As of May 18, 2021, the average salary for a Packaging Machine Operator III in the United States is $49,362 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $24.
However, a Packaging Machine Operator III's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Packaging Machine Operator III's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, education and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Packaging Machine Operator III's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Packaging Machine Operator I | 0-1 years | $38,912 |
| Packaging Machine Operator II | 1-3 years | $44,464 |
| Packaging Machine Operator III | 3-5 years | $49,362 |
| Packaging Supervisor | 5+ years | $84,359 |
| Packaging Manager | 5+ years | $114,143 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Packaging Machine Operator IIIs. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Troubleshooting | 3.68% |
| Product Quality | 2.35% |
| SOP | 1.53% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Troubleshooting
|
$52,817 |
7%
|
|
Communication Skills
|
$50,843 |
3%
|
|
Preventative Maintenance
|
$50,843 |
3%
|
|
Problem Solving
|
$50,843 |
3%
|
|
Continuous Improvement
|
$50,349 |
2%
|
|
Leadership
|
$50,349 |
2%
|
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many Packaging Machine Operator IIIs enter the field with a No Diploma degree, higher education can lead to more specialized and higher-paying roles.
According to our 100% employer-reported salary data, the median salary for a Packaging Machine Operator III with a No Diploma is between $48,409 and $52,084).
Packaging Machine Operator III Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 87.5% |
| High School | 87.5% |
| Associates | 0.0% |
| Bachelors | 12.5% |
| Masters | 0.0% |
| Doctorate | 0.0% |
Understanding how a Packaging Machine Operator III's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on May 18, 2021Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Packaging Machine Operator III, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Machine Operator IV | $64,816 | 31% |
| Machinist IV | $73,255 | 48% |
| CNC Machine Operator III | $71,237 | 44% |
| Packaging Supervisor | $84,359 | 71% |
Salaries for a Packaging Machine Operator III can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $47,491 in 2023 to around $47,039 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Packaging Machine Operator III salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
View More
|
| 2023 | $47,491 |
| 2024 | $47,355 |
| 2025 | $47,039 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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A Packaging Machine Operator III's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, a Packaging Machine Operator III earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Packaging Machine Operator III is $62,260.
The highest pay for Packaging Machine Operator III is $59,403.
The lowest pay for Packaging Machine Operator III is $40,587.
Sets up and operates a packaging machine in accordance with established procedures and guidelines. Fills, secures, and labels containers according to company and/or customer specifications. Verifies goods packaged against package invoices. Reads and interprets blueprints and diagrams to select, position and secure machinery. Adjusts machine settings to complete tasks accurately, according to specifications, and in a timely fashion. Documents inventory number and weight and organizes packages. May make minor repairs to packaging equipment as needed. May have to complete an apprenticeship and/or formal training in area of specialty. Requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager. Works independently within established procedures associated with the specific job function. Has gained proficiency in multiple competencies relevant to the job. Typically requires 3-5 years of related experience.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
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