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Protective Packaging Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AUTOKINITON

Packaging Engineer

Watertown, TN · On-site

Designs and develop protective packaging containers, dunnage and unique racks * .Analyzes engineering drawings and specifications to determine physical requirements, quality, safety and materials ...

kubota

Packaging Engineer

Edgerton, KS · On-site

Standardize bagging, boxing, labeling, and protective packaging to reduce damage and improve consistency. * Conduct ISTA/ASTM testing and transit simulations, including drop, vibration, and ...

kubota

Packaging Engineer

Edgerton, KS · On-site

Standardize bagging, boxing, labeling, and protective packaging to reduce damage and improve consistency. * Conduct ISTA/ASTM testing and transit simulations, including drop, vibration, and ...

Kubota

Packaging Engineer

Edgerton, KS · On-site

Standardize bagging, boxing, labeling, and protective packaging to reduce damage and improve consistency. * Conduct ISTA/ASTM testing and transit simulations, including drop, vibration, and ...

Autokiniton

Packaging Engineer

Watertown, TN · On-site

Designs and develop protective packaging containers, dunnage and unique racks. * Analyzes engineering drawings and specifications to determine physical requirements, quality, safety and materials ...

PD Instore

Packaging Designer

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Design packaging structures that optimize product protection, manufacturing efficiency, transportation, and retail presentation. * Manages and adhere to established schedules and budgets while ...

PD Instore

Packaging Designer

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Design packaging structures that optimize product protection, manufacturing efficiency, transportation, and retail presentation. * Manages and adhere to established schedules and budgets while ...

amphenol

Packaging Engineer

Allen, TX · On-site

Essential Functions: • Design and specify protective packaging for new and existing products (boxes, trays, inserts, cushioning, pallets, films, labels). • Develop packaging concepts that meet ...

Enhance Recruiting

National Packaging Salels

Houston, TX · On-site

$92K - $119K/yr

Sell integrated packaging solutions, including corrugated packaging, flexible packaging, stretch and shrink films, protective packaging, and specialty products, along with value-added kitting, co ...

NextHop AI

Packaging Engineer

Santa Clara, CA

Develop, implement and oversee the cost-effective package solutions that ensure data center networking product protection and marketability as per client requirements, and industry standards.

NextHop AI

Packaging Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

Develop, implement and oversee the cost-effective package solutions that ensure data center networking product protection and marketability as per client requirements, and industry standards.

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All JobsProtective Packaging Jobs

Protective Packaging information

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How much do protective packaging jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for protective packaging in the United States is $16.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are packer jobs in demand?

Packer jobs are generally in steady demand across various industries such as manufacturing, e-commerce, and logistics. These roles often require basic skills and can offer entry-level opportunities, with demand influenced by seasonal peaks and industry growth. Employment prospects can vary based on location and economic conditions.

What is protective packaging?

Protective packaging refers to materials and solutions designed to shield products from damage during shipping, handling, and storage. This can include bubble wrap, foam, airbags, corrugated inserts, and other cushioning materials. The main goal is to prevent breakage, moisture, or contamination, ensuring goods arrive safely at their destination. Protective packaging is used across many industries, including electronics, food, pharmaceuticals, and e-commerce. Proper packaging can also help reduce returns and increase customer satisfaction.

Is packaging a stable career?

Protective packaging is a stable career option as it is essential for shipping and logistics industries, which consistently require packaging workers. The job often involves manual labor, operating packaging machinery, and following safety protocols, with opportunities for advancement and certifications in quality control or machinery operation.

What is a career in packaging?

A career in protective packaging involves designing, manufacturing, and handling packaging materials that safeguard products during shipping and storage. Roles may include packaging technician, engineer, or assembler, often requiring knowledge of materials, safety standards, and equipment operation. The field offers opportunities in manufacturing facilities, warehouses, and logistics environments.

What is the difference between Protective Packaging vs Packaging Technician?

AspectProtective PackagingPackaging Technician
CredentialsTypically no formal certifications required, but knowledge of materials helpfulOften requires high school diploma; certifications in packaging or safety may be preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or warehouse settings, focusing on product protectionProduction lines, warehouses, or packaging facilities, handling various products
Industry UsageUsed across manufacturing, shipping, and logistics to protect goodsInvolved in assembling, packing, and preparing products for shipment

Protective Packaging focuses on designing and providing packaging solutions to safeguard products during transit, while Packaging Technicians handle the actual packing process, assembling and preparing items for shipment. Both roles are essential in the supply chain but differ in responsibilities and skill requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in protective packaging, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in protective packaging often encounter challenges such as balancing cost-effectiveness with product safety, staying compliant with evolving environmental regulations, and adapting to new materials or technologies. To address these, it's important to stay updated on industry best practices, collaborate closely with product engineers and logistics teams, and participate in ongoing training. Leveraging data from shipping and returns can also help identify areas for improvement in packaging design and material selection.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Protective Packaging, and why are they important?

To thrive in Protective Packaging, you need a solid understanding of packaging materials, product protection techniques, and industry standards, often supported by experience or training in packaging or logistics. Familiarity with design software like AutoCAD, packaging machinery, and safety regulations is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication help professionals create customized, cost-effective solutions and collaborate with cross-functional teams. These skills are crucial to ensure products are safely transported, reduce damage, and meet client and regulatory requirements.

How to become a packaging specialist?

To become a packaging specialist, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with experience or training in packaging processes, materials, and safety standards. Gaining skills in inventory management, quality control, and using packaging machinery can improve job prospects, and certifications in packaging or related fields may be beneficial.
More about Protective Packaging jobs
What cities are hiring for Protective Packaging jobs? Cities with the most Protective Packaging job openings:
What states have the most Protective Packaging jobs? States with the most job openings for Protective Packaging jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Protective Packaging jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Protective Packaging jobs are:
Protective Packaging jobs near you
Infographic showing various Protective Packaging job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,506 per year, or $16.1 per hour.
Structural Designer Packaging Engineer

Structural Designer Packaging Engineer

Golden West Packaging Group

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$70K - $71K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Golden West Packaging Group rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

24th of 113 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

Position Title: Structural Designer / Packaging Engineer
Reports to: Design Supervisor
FLSA: Exempt
Position Summary:
The Structural Designer develops and implements packaging solutions for customers across consumer, industrial, retail, club store, protective packaging, and display markets. This position applies packaging design principles, technical knowledge, and problem-solving skills to develop manufacturable, cost-effective packaging systems utilizing corrugated, folding carton, foam, and related materials.
The incumbent exercises independent judgment in evaluating customer requirements, developing design concepts, selecting appropriate materials, assessing manufacturing feasibility, and recommending packaging solutions that meet customer objectives and company standards. The position collaborates with customers, sales personnel, customer service, and manufacturing teams to support successful packaging development and implementation.
Essential Functions:
  • Design and develop custom packaging solutions that meet customer requirements, manufacturing capabilities, performance objectives, and profitability goals.
  • Apply structural design principles to optimize package functionality, manufacturability, product protection, and cost effectiveness.
  • Evaluate packaging requirements involving material selection, product protection, converting processes, manufacturing capabilities, and supply chain considerations.
  • Exercise independent judgment in developing design concepts, structural configurations, and packaging recommendations.
  • Develop engineering drawings, specifications, prototypes, CAD models, and technical documentation required for manufacturing implementation.
  • Evaluate manufacturing feasibility and recommend appropriate material specifications, tooling requirements, and production methodologies.
  • Analyze packaging and production challenges and recommend practical solutions to improve performance, quality, and efficiency.
  • Coordinate packaging development projects from concept through implementation while collaborating with sales, graphics, customer service, production, and external suppliers.
  • Provide technical support and packaging design recommendations to customers, sales personnel, and internal departments.
  • Participate in customer meetings to discuss packaging requirements, product performance, manufacturability, and cost considerations.
  • Research packaging materials, manufacturing processes, and industry trends to support innovation and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Recommend improvements to packaging designs and production processes that enhance operational efficiency, product quality, and customer satisfaction.
  • Ensure compliance with engineering specifications, quality standards, customer requirements, and company procedures.
  • Maintain accurate design records, engineering documentation, and project files.
  • Perform other professional-level duties consistent with the scope and responsibilities of the position.

Education & Experience Required:
  • Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Packaging Design, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Design, or a closely related technical discipline preferred.
  • Minimum of three (3) years of experience in structural packaging design, packaging engineering, or related converting environments involving corrugated, folding carton, displays, and protective packaging applications.
  • Demonstrated ability to apply packaging design principles, technical knowledge, and problem-solving skills to develop effective packaging solutions.
  • Equivalent combinations of education, technical training, and relevant experience may be considered.

Technical Aptitude & Software:
  • Proficiency with ArtiosCAD for structural packaging development and manufacturing specification preparation.
  • Working knowledge of Adobe Illustrator for graphics integration and technical file preparation.
  • Experience with Esko software, including Studio and related packaging workflow applications, preferred.
  • Knowledge of corrugated, folding carton, foam, and protective packaging materials, manufacturing processes, and converting technologies.
  • Ability to evaluate alternatives, make technical recommendations, and communicate packaging solutions to customers and internal stakeholders.

Skills:
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
  • Effective verbal, written, and technical communication skills.
  • Ability to exercise sound judgment when making recommendations affecting product performance, manufacturability, and customer satisfaction.
  • Strong organizational and project coordination skills.
  • Experience with Kongsberg cutting tables, prototype development, and packaging validation methodologies preferred.

Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to inspect samples, evaluate prototypes, and perform packaging development and testing activities.
  • Occasional lifting of materials, samples, and prototypes up to 30 pounds.
  • Ability to travel periodically to customer locations, manufacturing facilities, and industry events as business needs require.

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