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Protective Packaging Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Shorr Packaging Corp.

Package Test Lab Manager

Aurora, IL · On-site

$125K - $150K/yr

Experience with packaging materials (corrugate, plastics, films, protective packaging) * Familiarity with lab equipment such as compression testers, vibration tables, and environmental chambers

Arthrex

Sr. Packaging Process Engineer

Fort Myers, FL · On-site

$97K - $125K/yr

This role will provide support in designing and developing packaging solutions that protect products during transportation, storage, and handling. In addition, this position will involve providing ...

cap

Category Manager Packaging Procurement

Winnetka, IL

$87K - $118K/yr

Own and execute multi-year category strategies for packaging materials, including corrugate, thermal and cold-chain packaging, EPS, protective packaging, and custom labeling/branding. * Serve as the ...

pelican

Sales Engineering Manager

Torrance, CA · On-site

Protect what matters. Pelican is seeking a customer-focused Sales Engineering Manager to lead the development of custom protective packaging solutions from concept through production. In this role ...

pelican

Sales Engineering Manager

Torrance, CA

Protect what matters. Pelican is seeking a customer-focused Sales Engineering Manager to lead the development of custom protective packaging solutions from concept through production. In this role ...

Ranpak

Paper Engineer

Concord Township, OH · On-site

You will be supporting both our Protective Packaging Solutions product lines as well as our Automation business. Key Responsibilities * Be the in-house expert for all paper and other material related ...

pelican

Sales Engineering Manager

Torrance, CA

Protect what matters. Pelican is seeking a customer-focused Sales Engineering Manager to lead the development of custom protective packaging solutions from concept through production. In this role ...

pelican

Sales Engineering Manager

Torrance, CA

Protect what matters. Pelican is seeking a customer-focused Sales Engineering Manager to lead the development of custom protective packaging solutions from concept through production. In this role ...

pelican

Sales Engineering Manager

Torrance, CA · On-site

Protect what matters. Pelican is seeking a customer-focused Sales Engineering Manager to lead the development of custom protective packaging solutions from concept through production. In this role ...

pelican

Sales Engineering Manager

Torrance, CA · On-site

Protect what matters. Pelican is seeking a customer-focused Sales Engineering Manager to lead the development of custom protective packaging solutions from concept through production. In this role ...

pelican

Sales Engineering Manager

Torrance, CA

Protect what matters. Pelican is seeking a customer-focused Sales Engineering Manager to lead the development of custom protective packaging solutions from concept through production. In this role ...

pelican

Sales Engineering Manager

Torrance, CA

Protect what matters. Pelican is seeking a customer-focused Sales Engineering Manager to lead the development of custom protective packaging solutions from concept through production. In this role ...

pelican

Sales Engineering Manager

Torrance, CA · On-site

Protect what matters. Pelican is seeking a customer-focused Sales Engineering Manager to lead the development of custom protective packaging solutions from concept through production. In this role ...

pelican

Sales Engineering Manager

Torrance, CA

Protect what matters. Pelican is seeking a customer-focused Sales Engineering Manager to lead the development of custom protective packaging solutions from concept through production. In this role ...

pelican

Sales Engineering Manager

Torrance, CA · On-site

Protect what matters. Pelican is seeking a customer-focused Sales Engineering Manager to lead the development of custom protective packaging solutions from concept through production. In this role ...

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Protective Packaging information

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How much do protective packaging jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 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.
Package Test Lab Manager

Package Test Lab Manager

Shorr Packaging Corp.

Aurora, IL • On-site

$125K - $150K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Shorr Packaging rating

3.1

Company rating: 3.1 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

366th of 366 rated retail wholesalers

Job description

Together, We Own it! Start your employee owner journey with Shorr Packaging.


The Package Test Lab Manager oversees all operations within the packaging test laboratory, ensuring accurate, timely, and compliant testing of packaging materials, components, and finished goods.

This role will lead technicians, manage testing protocols, maintains lab accreditation, and partners with crossfunctional teams to support quality, regulatory compliance, and continuous improvement. This position requires a high level of both verbal and written communication skills as interactions with customers, both internal and external will be expected daily.

Responsibilities

Lab Operations & Testing Execution
  • Lab Operations Management: Lead daily lab workflow, scheduling, sample intake, and resource allocation to meet testing timelines and customer commitments
  • Testing & Validation: Execute and oversee packaging tests (drop, vibration, compression, environmental) ensuring alignment with ISTA, ASTM, and customer specifications
  • Test Quality & Reporting: Review, validate, and communicate test results; ensure accuracy, consistency, and proper documentation/traceability
  • Cross-Functional Support: Partner with sales, packaging design, and suppliers to support product development, customer requests, and root cause analysis
  • Customer & Internal Enablement: Provide recommendations and insights based on testing outcomes to improve packaging performance and reduce risk
Equipment, Quality & Compliance
  • Equipment Oversight: Ensure proper calibration, maintenance, and validation of all lab equipment (drop testers, vibration tables, compression testers, environmental chambers)
  • Quality & Compliance: Maintain adherence to safety standards, testing protocols, and applicable certifications (ISTA/ASTM); support audits and resolve discrepancies
People Leadership & Lab Development
  • Team Leadership: Hire, coach, and develop lab technicians; set expectations and ensure adherence to safety and quality standards
  • Process & SOP Development: Establish and standardize testing protocols, workflows, and documentation to support scalability and consistency

Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or equivalent experience
  • Minimum of 5+ years of packaging testing experience including team leadership responsibilities.
  • Prior experience leading a lab or technical team strongly preferred
  • Experience with packaging materials (corrugate, plastics, films, protective packaging)
  • Familiarity with lab equipment such as compression testers, vibration tables, and environmental chambers
  • Strong knowledge of ISTA, ASTM, Hazmat and TAPPI regulatory packaging standards.
  • Proven people leadership and team development experience

Compensation
The base pay range for this role is $125,000 - $150,000 per year.

Shorr Packaging does not provide work authorization sponsorship for this position.

Shorr Benefits
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) - Together, We Own It!
  • Comprehensive Employee Benefits: Medical, dental, vision and other insurance coverages
  • Generous PTO with vacation, sick and floating holidays.
  • 401K plan plus matching
  • Team based Employee Owner company culture

Shorr Packaging Corp is an equal-opportunity employer. It is the policy of Shorr Packaging Corp to afford full Equal Employment Opportunity, and all applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected veteran status or disability status or any other legally protected status.

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