Packaging Job Description
What Is a Packager?
A professional packer or packager works in warehouses, factories, or distribution centers, preparing goods for shipment or storage. They handle a variety of products and materials across industries. Attention to detail, consistency, and physical stamina are key traits for this role, which supports production, logistics, and supply chain operations.
What Does a Packager Do?
A packager selects proper containers, measures and weighs items, and applies labels, barcodes, or tags based on order requirements. They inspect products for damage, sort goods by type or destination, and seal packages to meet handling or shipping standards. Some also assemble boxes, track inventory, or operate light packaging machinery.
Packager Responsibilities
- Inspect products for quality and report defects
- Select appropriate packaging materials and containers
- Weigh, measure, and count items before packing
- Apply labels, barcodes, and handling instructions
- Seal containers using tape, glue, or machinery
- Track packed items and complete production logs
- Maintain cleanliness and organization of packing station
Packager Duties
- Fold and assemble cartons or boxes by hand
- Wrap items in protective materials like foam or plastic
- Stack finished packages on pallets for transport
- Load packaged goods onto carts or conveyors
- Sort packages by order number or destination
- Remove defective or expired products from the line
- Restock packaging supplies such as tape, labels, or boxes
Packager Skills, Certification, and Training
Packager Skills
To work as a packager, you need strong attention to detail, basic math skills, and good hand-eye coordination. You should be able to follow instructions, work quickly, and stay organized in a fast-paced setting. Physical stamina helps, as the job may require standing for long periods or lifting. Teamwork and time management are also useful.
- Manual dexterity for handling small items and packaging materials
- Attention to detail to catch defects or labeling errors
- Physical stamina for standing, lifting, and repetitive tasks
- Basic math skills for counting, measuring, or weighing products
- Time management to meet packing quotas and deadlines
- Organization to keep workstations clean and efficient
Packager Training
Packer training teaches you how to prepare items for shipment or storage. You use tools, follow safety standards, read packing orders, and handle materials like fragile goods or perishables. Training includes labeling, inventory tracking, and working under time-based production goals. Examples of training include:
- Match products to pick lists and packing slips
- Wrap items with bubble wrap, foam, or film
- Apply shipping labels and barcode tracking stickers
- Use insulated packaging for cold or perishable goods
- Build stable pallets using safe stacking methods
- Operate handheld scanners to update inventory systems
Packager Certification
Certification involves learning standardized packing methods, safety protocols, and compliance rules for specific industries. Certification may cover hazardous materials, food safety, or shipping standards. Earning one can help you qualify for specialized roles, meet employer requirements, or improve accuracy, speed, and safety in warehouse settings. Examples of certifications:
- OSHA 10-Hour General Industry Safety Card
- Certified Hazardous Materials Packer (CHMP)
- Safe Quality Food (SQF) Practitioner Certification
- DOT Packaging and Shipping of Hazardous Materials
- Certified Logistics Associate (CLA) from MSSC
Packager Salary and Job Benefits
Packager Salary
Packagers or packers in the United States earn an average hourly wage of approximately $18.66, equating to an annual salary of around $38,800, assuming full-time employment. Entry-level positions may start at lower wages, while experienced workers can earn higher pay.
Benefits of a Packager Job
- Quick entry into the workforce: Many roles require no prior experience or education.
- Steady demand: Warehouses, factories, and shipping centers hire year-round.
- On-the-job training: Learn packing, safety, and inventory skills while working.
- Opportunities for overtime: Extra hours can boost your paycheck.
Packager Interview Questions
Employers for packer or packager jobs want to know if you can follow instructions, work quickly, stay organized, and handle repetitive tasks. They may also ask about physical stamina, attention to detail, and experience in warehouse or production environments. Expect scenario-based questions and ones related to safety and teamwork. Some examples of Interview questions include:
- How do you stay focused during repetitive tasks?
- Can you describe a time you met a tight deadline?
- How do you handle fragile or breakable items when packing?
- What would you do if you noticed a mislabeled package?
- Are you comfortable standing for long hours?
- How do you prioritize tasks during a busy shift?
- Have you used packing equipment or handheld scanners before?
Packager Job Roles We Place
by Industry and Function
Food and Beverage
Food packer: Prepares and seals packaged food products like snacks, produce, or frozen meals. Often works in temperature-controlled environments.
Meat packager: Handles raw or processed meats, wraps products, applies labels, and maintains strict hygiene and safety standards.
Manufacturing
Assembly line packer: Packs finished goods directly off the line, checks for defects, and prepares items for shipment or storage.
Parts packager: Packages mechanical or electronic parts based on size, weight, and shipping requirements. May include sorting and labeling components.
Retail and E-commerce
Warehouse packer: Picks, packs, and labels online or retail orders. Uses handheld scanners to track inventory and confirm accuracy.
Gift packager: Assembles and wraps pre-ordered gift sets, promotional kits, or subscription boxes. May include decorative packing and attention to presentation.
Medical and Pharmaceutical
Medical supply packer: Packages items like syringes, gloves, or surgical kits in sterile or cleanroom conditions. Follows strict quality standards.
Pharmaceutical packager: Packs pills, bottles, or vials into boxes or blister packs while maintaining compliance with labeling and safety regulations.
Logistics and Freight
Shipping packer: Builds pallets, wraps bulk freight, and secures goods for truck or container transport. Works with larger items and uses industrial packing tools.
Export packager: Prepares items for international shipment, using export-grade crates, moisture barriers, and custom labeling based on destination requirements.
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