Packaging Line Associate

Job Summary

The Packaging Line Associate is responsible for preparing, packaging, and labeling metal products for shipment to customers. This role ensures that finished goods are packaged securely, meet quality standards, and are staged for on-time delivery. The Packaging Line Associate works closely with production, quality, and shipping teams to maintain workflow and support customer satisfaction.

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Key Responsibilities

• Package finished metal parts and assemblies according to customer specifications and company standards.
• Operate packaging equipment (shrink wrap, banding, strapping, or crating tools) safely and efficiently.
• Inspect finished products prior to packaging to ensure quality and accuracy.
• Apply appropriate labels, barcodes, or shipping documentation to packages.
• Prepare pallets, crates, or containers for shipments to prevent damage during transport.
• Assist with loading and unloading trucks when needed.
• Maintain accurate packaging and shipping records.
• Keep packaging area clean, organized, and stocked with necessary supplies.
• Follow all company safety policies and procedures.
• Support production and logistics teams with additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• 1–2 years of packaging, shipping, or manufacturing experience preferred.
• Experience in a metal fabrication or industrial setting is desirable.
• Knowledge of packaging techniques, materials, and equipment.
• Ability to safely operate hand tools, power tools, and packaging machinery.
• Attention to detail to ensure accurate labeling and damage-free shipments.
• Ability to read and follow work orders, packaging instructions, and shipping documents.
• Basic math and measurement skills for counting, labeling, and verifying shipments.
• Strong organizational skills for efficient packaging and staging.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Knowledge of safety rules and proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.

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Key Competencies:

Technical Competencies

• Packaging Methods & Materials – Knowledge of protective packaging, crating, banding, shrink wrap, and strapping techniques.
• Equipment Operation – Safe use of packaging tools, machinery, pallet jacks, and (if required) forklifts.
• Labeling & Documentation – Ability to accurately label, barcode, and complete shipping paperwork.
• Product Inspection – Identifies defects, sharp edges, or quality issues before packaging.
• Measurement & Counting – Verifies part counts, dimensions, and packaging requirements.
• Damage Prevention – Ensures products are packed to withstand handling and transportation.
• Safety Practices – Follows PPE rules, safe lifting techniques, and equipment operation standards.

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Workplace Competencies

• Attention to Detail – Ensures correct labeling, counts, and packaging specifications are met.
• Time Management – Packages and stages parts efficiently to meet shipping schedules.
• Organization – Maintains clean, orderly packaging and staging areas.
• Teamwork – Collaborates with production, shipping, and quality teams to complete orders.
• Communication – Clearly reports shortages, packaging supply needs, or shipment concerns.
• Adaptability – Adjusts to changing order volumes, priorities, or customer requirements.

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Behavioral Competencies

• Reliability – Consistent attendance and dependability in meeting daily packaging needs.
• Work Ethic – Demonstrates pride in ensuring customer orders are protected and accurate.
• Safety Mindset – Always prioritizes safe handling and packaging practices.
• Quality Focus – Ensures finished packages meet both company and customer standards.
• Continuous Improvement – Seeks better ways to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance packaging processes.

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Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made in accordance with the ADA.

• Standing/Walking: Must stand in place or walk short distances for 6–8 hours per shift on concrete floors.
• Lifting/Carrying: Frequently lifts and carries parts, packaging materials, and finished products weighing 20–40 lbs; occasional lifting up to 50 lbs.
• Pushing/Pulling: Regular pushing or pulling of carts, bins, and packaging supplies (up to 40–50 lbs of force).
• Reaching/Handling: Frequent reaching, grasping, and handling of parts, boxes, tape dispensers, shrink wrap, and packing tools.
• Repetitive Motions: High frequency use of hands, wrists, and arms for folding, taping, wrapping, labeling, and stacking.
• Bending/Kneeling: Occasional bending, stooping, crouching, or squatting to retrieve parts or package items.
• Vision: Requires close vision and color vision to check labels, packaging quality, and product identification.
• Hearing: Ability to hear verbal instructions, equipment sounds, and safety signals in a moderately noisy shop environment.

Work Environment

• Noise: High noise levels from punch presses and fabrication equipment; hearing protection required.
• Temperature: Exposure to fluctuating seasonal shop temperatures.
• Other: Exposure to sharp edges, lubricants, and metal scrap; personal protective equipment (PPE) required at all times.