Packer

Your Fit

Income

$36K

Preparation

Some

Growth

-1.0%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Packer?

A Packer is responsible for preparing items for shipping or storage, ensuring that products are securely and efficiently packed. This role involves wrapping items, placing them in containers, and labeling packages for distribution.

Sample job titles:

Bagger, Packager, Packer, Selector Packer

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Packer.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Packer earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) in 2024 was...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$27K per year	$32K per year	$36K per year	$41K per year	$46K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $14K below the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Packer do?

Work environment

Packers typically work in warehouses, distribution centers, or manufacturing facilities. The environment can be fast-paced, requiring standing for long periods and handling various items. Shift work is common, and the job may include working in teams or independently.

Quick task list

Wraps and packs products for shipping or storage.
Labels and seals containers and packages.
Inspects items for defects or damage before packing.
Keeps records of items packed and materials used.
Complies with safety standards and handling guidelines.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Fragile Item Packaging: Specializing in packing delicate items that require extra care.
Food Packaging: Focusing on packaging food items following health and safety regulations.
Industrial Packaging: Handling and packing heavy or large industrial products.
E-commerce Fulfillment: Packing products specifically for online retail orders.
Custom Packaging Solutions: Developing specialized packaging for unique or non-standard items.

Description

Packers play a crucial role in supply chains, ensuring that products reach their destination in perfect condition. They must be adept at using various packaging materials and techniques to protect items during transit. This includes understanding the best ways to wrap different types of products, from fragile goods to bulky industrial equipment.

Attention to detail is key, as packers must follow specific instructions regarding packaging and labeling. They also need to work efficiently to meet shipping deadlines while ensuring the safety and quality of packaged goods. The ability to quickly adapt to different products and packing requirements is essential, especially in facilities that handle a wide range of items.

Physical stamina is important for this role, as it often involves lifting, bending, and repetitive motions. Packers must also be mindful of safety procedures, particularly when handling heavy items or operating machinery like pallet jacks or shrink wrap machines.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Contributing to the efficient operation of supply chains.
The hands-on nature of the work and the satisfaction of seeing the immediate results of your efforts.
Opportunities to work with a variety of products and packaging technologies.

You might make a good Packer if you are...

Detail-oriented and able to follow specific packing instructions.
Physically fit and capable of handling various items.
Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment.
Able to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
Interested in learning different packaging techniques and tools.

Pros:

Steady employment opportunities in various industries.
The satisfaction of physical, hands-on work.
Opportunities for overtime and shift flexibility.

Cons:

Physically demanding with potential for repetitive strain injuries.
Work environment may be noisy and busy.
Repetitive nature of the tasks and potential for monotonous work routines.

How to become a Packer

Typical education

Generally, a high school diploma or equivalent is sufficient for this occupation. On-the-job training is common, providing specific knowledge about products, packaging techniques, and equipment.

High school preparation

Courses:

Physical education classes to build stamina and physical fitness.
Technical education classes for understanding basic machinery and tools.
Mathematics for inventory tracking and measurements.
Art classes for developing an eye for detail and design, useful in custom packaging.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Participation in team sports or physical clubs to build stamina.
Volunteering or part-time jobs in retail or warehouses to gain experience in handling products.
Clubs or activities that involve organization and attention to detail.

Preparation after high school

Vocational training in logistics or warehouse operations.
On-the-job training or apprenticeships in packaging or distribution centers.
Short courses in inventory management or safety standards.

More resources

Material Handling Industry of America (MHIA) - Provides resources and education on material handling, including packaging.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) - Offers guidelines and resources for workplace safety.
Packaging Corporation of America (PCA) - A resource for insights into industrial packaging.
Institute of Packaging Professionals (IoPP) - Offers education and certification programs in packaging.

Similar careers

Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.