ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Packing Machine Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

H.B. Fuller

Machine Operator

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$20.53/hr

The Machine Operator reports to the Production Manager/Supervisor. The job holder has the ... unloading, packing & labeling), in compliance with legal and company rules. Primary ...

Amcor plc

Machine Operator AM & PM

Itasca, IL · On-site

$20.70/hr

... packing, and hand packing. Operation of molding equipment involves performing short-cycle ... Machine Operator: The starting rate of pay for this position is $20.70. Our Expectations We expect ...

Amcor

Machine Operator AM & PM

Itasca, IL

$20.70/hr

... packing, and hand packing. Operation of molding equipment involves performing short-cycle ... Machine Operator: The starting rate of pay for this position is $20.70. OurExpectations We expect ...

Novolex

Assistant Machine Operator

Saint Charles, IL · On-site

$21.57 - $26.97/hr

Assistant Cup Machine Operator St. Charles, IL Compensation Includes * Pay Range $21.57/hr - $26.97 ... Help cover Packers for breaks as necessary * Knowledge of appropriate lockout/tag out procedures as ...

Novolex

Assistant Machine Operator

Saint Charles, IL · On-site

$21.57 - $26.97/hr

Assistant Cup Machine Operator St. Charles, IL Compensation Includes * Pay Range $21.57/hr - $26.97 ... Help cover Packers for breaks as necessary * Knowledge of appropriate lockout/tag out procedures as ...

Novolex

Assistant Machine Operator

Saint Charles, IL · On-site

$21.57 - $26.97/hr

Assistant Cup Machine Operator St. Charles, IL Compensation Includes * Pay Range $21.57/hr - $26.97 ... Help cover Packers for breaks as necessary * Knowledge of appropriate lockout/tag out procedures as ...

Novolex

Assistant Machine Operator

Saint Charles, IL

$21.57 - $26.97/hr

Assistant Cup Machine Operator St. Charles, IL Compensation Includes * Pay Range $21.57/hr - $26.97 ... Help cover Packers for breaks as necessary * Knowledge of appropriate lockout/tag out procedures as ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPacking Machine Operator JobsPacking Machine Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

Packing Machine Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$13

$16

$20

How much do packing machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for packing machine operator in Chicago, IL is $16.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $17.84 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 Chicago, IL? For Packing Machine Operator jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Packing Machine Operator jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Packing Machine Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Packing Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Packing Machine Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,165 per year, or $16.9 per hour.
Machine Operator I -2nd Shift

Machine Operator I -2nd Shift

John B. Sanfilippo & Son, Inc.

Elgin, IL • On-site

$20.05 - $26.80/hr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

John B. Sanfilippo & Son rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

274th of 380 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

Description
Summary:
The Machine Operator I is responsible for operating, leading, and maintaining packaging machinery-including baggers/fillers, indexers, cappers, case packers/makers, and sealers-and/or a production line. This role ensures equipment runs efficiently and meets all quality and production KPIs with minimal supervision.
Functions Of The Position:
  • Machine Setup & Maintenance Set up machines by loading materials, adjusting dies and films, and configuring settings. Perform mechanical changeovers and monitor machine performance. Troubleshoot issues, report concerns to leadership and assist with repairs to minimize downtime. Conduct weekly or bi-weekly preventive maintenance.
  • Production Compliance Follow work orders, quality control standards, and sanitation procedures related to weights, packaging, product descriptions, dates, UPCs, cleanup, and changeovers.
  • Quality & Waste Control Perform quality checks and monitor material waste to ensure compliance with standards.
  • Team Leadership & Training Direct and instruct line personnel on specific tasks. Train other Level I machine operators.
  • Operational Checks & Documentation (5Conduct pre-operational inspections and complete required documentation before and after production runs.
  • Performance Standards Consistently meet or exceed production, quality, and safety benchmarks.
  • Material Handling & Support Load products into hoppers, stack and pack items, and perform other duties as needed. Train line personnel on job-specific tasks.
  • Machine Cleaning Clean machines thoroughly after production runs or changeovers.
  • Work Area Maintenance Maintain a clean, organized, and audit-ready workspace. Perform tasks such as sweeping, mopping, and equipment cleaning. Carry out additional duties as assigned.

Food Safety & Compliance Responsibilities:
  • Ensure safe and high-quality food production by adhering to current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP), allergen and sanitation controls, food defense/fraud protocols, HACCP/FSMA, SQF, and other regulatory requirements.
  • Maintain and document preventative controls to support food safety and quality.
  • Immediately report any food safety or quality concerns to management.
  • Collaborate with team members to share knowledge and skills across functional areas.
  • Continuously develop technical, functional, professional, and leadership competencies.
  • Comply with all health and workplace safety policies and procedures.
  • Promote a safety-first culture by practicing safe behaviors, reporting hazards, and conducting safety observations as assigned.

JBSS is an Equal Opportunity Employer: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran.

Apply