrive as a Packing Machine Operator, you need a good understanding of mechanical operations, attention to detail, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with automated packing machinery, basic computer skills, and safety certifications are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and the ability to follow instructions precisely distinguish top performers in this role. These skills are vital for ensuring efficient production, minimizing downtime, and maintaining safety and quality standards in manufacturing environments.
What are popular job titles related to Packing Machine Operator jobs in Minnesota? For Packing Machine Operator jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What are popular job titles related to Packing Machine Operator jobs in MN? For Packing Machine Operator jobs in MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Packing Machine Operator job openings in Minnesota as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 28% Full Time, 68% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,433 per year, or $16.1 per hour.
Inspector Packer

$26.47/hr

Full-time, Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Graphic Packaging International rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 120 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

75th of 110 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

If you are a GPI employee, please click the Employee Login before applying.
At Graphic Packaging International, we produce the paper cup that held your coffee this morning, the basket that transported those bottles of craft beer you enjoyed last weekend, and the microwave tray that heated your gourmet meal last night. We're one of the largest manufacturers of paperboard and paper-based packaging for some of the world's most recognized brands of food, beverage, foodservice, household, personal care and pet products. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, we are collaborative, diverse, innovative individuals who create inspired packaging while giving back to our communities.
With over 25,000 employees working in more than 130 locations worldwide, we strive to be environmentally responsible in our industry and in the communities where we operate. We are committed to workplace diversity and offer compensation and benefits programs that are among the industry's best to reward the talented people who make our company successful.
If this sounds like something you would like to be a part of, we'd love to hear from you.
A World of Difference. Made Possible.
Inspector Packer - 12 hour shift-7pm-7am - Sunday night - Thursday morning. Every 6 weeks will rotate to 7pm-7am shift - Tuesday night - Saturday morning
**Eligible for $2,000 Hiring Bonus***
(Direct Hire ONLY)
Inspector Packer Wage: Full time - Starting at $23.09 base, Automatic raises every 3 months during your first year, annual raises thereafter - 12 hour Night shift includes an additional $1/hour shift differential. Top rate $26.47.
Inspector Packer - 12 hour shift-7pm-7am - Sunday night - Thursday morning. Every 6 weeks will rotate to 7pm-7am shift - Tuesday night - Saturday morning. Switch every 6 weeks between front half and back half of week, hours do not change (no change from days to nights, nights to days).
Inspector Packer Job Summary:
Remove cartons from machine, inspect, pack cartons, performs quality checks, and completes documentation.
Manufacturing procedures are well established. Production Supervisor readily available as needed.
Inspector Packer Job Duties:
  • Catches and inspects cartons coming off production machine to ensure they are glued and formed properly.
  • Checks for defects by pulling stacks of cartons off machine, dropping stack on table, fanning out the stack and tapping.
  • Packs off product into case and tapes completed box closed per manufacturing specification.
  • Palletizes as needed.
  • Flat packing & rework.
  • Checks level of glue on carton throughout shift and informs Glue Machine Operator/Feeder of any problems.
  • Assists Glue Machine Operator and Feeder in any way needed to keep machine running.
  • Documents QA manufacturing checks and production reporting.
  • Provides relief for breaks as needed.
  • Keeps manufacturing area and production machine clean throughout shift.
  • Responsible for understanding and adhering to all GMP, safety, manufacturing, food safety, AIB, HACCP and food defense procedures (training will be provided).
  • Any other reasonable request from production management.

Inspector Packer Job Specifications:
  • Must be 18 years or older
  • High School diploma or GED preferred
  • Mechanical/technical aptitude
  • Manufacturing or production background preferred but not required
  • Computer skills
  • Ability to work safely
  • Ability to work with others
  • Must be flexible; willing to work other shifts, overtime and weekends
  • Must be able to speak, read and write English.
  • Possess a strong work ethic.

Physical/Mental Requirements
Occasional physical effort (continuous or prolonged standing/ bending, etc.) required. Manufacturing work environment involves constant exposure to adverse conditions such as dust, noise, fumes, weather, poor lighting, or production heavy machinery/equipment.
The above description/summary may be amended, revised, or supplemented as the Company deems necessary in order to maintain safe, efficient, and continuous operation.
Graphic Packaging is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All candidates will be evaluated on the basis of their qualifications for the job in question. We do not base our employment decision on an employee's or applicant's race, color, sex, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, citizenship, handicap, or disability, marital status, veteran status or any other basis prohibited by local, state, or federal law.
GPI's Benefit Program
  • Competitive Pay
  • 401(k) w/employer matching
  • Health & Welfare Benefits
    • Medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage
    • Short and Long-Term Disability
    • Life Insurance
    • Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance
    • Flexible Spending and Health Savings Accounts
  • Various Voluntary benefits
  • Adoption Assistance Program
  • Employee Discount Programs
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Tuition Assistance Program
  • Paid Time Off + 10 paid company holidays each year

Applications accepted on an ongoing basis and there is no deadline.
Graphic Packaging is an equal opportunity employer and abides by all applicable federal, state provincial and local laws with respect to the recruitment and hiring process. We are committed to an inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and hiring process free from discrimination or harassment based upon race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. Should you require an accommodation for a disability, please contact your Human Resources representative or email accommodations@graphicpkg.com.

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