Packaging Machine Operators
Overview
Packaging machine operators run automated machines that prepare products for shipping and storage, from food items to consumer goods. You'll monitor production lines, check product quality, fix jams or equipment issues, and make sure everything is properly labeled and packaged. The work involves using computerized controls, quality inspection tools, and working as part of a manufacturing team. Many operators learn skills through on-the-job training and can advance to supervisory roles or specialize in different types of packaging technology.
Did you know?
The role involves standing for extended periods, lifting packages, and working with machinery, requiring adherence to strict OSHA safety standards common in American manufacturing facilities.
At a Glance
Median Wage
$41,164 Avg/yr
Growth
Fast Growing
Top Skill
Systems Analysis
Key Responsibilities
- Start machine by engaging controls.
- Tend or operate machine that packages product.
- Stock and sort product for packaging or filling machine operation, and replenish packaging supplies, such as wrapping paper, plastic sheet, boxes, cartons, glue, ink, or labels.
- Secure finished packaged items by hand tying, sewing, gluing, stapling, or attaching fastener.
- Supply materials to spindles, conveyors, hoppers, or other feeding devices and unload packaged product.
- Adjust machine components and machine tension and pressure according to size or processing angle of product.
- Count and record finished and rejected packaged items.
- Monitor the production line, watching for problems such as pile-ups, jams, or glue that isn't sticking properly.
- Regulate machine flow, speed, or temperature.
- Stack finished packaged items, or wrap protective material around each item, and pack the items in cartons or containers.
- Observe machine operations to ensure quality and conformity of filled or packaged products to standards.
- Clean and remove damaged or otherwise inferior materials to prepare raw products for processing.
- Sort, grade, weigh, and inspect products, verifying and adjusting product weight or measurement to meet specifications.
- Stop or reset machines when malfunctions occur, clear machine jams, and report malfunctions to a supervisor.
- Clean, oil, and make minor adjustments or repairs to machinery and equipment, such as opening valves or setting guides.
- Clean packaging containers, line and pad crates, or assemble cartons to prepare for product packing.
- Remove finished packaged items from machine and separate rejected items.
- Attach identification labels to finished packaged items, or cut stencils and stencil information on containers, such as lot numbers or shipping destinations.
- Inspect and remove defective products and packaging material.
- Package the product in the form in which it will be sent out, for example, filling bags with flour from a chute or spout.
Career Considerations
Physical Demands and Safety Requirements
The role involves standing for extended periods, lifting packages, and working with machinery, requiring adherence to strict OSHA safety standards common in American manufacturing facilities.
Technical Skills and Career Advancement
Developing expertise in automated packaging systems and quality control can lead to supervisory roles or specialized technician positions with higher pay in the competitive American job market.
Industry Growth and Job Stability
The packaging industry in America continues to expand due to e-commerce growth and consumer goods demand, providing stable employment opportunities across various sectors.