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Starting Package Handler Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Packaging Personified

Material Handler

Carol Stream, IL · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Material Handler 2nd shift: 3:30PM-12:00AM $20-24 per hour Who We Are At Packaging Personified, w ... Competitive starting pay based on skills and experience * Paid holidays * Paid time off * Medical ...

Midway Staffing

Material Handler

Lake Zurich, IL · On-site

$18/hr

Starting at $18/hr depending on experience - temp-to-hire Duties: * Utilize RF scanners to ... Midway Staffing offers a comprehensive benefits package including Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life ...

Packaging Personified

Material Handler

Carol Stream, IL · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Material Handler 2nd shift: 3:30PM-12:00AM $20-24 per hour Who We Are At Packaging Personified, w ... Competitive starting pay based on skills and experience * Paid holidays * Paid time off * Medical ...

Packaging Personified

Material Handler

Carol Stream, IL

$20 - $24/hr

Material Handler 2nd shift: 3:30PM-12:00AM $20-24 per hour Who We Are At Packaging Personified, w ... Competitive starting pay based on skills and experience * Paid holidays * Paid time off * Medical ...

D&W Fine Pack

Material Handler

Lake Zurich, IL · On-site

$18/hr

Pay Range starting at $18.00 an hour RESPONSIBILITIES: • Move stock and other materials to and ... We offer a competitive salary & comprehensive benefit package which includes: • Medical • ...

Provisur Technologies

Material Handler

Mokena, IL · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Package, label and select carrier for outgoing materials, move, store and space materials as needed ... The compensation range below reflects a good faith estimate of starting base pay for full-time ...

Provisur Technologies

Material Handler

Mokena, IL · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Package, label and select carrier for outgoing materials, move, store and space materials as needed ... The compensation range below reflects a good faith estimate of starting base pay for full-time ...

Provisur Technologies

Material Handler

Mokena, IL · On-site

Package, label and select carrier for outgoing materials, move, store and space materials as needed ... The compensation range below reflects a good faith estimate of starting base pay for full-time ...

Aptar Digital Health

Material Handler I (51535)

Cary, IL · On-site

$18.50/hr

Our innovations transform conventional packaging into advanced dispensing systems, offering ... In compliance with pay transparency requirements, the starting salary for this role is $18.50 (plus ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsStarting Package Handler JobsStarting Package Handler Jobs in Chicago, IL

Starting Package Handler information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$10

$18

$25

How much do starting package handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for starting package handler in Chicago, IL is $18.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a starting package handler do?

A Starting Package Handler is responsible for loading, unloading, and sorting packages within a warehouse or shipping facility. They ensure that packages are properly handled, scanned, and routed to their appropriate destinations. The role often involves physical work, including lifting, carrying, and moving packages of varying sizes and weights. Package handlers play a crucial part in maintaining the efficiency and accuracy of shipping operations. This entry-level position is common in logistics companies and shipping carriers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a starting package handler?

To thrive as a Starting Package Handler, you need strong physical stamina, attention to detail, and the ability to follow safety protocols, typically with a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with conveyor belt systems, barcode scanners, and warehouse management software is commonly required. Reliable teamwork, time management, and effective communication are soft skills that help individuals excel in this fast-paced environment. These skills and qualities are vital for maintaining efficiency, ensuring accuracy, and upholding safety standards in package handling operations.

What are some common challenges a starting package handler may encounter in their first few months, and how can they overcome them?

Starting Package Handlers often face challenges such as adapting to the physical demands of the job, learning efficient package sorting techniques, and working in a fast-paced environment. To overcome these challenges, it’s important to focus on proper lifting techniques to prevent injury, communicate proactively with team members, and ask for guidance from more experienced handlers. With time and practice, most new hires find themselves becoming more comfortable with the workflow and can handle increasing responsibilities with confidence.

What is the difference between Starting Package Handler vs Package Handler?

AspectStarting Package HandlerPackage Handler
CredentialsNo formal certifications requiredNo formal certifications required
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, warehouse or distribution centerWarehouse or distribution center
Employer & IndustryLogistics, shipping companies, retail distributionLogistics, shipping companies, retail distribution
Search & Comparison IntentEntry-level, beginner rolesGeneral roles, experienced or starting positions

The main difference is that a Starting Package Handler typically refers to an entry-level position with no prior experience needed, focusing on learning the basics of package handling. A Package Handler may be more general, including both entry-level and experienced roles. Both roles are common in logistics and distribution industries, with similar work environments and employer types.

How long are starting package handler shifts?

Starting package handler shifts typically last around 4 to 8 hours per day, depending on the company's scheduling needs. Shifts can be part-time or full-time, often including early morning, evening, or weekend hours, and may require standing for extended periods and lifting packages. The specific shift length can vary based on location and operational demands.

Is working as a starting package handler worth it?

Starting package handler positions typically offer low to moderate pay, often with opportunities for overtime and advancement. The job involves physical labor, such as lifting and moving packages, and usually requires working in a fast-paced environment with shift schedules. Whether it is worth it depends on individual goals, such as gaining work experience or earning immediate income.

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Starting Package Handler jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Starting Package Handler job openings:

Starting Package Handler jobs near you

Material Handler I- 1st, 2nd, & 3rd Shift

Hearthside Food Solutions LLC

Des Plaines, IL • On-site

$20.20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

Hearthside Food Solutions rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

349th of 443 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

What We Want to Give You:
We offer a competitive wage and wide array of benefits including: • health/dental/vision insurance • flex spending accounts • short & long-term disability • paid holidays and vacation • bonus opportunities (referral, production, etc.).
Job Summary:
The Material Handler is responsible for storing, moving, and handling products and materials. Material Handlers work in a structured work environment to minimize safety risks. Material Handlers will need to be reliable and able to work with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP's) at all times.
Job Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Identifies, transports, packs, removes and disposes of products and materials.
  • Operates forklifts, handcarts, or pallet jacks to pick, replenish, shuttle, and load/unload orders.
  • Maintain inventory levels as directed.
  • Feed lines with product as scheduled or directed by supervision or line leads.
  • Ship and receive materials throughout duration of shift.
  • Operate all equipment in a safe manner.
  • Count, weigh, record numbers of units or materials moved or handled.
  • Ensure that product moved is identified and labeled correctly.
  • Perform required housekeeping to maintain 5S and keep work areas clean, such as sweeping floors, putting trash into containers, and picking stray product up from the floor.
  • Performs all other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required:
  • Must be knowledgeable in GMPs or the willingness to learn.
  • Ability to obtain forklift certification within 90 days.
  • Ability to operate stand-up and extended forklifts.
  • Sufficient math skills .
  • Must have the ability to understand and follow all safety policies and procedures.
  • Ability to read and write in English preferred.

Job Qualifications & Experience:
  • High school diploma or equivalent is preferred.
  • Must be 18 years of age.
  • Previous Material Handling experience a plus, varies by location.

Work Environment:
  • This is a manufacturing environment and there will be an exposure to a variety of machines, noise levels, and varying temperatures.
  • This is a team environment; Material Handlers must be able to work together and communicate in a respectful and professional manner.
  • Must be able to work necessary overtime based on staffing needs and customer demand, as well as across shifts.

Physical Requirements:
  • Reaching with hands/arms throughout the day.
  • Ability to lift up to 90lbs assisted and 40lbs unassisted.
  • Ability to stand up to 80% of the time scheduled.
  • Ability to walk, climb and/or balance throughout shift.

Starting Pay: Material Handler $20.20 /hr., We offer a comprehensive benefits package for full-time employees including health, dental, 401k and wellness benefits beginning on the 90th day of employment.
This information is provided per the relevant state and local pay transparency laws for the location in which this position will be performed. Base pay information is based on market location.
Equal Opportunity Employer.
If you need assistance applying, please contact Human Resources.
Maker's Pride is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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