Production operator vs packaging operator

The differences between production operators and packaging operators can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. Additionally, a production operator has an average salary of $35,185, which is higher than the $34,269 average annual salary of a packaging operator.

The top three skills for a production operator include basic math, math and quality checks. The most important skills for a packaging operator are basic math, math, and GMP.

Production operator vs packaging operator overview

	Production Operator	Packaging Operator
Yearly salary	$35,185	$34,269
Hourly rate	$16.92	$16.48
Growth rate	7%	-
Number of jobs	117,254	85,698
Job satisfaction	-	-
Most common degree	High School Diploma, 37%	High School Diploma, 39%
Average age	43	44
Years of experience	-	-

What does a production operator do?

A production operator is responsible for handling and monitoring manufacturing machines in a factory or similar establishment, ensuring that everything is running smoothly and according to schedule. Aside from assisting with the processing and packaging of goods, a production operator must also conduct necessary inspections to the machine or equipment that they are using to make sure that it is in good condition and is safe to use. Should there be any issues or concerns regarding safety, it is essential to notify a supervisor right away.

What does a packaging operator do?

The primary job of a packaging operator is to take the finished product and ensure that it is packaged based on the company and industry standards. You will be responsible for operating the machinery used in packaging and conducting routine inspection and preventative equipment maintenance. Other duties include product labeling, troubleshooting equipment issues on time to prevent delays, and completing packaging orders on time. As a packaging operator, you are also responsible for ensuring compliance with safety standards and operational policies.

Production operator vs packaging operator salary

Production operators and packaging operators have different pay scales, as shown below.

	Production Operator	Packaging Operator
Average salary	$35,185	$34,269
Salary range	Between $27,000 And $44,000	Between $27,000 And $42,000
Highest paying City	Bellevue, WA	Grand Forks, ND
Highest paying state	Massachusetts	North Dakota
Best paying company	BD	Nestlé
Best paying industry	Manufacturing	Manufacturing

Differences between production operator and packaging operator education

There are a few differences between a production operator and a packaging operator in terms of educational background:

	Production Operator	Packaging Operator
Most common degree	High School Diploma, 37%	High School Diploma, 39%
Most common major	Business	Business
Most common college	-	-

Production operator vs packaging operator demographics

Here are the differences between production operators' and packaging operators' demographics:

	Production Operator	Packaging Operator
Average age	43	44
Gender ratio	Male, 67.7% Female, 32.3%	Male, 59.7% Female, 40.3%
Race ratio	Black or African American, 11.5% Unknown, 4.2% Hispanic or Latino, 17.7% Asian, 7.8% White, 57.8% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.9%	Black or African American, 10.3% Unknown, 3.4% Hispanic or Latino, 19.6% Asian, 7.8% White, 57.7% American Indian and Alaska Native, 1.2%
LGBT Percentage	5%	5%

Differences between production operator and packaging operator duties and responsibilities

Production operator example responsibilities.

Experience following procedures and managing GMP documentation.
Operate stitching machine for all check bindery.
Break down freight onto production line, label/tot, Rf scan guns
Cut and inspect sheets, verify laser etching, and circuit test etched sheets.
Operate CNC machine, parts washer, and quality testing of parts prior to shipping.
Handle daily flow of paper work of production for company's records and for FDA records.

Packaging operator example responsibilities.

Manage the receipt and tracking of control substances as well as the DEA biennial inspection.
Print, inspect and fill iv bags.
Use of calipers and plug gauge for machine measuring.
Print and complete all paperwork according to DEA regulations.
Fill iv bags with solution clean very sanitary place.
Participate in basic ISO training for all hourly and salary employees.

Production operator vs packaging operator skills

Common production operator skills

Basic Math, 7%
Math, 6%
Quality Checks, 5%
Quality Standards, 4%
Hand Tools, 4%
GMP, 4%

Common packaging operator skills

Basic Math, 9%
Math, 8%
GMP, 8%
Quality Checks, 5%
Safety Procedures, 4%
Pallets, 4%

Production Operator vs. similar jobs

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Production and Manufacturing Industry
Production Operator
Production Operator vs Packaging Operator

Updated January 8, 2025

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