Packer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s fast-paced world, the importance of packers in supply chain management has never been more prominent.
As logistics evolve, the demand for skilled hands who can efficiently pack, organize, and ensure the safe transportation of goods increases.
But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a packer?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker trying to understand the essence of this role,
- A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
- Or simply curious about the operational aspects of packing,
You’re in the right place.
Today, we present a customizable packer job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s dive right into it.
Packer Duties and Responsibilities
Packers perform a variety of tasks related to the packing and shipping of goods and products.
They play an essential role in ensuring that items are correctly packed, labelled, and ready for distribution or sale.
The duties and responsibilities of a Packer typically include:
- Inspect and prepare goods for shipment
- Assemble, line, and pad cartons, crates, and containers, using hand tools
- Read and interpret packing orders and lists to determine packing requirements
- Seal and label containers with the appropriate materials
- Ensure packaging quality meets set standards and specifications
- Operate machinery and equipment as required to facilitate packing processes
- Maintain an organized and clean work area
- Perform inventory checks and report any discrepancies
- Adhere to safety procedures and company policies
- Load and unload goods from delivery vehicles
Packer Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are seeking a dedicated and efficient Packer to join our team.
The Packer will be responsible for packing, labeling, and preparing products for shipment.
Packer responsibilities include ensuring items are not damaged during the packing process, maintaining cleanliness of the working area, and adhering to safety regulations.
The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, able to handle physical tasks, and has a proven record of meeting packing targets.
Responsibilities
- Pack, label and seal items in accordance with company procedures
- Inspect items for damage and report any discrepancies
- Track inventory and report any shortages
- Maintain a clean and orderly work area
- Follow health and safety guidelines
- Assist in unloading materials and stocking shelves
- Work cooperatively with the wider warehouse team
- Meet daily packing targets and standards
Qualifications
- Proven experience as a Packer, Warehouse Operative or similar role
- Ability to lift heavy objects and spend the majority of the day standing
- Detail-oriented and able to keep accurate records
- Basic math skills for inventory counts
- Excellent time management skills
- Good communication and teamwork skills
- High school diploma or equivalent
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Employee discount
Additional Information
- Job Title: Packer
- Work Environment: Warehouse setting. This position requires physical activity including lifting heavy objects and standing for long periods.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Warehouse Supervisor or Warehouse Manager.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: $25,000 minimum to $35,000 maximum
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
- Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].
What Does a Packer Do?
Packers, also known as Pick and Packers, work primarily in warehouse and distribution settings for various industries.
Their primary job is to prepare goods for shipment or delivery.
This typically involves selecting items from a warehouse, production plant, or stockroom and packaging them in the proper way to prevent damage during transit.
They use packing materials such as bubble wrap, foam, cardboard boxes, and plastic to protect the goods.
They might use hand tools or machinery to secure items in their packages.
Packers are also responsible for labeling and sorting packages according to their destination, and they often use handheld tracking scanners to ensure the accuracy of inventory.
In some cases, packers also load goods onto delivery vehicles or shipping containers.
They must be careful to distribute weight evenly and secure items to prevent shifting during transportation.
Attention to detail is crucial in this role, as packers must ensure that the right items are sent to the correct locations in a timely manner.
They may also be required to record packing information for future reference and accountability.
Packer Qualifications and Skills
Packers need a combination of physical abilities, attention to detail and understanding of warehouse processes to complete their tasks effectively.
Essential qualifications and skills include:
- Physical strength and stamina to lift, move, and pack heavy objects, as well as the ability to stand for extended periods.
- Proficiency in using packaging tools and machinery, such as shrink-wrapping machines and box cutters.
- Attention to detail to ensure correct items are packed and that they are secured well to prevent damage during transportation.
- Organizational skills to arrange items in an orderly, compact manner within the package, maximizing space and maintaining product safety.
- Basic inventory management skills to assist in tracking items that have been packed and those pending packing.
- Teamwork skills to work effectively with other packers, supervisors, and warehouse staff in a cooperative environment.
- Awareness of safety procedures to prevent accidents and injuries in the warehouse.
- Basic literacy and numeracy skills for reading packing instructions and counting inventory.
Packer Experience Requirements
Packers often start their careers with little to no experience, as the technical skills necessary for the job can typically be learned on the job.
Many companies provide on-the-job training to new hires, where they gain practical experience in packaging, shipping, and inventory management.
Entry-level packers are usually expected to have basic literacy and numeracy skills to read packing orders and keep accurate records.
Experience in a warehouse or manufacturing environment can be beneficial but is not always required.
Candidates with 1 to 2 years of experience as a packer may have additional responsibilities such as operating packaging machinery, training new hires, or overseeing the packing process to ensure efficiency and accuracy.
Those with more than 3 years of experience often have a solid understanding of inventory management systems and shipping procedures.
They may be considered for supervisory or managerial roles within the packing department.
Packers with 5 years or more of experience are usually highly efficient and knowledgeable in their role and may have proven themselves capable of leading a team, managing complex logistics, and ensuring that all packing procedures are followed to maintain the quality and safety of products.
Packer Education and Training Requirements
Packers typically require a high school diploma or equivalent education level.
While no formal education is required for most packing jobs, training is usually provided on the job to ensure the packer understands the specific packing techniques and procedures of the company.
This on-the-job training also includes safety regulations, machinery operation and quality control practices.
While not a requirement, courses in supply chain management or logistics could be beneficial for career advancement in this field.
Physical fitness and ability to lift heavy objects are crucial for this role, as packing often involves moving and organizing goods.
Some companies may also require packers to have a valid driver’s license if their duties involve transporting goods.
Good organizational skills, attention to detail and the ability to work quickly and efficiently are often sought after in candidates for a packer role.
Packer Salary Expectations
The average salary for a Packer is $12.80 (USD) per hour.
This wage may fluctuate based on factors such as the individual’s experience, the location of the job, and the specific company for which they work.
Packer Job Description FAQs
What skills does a Packer need?
Packers need good physical stamina and strength, as they often need to lift and move heavy items.
They should also have good hand-eye coordination for precise packing.
Attention to detail is essential to ensure that orders are accurately filled and that products are not damaged during packing and shipping.
Basic math skills are also useful to ensure the correct number of items are packed.
Do Packers need any specific qualifications?
Packers do not necessarily need any specific qualifications as on-the-job training is usually provided.
However, a high school diploma is often a minimum requirement.
Prior experience in a warehouse or manufacturing environment could be beneficial.
Some roles may require familiarity with certain packing machinery or inventory software.
What should you look for in a Packer resume?
A Packer resume should demonstrate experience in a similar role, as well as familiarity with common packing procedures and equipment.
Attention to detail, ability to follow instructions, and good organizational skills are also important.
Physical strength and endurance could be seen as a plus, especially for jobs involving heavy lifting.
What qualities make a good Packer?
A good Packer is reliable, careful, and detail-oriented, ensuring that goods are packed accurately and securely.
They should be able to work quickly and efficiently, often under time pressure, and should be comfortable performing repetitive tasks.
Physical strength and stamina are also key qualities, as Packers may be required to lift and move heavy items regularly.
Is it challenging to find Packers?
The difficulty in hiring Packers can depend on the job market and location.
While there is often a high turnover in packing jobs, there is usually also a steady supply of workers looking for this type of work.
However, finding experienced Packers who are efficient, reliable, and able to work quickly can sometimes be a challenge.
Conclusion
There you have it!
Today, we’ve laid bare the nuts and bolts of what it really means to be a packer.
Surprised?
It’s not just about boxing items.
It’s about building the foundation of supply chain efficiency, one package at a time.
Armed with our comprehensive packer job description template and realistic examples, you’re ready to take the next step.
But why pause at just that?
Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your essential tool for creating precision-tailored job listings or sprucing up your resume to absolute perfection.
Remember:
Every box packed is a step towards operational excellence.
Let’s build that efficient future. Together.
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