1

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

Machine Operator- Foods

Manteno, IL ยท On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Machine Operator Join our team as a Machine Operator where you will be responsible for efficiently ... Activities include packing, stacking cases, sweeping, lifting up to 50lbs, loading ingredients, and ...

YOU As a Machine Operator you are responsible for operating the assigned machinery, ensuring it ... packing and labeling equipment performing minor repairs when required. (10%) Inspect and audit ...

Machine Operator

Grant Park, IL ยท On-site

$19.37/hr

Machine Operator| Grant Park, IL|HIRING IMMEDIATELY Starting Pay Rate * $19.37 per hour (+1.00 ... Maintain clean and safe work area. * Assist Packers as needed. * Obtain skills to move through the ...

Machine Operator

Grant Park, IL ยท On-site

$19.37/hr

Machine Operator| Grant Park, IL|HIRING IMMEDIATELY Starting Pay Rate * $19.37 per hour (+1.00 ... Maintain clean and safe work area. * Assist Packers as needed. * Obtain skills to move through the ...

Machine Operator

Grant Park, IL ยท On-site

$19.37/hr

Machine Operator| Grant Park, IL|HIRING IMMEDIATELY Starting Pay Rate * $19.37 per hour (+1.00 ... Maintain clean and safe work area. * Assist Packers as needed. * Obtain skills to move through the ...

Machine Operator| Grant Park, IL|HIRING IMMEDIATELY Starting Pay Rate * $19.37 per hour (+1.00 ... Maintain clean and safe work area. * Assist Packers as needed. * Obtain skills to move through the ...

Machine Operator

Northbrook, IL ยท 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 ...

Job Title: Machine Operator- $28/hr Join our team as a Machine Operator where you will be ... Activities include packing, stacking cases, sweeping, lifting up to 50lbs, loading ingredients, and ...

New

The Packaging Machine Operator will operate machines that perform one or more packaging functions including but not limited to filling, labeling, packing, or wrapping containers. Ways you will make a ...

Showing results 41-60

Packing Machine Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$13

$16

$20

How much do packing machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 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 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 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 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:

Infographic showing various Packing Machine Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, 43% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,165 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Manufacturing Operator I - 3rd Shift (Case Packer)

Elk Grove Village, IL โ€ข On-site

CREATIVE WERKS LLC
Plastics Packaging Film and Sheet (including Laminated) Manufacturingย โ€ขย 501 - 1,000 employees

$17 - $21/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Description

Job Summary:

The Operator I is responsible for setting up, operating, monitoring, and maintaining machinery used in the production process. This role ensures equipment runs efficiently, materials are loaded correctly, and finished products meet quality standards. Operators perform routine inspections, troubleshoot issues, follow safety protocols, and maintain accurate production records.


Responsibilities of the Position:

  • Operate at least one type of primary packaging capability; including handling, forming, sealing, weighing, and discharge systems of finished packaged goods
  • Select and verify recipe selection for primary packaging equipment and PPCs, and adjust scales to maintain target weights if applicable
  • Maintain approved centerline settings and restore them after downtime or change overs
  • Maintain adherence to manufacturing instructions (MI) per item
  • Create finished good lot codes both manually and systematically on a daily basis
  • Perform autonomous maintenance (AM) per line form and frequency
  • Conduct startup and shut down procedures safely and per SOP
  • Perform 1st pass troubleshooting of common issues, such as film tracking, seal defects, and weight variations
  • Escalate issues using the help chain and participate in DMS 1 Communications
  • Maintain all equipment to ensure efficient running
  • Report any machine deficiencies to Maintenance as needed
  • Supply all materials to each employee at the line when required to do so
  • Complete required quality checks, inspections, and documentation
  • Maintain 5S standards and equipment cleanliness
  • Assign duties to employees at the line as needed
  • Enforce company rules regarding safety, discipline, cooperation and teamwork
  • Attend selected meetings
  • Perform other duties as assigned by Management

Requirements

Qualifications:

  • 0-2 years Operator experience
  • Average math skills and proven ability to perform tasks
  • Ability to read and interpret company documents
  • Ability to communicate effectively with all levels
  • Mechanical or machine operation experience

Food Safety Responsibilities:

  • Attend all food safety training sessions (GMP, SQF, HACCP, Allergen, Food Facility Security, Preventing Foodborne Illness)
  • Participate in company GMP walks
  • Enforce company rules regarding food safety and monitoring

Working Conditions:

  • Office setting and warehouse environment with temperature range of 55 - 80 degrees
  • This position may require the employee to work weekends or shifts other than their own to meet the needs of the business.
  • This position may require the employee to work at other facilities than their own to meet the needs of the business
  • Working Shifts between 8 and 12 hours
  • Able to work in a facility where milk, eggs, peanuts, soy and/or wheat allergens are processed, with or without accommodation.

Physical Requirements:

  • Active position that requires standing, walking, reaching, and bending
  • Able to operate industrial equipment and company specific equipment.
  • Associate must regularly lift and/or move objects up to 10 pounds, frequently lift and/or move objects up to 50 pounds, and

Creative Werks logo

About Creative Werks

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Plastics packaging film and sheet (including laminated) manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Elk Grove Village, IL, US

Year founded

1999