Packaging and filling machine operators and tenders
SOC Code: 51-9111Also known as:
Ampoule Filler, Ampoule Sealer, Apple Press Operator, Assembly Line Worker, Assembly Person
Median Annual Salary
$40,900
+4.5% growth (2024-2034)
45K
Openings/Year
381K
Current Jobs
What Packaging and filling machine operators and tenders Do
Operate or tend machines to prepare industrial or consumer products for storage or shipment. Includes cannery workers who pack food products.
💰 Salary
$40,900
Median annual wage (2024)
📈 Job Growth
+4.5%
Faster than average
🎓 Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Typical entry-level requirement
🚀 Annual Openings
45K
Projected average per year
📚 On-the-Job Training
Moderate-term on-the-job training
Expected training period
Employment Projections (2024-2034)
Current Employment (2024)
381,200
Projected Employment (2034)
398,200
Related Careers
Extruding, forming, pressing, and compacting machine setters, operators, and tenders
$45,130 •
+2.0% growth
Adhesive bonding machine operators and tenders
$45,210 •
+1.0% growth
Paper goods machine setters, operators, and tenders
$49,390 •
-6.3% growth
Machine feeders and offbearers
$39,700 •
-13.0% growth
Packers and packagers, hand
$35,580 •
-5.4% growth
Top Skills Required
Operations Monitoring
Monitoring
Active Listening
Coordination
Operation and Control
Daily Tasks & Responsibilities
- Attach identification labels to finished packaged items, or cut stencils and stencil information on containers, such as lot numbers or shipping destinations.
- 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.
- Observe machine operations to ensure quality and conformity of filled or packaged products to standards.
- Remove finished packaged items from machine and separate rejected items.
- Monitor the production line, watching for problems such as pile-ups, jams, or glue that isn't sticking properly.
- Inspect and remove defective products and packaging material.
- Start machine by engaging controls.
- Tend or operate machine that packages product.
- Clean, oil, and make minor adjustments or repairs to machinery and equipment, such as opening valves or setting guides.
Technology & Tools
📚 Entry-Level Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Most common requirement
🎯 Recommended Education
High School Diploma
O*NET recommended level
College Rankings
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much do packaging and filling machine operators and tenders make?
The median annual salary for packaging and filling machine operators and tenders is $40,900.
What education do packaging and filling machine operators and tenders need?
Most packaging and filling machine operators and tenders positions require a high school diploma or equivalent.
Is becoming packaging and filling machine operators and tenders a good career choice?
Packaging and filling machine operators and tenders is projected to see +4.5% job growth from 2024 to 2034,
which is about average for all occupations. With approximately 45,300 job openings expected annually,
there are good opportunities for those entering the field.
What are the best colleges for packaging and filling machine operators and tenders?
The best colleges offer strong programs in related fields with experienced faculty and industry connections.
What other job titles are similar to packaging and filling machine operators and tenders?
Packaging and filling machine operators and tenders may also be known as: Ampoule Filler, Ampoule Sealer, Apple Press Operator, Assembly Line Worker, Assembly Person, Assembly Worker, Auto Roller, Automatic Cigar Wrapper Tender, Automatic Packer Operator, Bag Bundler, Bag Loader Machine Operator, Bagging Machine Operator, Baler, Baler Operator, Baling Machine Tender, Bandage Wrapping Machine Operator, Bander, Barrel Filler, Base Filler, Base-Filler Operator.
These titles often refer to similar roles with varying responsibilities or specializations.