Packager/Packer

Chicago, United States
Packager/Packer
Company
Lifeway Foods Inc
Location
Morton Grove, IL
Job type
Full-time
Salary
13 an hour
Via
Adzuna
Apply on
Job description
SUMMARY:

The packaging worker is responsible for accurately prepare and ship finished products. You must ensure everything is in order prior to shipping and maintain room cleanliness. Maintain production and sanitary conditions by removing product from conveyor, inspecting product, hand packing into cartons, and performing described duties.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

§ Ensures product protection by checking package integrity for good seals, proper price, code date, tape color, and product quality according to standard procedures.

§ Works in a team to pack product by assembling boxes, taking the product off automated conveyor line, taping boxes and placing on skid; pull sealed cases off automated packaging lines.

§ Ensures that product is free from contamination by following rules of good manufacturing practices for disease control, personal practices, and uniform policy

§ Stack sealed cases on skids according to stacking procedures under product pallet pattern.

§ Recognizes problems; shuts down machine and/or alerts supervisor or manager according to standard procedures.

§ Ensure that the proper packaging materials are used for each product being produced.

§ Prepares cases for use on the next shift by labeling information on the side of the box to include brand name, quantity in case, weight, and product type.

§ Maintain communication with other departments, management and employees and notify them of any problems and/or concerns that may restrict the efficiency of production

§ Utilizing continuous improvement mindset, assist in identifying opportunities to improve processes.

§ Maintain a clean, sanitary and safe work area.

§ Must be willing to work flexible hours including overtime, weekends and holidays

§ Follows facilities policies and Standard Operating Procedures to ensure food safety and quality.

§ Other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS:

§ Ability to be on your feet all day.

§ Strong listening skills

§ Ability to lift 30lbs

§ Adequate math skills

This summary should not be construed to be all inclusive lists of all responsibilities, skills, efforts, or working condition associated with a job. While the description is intended to be an accurate reflection of the job requirements, management reserves the right to modify, add, or remove duties and to assign other duties as necessary Lifeway Foods, Inc. is a growing Chicago based beverage manufacturer with over 25 years of experience. We are an industry leader in production of high quality Kefir. We are an equal opportunity employer and offer a competitive benefits package. Visit us at www.lifewaykefir.com

Frequently asked questions

Quick answers about Packing Jobs in United States

Q
What is the median hourly wage for packing jobs in the United States in 2026?
As per the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median hourly wage for packers and packagers, hand (SOC 53-7062) is $18.50 as of May 2026 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics. Entry-level packing jobs start at $15.20 per hour nationally, while top earners make $24.10 per hour. Annual median pay equates to $38,480 for full-time workers.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Q
What work visa options exist for international job seekers applying to packing jobs in the US in 2026?
USCIS offers H-2B visas for temporary non-agricultural packing jobs, with a FY2026 cap of 66,000 base visas plus 64,716 supplemental visas allocated by March 2026. Employers must file Form I-129 at least 75 days before start date and prove no US workers available via DOL's permanent labor certification process. Visa valid up to 12 months, extendable to 3 years.
Source: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
Q
What education or experience is required to qualify for entry-level packing jobs in the US?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics states no formal educational credential is required for packers and packagers, hand, with most workers having a high school diploma or equivalent. On-the-job training lasts less than 1 month, and no prior experience is needed for 70% of entry-level positions as of 2026 projections. Physical ability to lift 50 pounds is typically required.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Q
What documents are needed to apply for packing jobs in the US, and how do I complete the hiring process?
For legal employment, complete Form I-9 with proof of identity and work authorization like passport, driver's license, or SSN card within 3 days of hire, as required by USCIS. Submit resume highlighting any warehouse experience to employers, and DOL recommends using America's Job Center for free application assistance. Background checks are common for warehouse packing roles, taking 2-5 days.
Source: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services