Packaging Operator Salaries

Updated on Jun 05, 2025
Position
Salary

How much does a Packaging Operator make?

The average salary for a Packaging Operator is $39,473 per year in the US.

A Packaging Operator plays a key role in many industries, ensuring that products are properly packaged for shipping and storage. This job often involves working on assembly lines, using machines to seal and label packages. The average salary for a Packaging Operator is around $39,473 per year. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the specific industry.

Factors that can influence salary include:

  • Experience: More experienced operators often earn higher salaries.
  • Location: Salaries can differ significantly between regions. Urban areas may offer higher wages.
  • Industry: Certain industries, like pharmaceuticals, may pay more due to the need for precision and compliance.
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What are the highest paying cities for a Packaging Operator?

Job seekers looking for high-paying roles as Packaging Operators should consider cities like Modesto, CA, and Bakersfield, CA. These cities offer some of the top salaries in the industry, with Modesto leading at $56,200 annually. Other cities such as Orlando, FL, and Akron, OH, also provide competitive wages, making them attractive options for those in the field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Packaging Operator jobs, highlighting Modesto, CA with the highest at $56,200 and Chicago, IL with the lowest at $43,924.
  1. Modesto, CA
    Average Salary: $56,200
    In Modesto, you can find work in various industries, including agriculture and manufacturing. Companies like C&A Packaging offer opportunities to package products efficiently. The city's growing economy provides a stable job market.
    Find Packaging Operator jobs in Modesto, CA


  2. Bakersfield, CA
    Average Salary: $55,357
    Bakersfield has a strong agricultural sector, creating many jobs in packaging. Firms like Kern Packing Company need skilled workers. The city's warm climate makes it a pleasant place to work.
    Find Packaging Operator jobs in Bakersfield, CA


  3. Orlando, FL
    Average Salary: $53,112
    Orlando's tourism industry offers many packaging jobs. Companies like Universal Orlando Resort require packaging staff. The city's vibrant atmosphere makes work enjoyable.
    Find Packaging Operator jobs in Orlando, FL


  4. Akron, OH
    Average Salary: $48,099
    Akron has a rich industrial history, providing many packaging roles. Companies like Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company need packaging operators. The city's diverse economy offers job security.
    Find Packaging Operator jobs in Akron, OH


  5. Cedar Rapids, IA
    Average Salary: $47,092
    Cedar Rapids is known for its manufacturing sector, offering numerous packaging positions. Companies like Rockwell Collins need skilled workers. The city's strong community support enhances job satisfaction.
    Find Packaging Operator jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA


  6. Madison, WI
    Average Salary: $45,000
    Madison's tech industry and food processing sector create many packaging jobs. Firms like Epic Systems offer opportunities. The city's high quality of life makes it an attractive place to work.
    Find Packaging Operator jobs in Madison, WI


  7. Visalia, CA
    Average Salary: $44,336
    Visalia's agricultural industry provides many packaging jobs. Companies like Tanimura & Antle offer roles in packaging. The city's friendly environment makes it a great place to work.
    Find Packaging Operator jobs in Visalia, CA


  8. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $44,176
    San Diego's diverse economy offers many packaging jobs. Companies like Qualcomm need packaging staff. The city's beautiful beaches and mild weather make it a desirable place to live and work.
    Find Packaging Operator jobs in San Diego, CA


  9. Fort Wayne, IN
    Average Salary: $43,928
    Fort Wayne's manufacturing sector offers many packaging positions. Companies like BorgWarner need skilled workers. The city's affordable cost of living makes it an attractive option for job seekers.
    Find Packaging Operator jobs in Fort Wayne, IN


  10. Chicago, IL
    Average Salary: $43,924
    Chicago's large economy offers numerous packaging jobs. Companies like Kraft Heinz need packaging operators. The city's vibrant culture and diverse job market make it an exciting place to work.
    Find Packaging Operator jobs in Chicago, IL

What are the best companies a Packaging Operator can work for?

B. Braun offers the highest pay for Packaging Operator jobs, with an average salary of $64,059. Frito-Lay follows closely, providing an average salary of $57,240. Bunge also offers a competitive salary of $51,556. These companies value their packaging operators and offer attractive compensation packages.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Packaging Operator jobs, highlighting B. Braun with the highest at $64,059 and JM HUBER CORPORATION with the lowest at $46,946.
  1. B. Braun
    Average Salary: $64,059
    B. Braun offers competitive salaries for Packaging Operators. They focus on medical supplies and have locations across the U.S. and internationally. Employees enjoy a supportive work environment.


  2. Frito-Lay
    Average Salary: $57,240
    Frito-Lay provides a good salary for Packaging Operators. This company is known for its snacks and operates many facilities across the U.S. Workers benefit from a dynamic and fast-paced atmosphere.


  3. Bunge
    Average Salary: $51,556
    Bunge offers a solid salary for Packaging Operators. They work in agriculture and food products, with locations worldwide. Employees appreciate the company's commitment to sustainability and innovation.


  4. The Clorox Company
    Average Salary: $50,124
    The Clorox Company provides a respectable salary for Packaging Operators. They are famous for household cleaning products and have facilities in North America. Workers enjoy a strong company culture and benefits.


  5. Cargill
    Average Salary: $49,906
    Cargill offers a competitive salary for Packaging Operators. They are a global leader in food and agriculture, with many locations worldwide. Employees benefit from a diverse and inclusive work environment.


  6. Abbott
    Average Salary: $47,700
    Abbott provides a good salary for Packaging Operators. They focus on health care products and have facilities in various countries. Workers appreciate the company's dedication to innovation and quality.


  7. Land O'Lakes
    Average Salary: $47,512
    Land O'Lakes offers a solid salary for Packaging Operators. They are known for their dairy products and have locations across the U.S. Employees enjoy a family-friendly work environment.


  8. Humm Kombucha
    Average Salary: $47,464
    Humm Kombucha provides a good salary for Packaging Operators. They specialize in kombucha beverages and have facilities in the U.S. Workers appreciate the company's focus on health and wellness.


  9. Byrne
    Average Salary: $47,414
    Byrne offers a competitive salary for Packaging Operators. They are a leading provider of food and beverage packaging solutions, with locations in the U.S. Employees benefit from a supportive and innovative work environment.


  10. JM HUBER CORPORATION
    Average Salary: $46,946
    JM HUBER CORPORATION provides a good salary for Packaging Operators. They focus on chemicals and materials, with facilities worldwide. Workers appreciate the company's commitment to sustainability and safety.

How to earn more as a Packaging Operator?

A Packaging Operator can find several ways to increase their earnings. By focusing on key areas, one can enhance their skills and value in the workplace. Attention to detail, efficiency, and a commitment to learning can lead to higher pay and better job opportunities. Building a strong reputation for reliability and productivity can also open doors to higher-paying positions.

Here are some factors that can help a Packaging Operator earn more:

  1. Skill Development: Gaining expertise in packaging techniques can lead to higher pay. Attend training sessions and workshops to improve skills.
  2. Certifications: Earning certifications in packaging can boost earning potential. Certifications show a commitment to the profession and can lead to higher-paying jobs.
  3. Experience: More experience often means higher pay. Seek opportunities to work in different environments to gain diverse skills.
  4. Performance: Consistently high performance can lead to raises and bonuses. Strive for excellence in every task.
  5. Networking: Building a network of industry contacts can lead to job opportunities that pay more. Attend industry events and connect with professionals.

Currently 747 Packaging Operator job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Packaging Operator in the US?

Learn what a Packaging Operator does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Packaging Operator today.
Position
Overview
Packaging Operator
747 Job Openings