Industrial Packer in Georgia Career Overview

As an Industrial Packer, you play a vital role in the manufacturing and distribution sectors. Your primary responsibility involves preparing products for transport and storage, ensuring they are safely and securely packaged to prevent damage during shipping.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Packaging: You will correctly package various items, including machinery parts, consumer goods, and food products, adhering to safety and quality standards.
  • Quality Control: You will inspect products for defects, ensuring all items meet company and industry guidelines before they leave the facility.
  • Inventory Management: Your duties may involve tracking inventory levels, organizing products, and preparing them for delivery, which helps maintain an efficient workflow.
  • Team Collaboration: Working closely with other team members, you will contribute to a streamlined packing and shipping process, meeting production deadlines collaboratively.

The position of Industrial Packer is essential in maintaining the flow of goods in supply chains. Your work ensures that products are dispatched in a timely manner, thus enhancing customer satisfaction and efficiency in distribution channels. Your attention to detail and commitment to quality are instrumental in supporting the overall operational success of your organization.

Industrial Packer Salary in Georgia

Annual Median: $38,200
Hourly Median: $18.37

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become an Industrial Packer in Georgia

To become an industrial packer, you should consider the following educational qualifications and training programs:

  • High School Diploma or GED: This is the minimum requirement for entry-level positions in industrial packing. It provides foundational knowledge in basic math, reading, and writing.

  • Associate Degree: While not always required, obtaining an associate degree in a relevant field can enhance your qualifications. Consider programs such as:

    • Packaging Science: This program focuses on the principles of package design, materials, and production processes, which are essential for understanding industrial packing operations.
    • Manufacturing Engineering Technology: This degree provides insights into manufacturing processes and systems, which can be beneficial for those aiming to work in industrial settings.
    • Industrial Technology: This program covers various aspects of industrial operations, including production systems and quality control, equipping you with knowledge applicable to packing roles.
    • Industrial Production Technologies: This degree focuses on manufacturing processes and technologies, emphasizing the production aspect closely related to packing.
    • Plastics and Polymer Engineering Technology: Understanding materials like plastics can be particularly relevant, as these materials are widely used in packaging.
  • On-the-Job Training: Many employers provide training on-site to familiarize you with specific packing equipment, safety procedures, and company protocols.

Consider pursuing certifications related to packaging and manufacturing, as they can further enhance your expertise and career prospects.

Best Schools to become a Industrial Packer in Georgia 2024

Olympic College

Bremerton, WA

In-State Tuition:$4,197
Out-of-State Tuition:$9,465
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:31%
Total Enrollment:4,905

John C Calhoun State Community College

Tanner, AL

In-State Tuition:$3,750
Out-of-State Tuition:$7,500
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:36%
Total Enrollment:8,163

SOWELA Technical Community College

Lake Charles, LA

In-State Tuition:$3,335
Out-of-State Tuition:$3,335
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:40%
Total Enrollment:3,268

Ivy Tech Community College

Indianapolis, IN

In-State Tuition:$4,487
Out-of-State Tuition:$8,777
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:31%
Total Enrollment:89,705

Lone Star College System

The Woodlands, TX

In-State Tuition:$5,136
Out-of-State Tuition:$6,456
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:18%
Total Enrollment:68,415

Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College

Perkinston, MS

In-State Tuition:$3,300
Out-of-State Tuition:$6,600
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:44%
Total Enrollment:7,845
Industrial Packer Job Description:
  • Operate or tend machines to prepare industrial or consumer products for storage or shipment.
  • Includes cannery workers who pack food products.

Industrial Packer Required Skills and Competencies in Georgia

  • Attention to Detail: You must be able to accurately follow instructions and specifications to ensure that products are packed correctly and meet quality standards.

  • Manual Dexterity: The ability to use your hands skillfully is essential for handling various packing materials and equipment effectively.

  • Physical Stamina: This role often requires standing for extended periods, lifting heavy items, and maintaining a good level of physical fitness.

  • Time Management: You need to efficiently manage your time to meet production deadlines while maintaining quality standards.

  • Communication Skills: Clear communication with team members and supervisors is important to coordinate tasks and address any packing issues that may arise.

  • Problem-Solving Skills: You should be capable of identifying packing challenges and finding effective solutions quickly to avoid disruptions in the workflow.

  • Teamwork: Working well with your colleagues and contributing to a positive team environment is vital in a warehouse or production setting.

  • Organization: You need to keep your work area tidy and organized to facilitate efficient packing and minimize mistakes.

  • Safety Awareness: Familiarity with safety procedures and protocols is necessary to ensure a safe working environment, protecting both yourself and your coworkers.

  • Basic Math Skills: Being able to perform simple mathematical calculations helps with inventory counts, measurements, and verifying quantities during the packing process.

Job Market and Opportunities for Industrial Packer in Georgia

The job market for Industrial Packers in Georgia is characterized by a steady demand driven by the growth of manufacturing and logistics sectors. As industries expand and adapt to changing consumer needs, the role of Industrial Packers becomes increasingly vital in ensuring products are handled efficiently and safely.

  • Demand: There is a consistent demand for Industrial Packers across various industries including food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods. As companies ramp up production to meet consumer demand, the need for skilled packers to manage packaging operations effectively remains strong.

  • Growth Potential: The employment outlook for Industrial Packers is positive, with job growth anticipated as businesses continue to automate and expand their operations. Innovations in technology within the manufacturing processes may also create new roles, allowing packers to take on more varied responsibilities, which enhances their career prospects.

  • Geographical Hotspots:

    • Metro Atlanta: This area serves as a major hub for logistics and manufacturing firms, featuring numerous warehouses and distribution centers. The proximity to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport provides significant advantages for packing operations connected to global supply chains.
    • Savannah: Known for its port, Savannah is a critical location for shipping and receiving goods, which elevates the role of Industrial Packers in the supply chain. The city is experiencing growth in various industries, making it a prime location for job opportunities.
    • Augusta: This area is witnessing an uptick in manufacturing jobs, particularly in sectors such as healthcare and electronics. The need for packing specialists in these industries contributes to local job availability.

Considering the dynamic nature of the marketplace in Georgia, staying informed about industry trends and potential employers can help you capitalize on the job opportunities available in the Industrial Packing field.

Additional Resources To Help You Become an Industrial Packer in Georgia

  • Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

    • Website: osha.gov
    • Provides guidelines and regulations for workplace safety, which are particularly relevant for industrial packers.
  • Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)

    • Website: bls.gov/ooh
    • Offers information on job outlook, salary expectations, and employment conditions for industrial packers.
  • National Packaging Association (NPA)

  • Georgia Department of Labor

    • Website: dol.georgia.gov
    • Offers valuable information on job openings, training programs, and workforce development in Georgia.
  • Trade and Industrial Education Program - Georgia Department of Education

    • Website: gadoe.org
    • Provides education and training resources for those interested in careers in industrial sectors, including packaging.
  • Institute of Packaging Professionals (IoPP)

    • Website: iopp.org
    • Professional organization offering certifications, educational resources, and networking opportunities for packaging professionals.
  • Manufacturers Association of Georgia

    • Website: mfgga.org
    • A network that supports manufacturers in Georgia, offering resources and training that may aid industrial packers.
  • LinkedIn Learning

    • Website: linkedin.com/learning
    • Offers courses related to packaging techniques, safety practices, and supply chain management that could benefit industrial packers.
  • Various Vocational Schools in Georgia

  • CareerOneStop

    • Website: careeronestop.org
    • A resource for career exploration, including job descriptions and pathways in industrial packing and related fields.
  • Books and Publications

    • The Packaging and Technology of Foods by Gordon L. Robertson.
    • Fundamentals of Packaging Technology by Daniel E. H. Adolph. These books provide insights into packaging materials, processes, and innovations in the industry.

Utilizing these resources will enhance your knowledge and support your career development as an industrial packer in Georgia.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Industrial Packer in Georgia

  • What does an Industrial Packer do?
    An Industrial Packer is responsible for packaging products for shipment, ensuring that items are protected during transit. This includes labeling, wrapping, and preparing products according to company standards and regulations.

  • What skills are required to become an Industrial Packer?
    Key skills for an Industrial Packer include attention to detail, physical stamina, manual dexterity, and the ability to follow instructions. Basic math skills for measuring and counting products are also beneficial.

  • What type of education is needed for a career in industrial packing?
    Most positions require a high school diploma or equivalent. On-the-job training is common, where individuals learn the specific packing processes and safety procedures relevant to their employer.

  • What are the typical work hours for an Industrial Packer?
    Industrial Packers may work full-time or part-time, with hours that can vary based on the employer's needs. This can include day, night, or weekend shifts.

  • Is physical fitness important in this role?
    Yes, physical fitness is important as the job often requires standing for long periods, lifting heavy items, and performing repetitive tasks.

  • What safety measures should Industrial Packers be aware of?
    Industrial Packers should be knowledgeable about proper lifting techniques, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and safety protocols related to the machinery and equipment they may use.

  • What industries employ Industrial Packers?
    Industrial Packers are employed in various industries, including manufacturing, warehousing, food processing, and retail. Opportunities can be found in both large corporations and smaller businesses.

  • What is the job outlook for Industrial Packers in Georgia?
    The job outlook for Industrial Packers is generally positive, with consistent demand in logistics and production sectors. Employment opportunities may vary by region and seasonal trends.

  • Can I advance my career as an Industrial Packer?
    Yes, there are opportunities for advancement. With experience, you may move into supervisory roles, quality control, or specialized packing positions. Additional training or certifications can also enhance your career prospects.

  • What is the average salary for an Industrial Packer in Georgia?
    As of 2023, the average salary for an Industrial Packer in Georgia generally ranges from $25,000 to $35,000 annually, though this can vary based on the employer, location, and experience level.

  • Are there any certifications that can enhance my qualifications?
    While not required, certifications in safety protocols, forklift operation, or specialized packaging techniques can improve your qualifications and make you more competitive in the job market.