The best-paying jobs in containers/packaging include director of products, director of operations, and director of sales. This sector offers many high-paying jobs that you can apply for with relevant skills and expertise. The containers/packaging industry is quite lucrative, thus creating a high demand for jobs in the sector.
Experts in this field can either launch their own firms or get employment with large international companies. This creates multiple career paths in the sector. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts increased employment in the container and packaging sector.
What Do Containers/Packaging Job Pay?
The containers/packaging industry has an average annual salary of $84,659, with the lowest salary ranging from $30,000 – $50,000 and the highest paying salary being $95,950 and above.
In the containers/packaging industry, pay rates vary widely. Account managers earn between $30,000 – $50,000 annually, while packaging engineers make $80,000 – $120,000 every year. Product directors earn the highest salary, making an average of $221,129annually.
20 of the Best Paying Jobs in Containers/Packaging
The product director manages the design teams throughout the product development process and ensures the availability of all production tools. They are the most senior employee with a heavier workload and receive a high salary. This work requires product management, planning, critical thinking, communication, and time-management skills.
Employers require candidates to have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in product engineering or a related field. This job will grow by 3% from 2021 to 2031.
2. Director of Operations
Average Salary $195,364
The director of operations manages the daily activities in all departments of a company. They implement policies that improve day-to-day operations and review and evaluate production routines. Their work makes the company coordinated and progressive, which is why they earn high.
The role requires a wide range of skills, including innovative, communication, analytical, managerial, and problem-solving abilities. Employers require a bachelor’s degree in business administration or management. The job of a director of operations will grow by 6% from 2018 to 2028.
3. Director of Sales
Average Salary: $192,813
The director of sales manages all sales activities in the container/packaging industry and also creates plans to increase sales. They make sales and profit for the company, which is why they earn high. The role requires skills such as excellent communication, negotiation, the ability to motivate team members, and marketing and sales abilities.
Employers require a bachelor’s degree and a master’s in marketing, business administration, or a related field. Employment in this sector will grow by 7% from 2016 to 2026.
4. Director of Packaging Development
Average Salary: $175,000
Packaging development is one of the best career paths in containers/packaging. They develop and implement company strategies, policies, and procedures. Other duties include designing and testing new ideas, to ensure they meet quality standards.
Their work influences the company’s profit. Package developers require quality skills like leadership, project management, and expertise in packaging design.
You need a bachelor’s degree in packaging or mechanical engineering and a certificate in any related field to get this role. The job will grow at a rate of 8% from 2018 to 2028.
5. Global Director
Global Director
Average Salary: $159,435
Global directors manage every branch the company owns, supervise all the departments, and monitor overall manufacturing operations. Their job keeps the various outlets together and this is why their salary is high. A wide range of skills needed for this role includes managerial, effective communication, and interpersonal abilities.
A global director must have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in engineering. Relevant work experience of 5 years in packaging or a related field might be required by some employers. The employment job rate is will grow by 4.6% from 2019 to 2029.
6. Director of Technology
Average salary: $141,614
The director of technology manages the technology needs of a company and makes necessary upgrades. They also ensure the operating systems are up and running in an industry. Understanding computers, security, telecommunications, databases, and storage systems, and strong interpersonal and communication abilities are needed for this role.
Their salary is high because they keep the company up-to-date on technological developments. Employers require a bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related field for this job. The director of technology role will grow by 16% from 2021 to 2031.
7. Senior Packaging Engineer
Average Salary: $125,000
Senior packaging engineers work on package solutions for their companies. They ensure their ideas and designs meet industry standards, specifications, and customer needs. These duties make the senior packaging engineering role earn high.
Professional understanding of packaging materials, product design, problem-solving, technical, engineering, and communication skills are needed for this role. To become a senior packaging engineer, a degree in mechanical engineering and certification in any packaging course is needed. The employment growth rate for senior packaging engineers is 4% in ten years.
8. Research and Development Manager
Average Salary: $125,000
Research and development managers create new packaging solutions through tests and series of research. They work with other teams to bring new solutions to the industry. These responsibilities earn them a high salary.
Research and development managers possess a wide range of skills from research to development, project management, and problem-solving abilities. Employers require a bachelor’s degree in material science or any related field. Some require a masters in these courses. The job is will grow at a rate of 7% from 2021 to 2031.
9. Freight Shipping Agents
Average Salary: $123,558
Freight shipping agents transport goods by air, sea, or land in the containers/packaging industry. They earn high due to their delicate role to ensure that goods are delivered to their destination. Freight shipping agents know transport regulations and logistics networks and have good communication skills.
Employers require a degree in business administration or a related field and an associate degree in project management. The job will grow at a rate of 6.8% from 2018-2028.
Supply chain managers handle the distribution line in a containers/packaging company and ensure packages are delivered timely. Their salary is high because they make the supply process easier for employers. This role requires management, communication, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.
A supply chain manager must have a bachelor’s degree in sales, business administration, or supply chain management. The job will grow at a rate of 6% from 2020 to 2030.
11. Development Manager
Average Salary: $120,000
The development manager oversees the packaging solutions as instructed by the director. Development managers earn high because they monitor the packaging process from idea to implementation. They must possess good leadership, project management, and technical abilities.
Many employers require a bachelor’s degree in packaging engineering and business management. This role has a growth rate of 6% from 2020 to 2030.
12. Sales Manager
Average Salary: $120,000
Sales managers handle sales in containers/packaging companies. They develop sales strategies, find customers, and manage relationships with existing clients. They generate revenue for their companies which earns them a high salary. This job requires a wide range of skills which includes communication, negotiation, understanding of the customers’ needs, and marketing abilities.
Sales managers must have a minimum of a high school diploma in commerce. Some employers require a bachelor’s degree in business administration or marketing for this role. This job market outlook is positive and has a growth rate of 10% from 2021 to 2031.
13. Regulatory Compliance Manager
Average Salary: $110,000
Regulatory compliance managers ensure packaging companies follow laid down requirements such as safety and environmental regulations. They make sure the company keeps up with regulatory policies which keep the brand safe and successful. These responsibilities earn them a high salary.
Regulatory compliance managers possess leadership skills as well as knowledge of regulations in the containers/packaging industry. They managers must have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in business studies or any related field. Some employers require a master’s degree. This role has a positive growth outlook and has a growth rate of 4.3% from 2021-2031.
14. Sustainability Manager
Average Salary: $105,000
A sustainability manager works with designers, packaging engineers, and other workers to ensure they sustain the company’s system. This role earns them a high salary. Skills needed for this role range from an eye for detail, to teamwork, and strong communication abilities.
Employers require a degree in sustainability, environmental science, packaging engineering, or any related field. Relevant work experience may be required. The job will grow at a rate of 7% from 2020 to 2030.
15. Equipment Engineer
Equipment Engineer
Average Salary: $95,000
Equipment engineers install and maintain packaging systems. They earn a high salary because they ensure the working tools are efficient and effective. Equipment engineers possess a wide range of skills ranging from understanding technical principles to analytical capacity and problem-solving abilities.
Employers require a bachelor’s degree in packaging or mechanical engineering or any other related field. The role will grow at a rate of 5% from 2021 to 2031.
16. Warehouse Managers
Average Salary: $90,000
Warehouse managers oversee the operations of warehouses and the distribution of products to ensure consumers receive them. They earn a high salary for the effective management of the company. To get this role, you must know warehouse operations, learn data analysis, and make strategic decisions.
Warehouse managers must have a minimum high school diploma or a GED. Some employers require a bachelor’s degree or an associate degree in logistics or a related field. The job has a growth forecast of 4% from 2019 to 2029.
17. Sales Representative
Average Salary: $90,000
Sales representatives sell the finished products and solutions to customers. They also maintain customer relationships and also come up with new marketing plans. Sales reps earn a high salary because they generate revenue for the brand.
You must possess strong negotiations, good selling, knowledge of consumers’ wants, and communication abilities. Employers require a bachelor’s degree in business administration, marketing, or any other related field. This job will grow at a rate of 5% from 2020 to 2030.
18. Packaging Engineer
Average Salary: $85,745
A packaging engineer design and develop cost-effective and functional packaging containers for different products. They ensure goods are packaged to save costs for the company which is why they earn high. The skills necessary for this role are creativity, project management, and communication skills.
Packaging engineers must have a minimum high school diploma. Employers require a bachelor’s degree in packing science, engineering, logistics, or food science. They must have 5 years of experience in consumer packaging. The job outlook for packaging engineering is positive and will grow at a rate of 8% from 2018 to 2028.
19. Packaging Operator
Average Salary: $85,000
Packaging operators handle machines used to package products in containers/packaging companies. The operators earn a high salary because they ensure the machines used in packaging are maintained and monitored well for effectiveness. The company will not have good tools to work with if they are not available.
This responsibility is why they earn high. Workers in this sector possess good writing skills, knowledge of safety standards, inventory management, and physical fitness. Packaging operators must have a minimum of a high school diploma or GED certification. This job outlook is positive and will grow at the rate of 4% from 2018 to 2028.
Materials specialists choose and assess the best packaging materials for different products. They ensure the right materials are used for the right products which are why they earn a high salary. Materials specialists must be good in packaging, material testing, and technical, problem-solving, and analytical skills.
You must have a minimum of a high school diploma for this role. Some employers require a bachelor’s degree in material engineering or any other related field. This job is expected to grow at a rate of 5% from 2021 – 2031.
5 Best paying entry-level jobs in container/packaging
Materials personnel negotiate prices and purchase packaging equipment from sellers. This role requires strong problem analysis, planning and coordination, excellent communication, and negotiation skills.
Employers require a degree in business and materials management. They must also have two years of experience in packaging materials buying. The job is expected to grow at a rate of 6% from 2021 to 2031.
2. Marketing Coordinator
Annual Salary: $50,000
Marketing coordinators promote and advertise materials and products to consumers. They possess communication, time management, and analytical skills.
Marketing coordinators must have an associate’s or a bachelor’s degree in marketing, design, or any related field for this role. The job is expected to grow at a rate of 10% from 2021 to 2031.
3. Shipping and Receiving Clerk
Annual Salary: $35,000
Shipping and receiving clerks manage the flow of goods in and out of a warehouse and also ensure that products are shipped efficiently. They possess customer knowledge, communication, detail orientation, and packing skills.
Many employers require a high school diploma for an entry-level role. Shipping and receiving clerk job is expected to grow by 0.01% from 2018 to 2028.
4. Production Assistant
Annual Salary: $35,000
Production assistants support the production process. They possess a variety of skills, such as organization, teamwork, time management, and customer service abilities.
A high school diploma or GED is required for this entry-level role. The job is expected to grow at a rate of 4% from 2018 to 2028.
They are responsible for production lines, machinery operation, and packaging of products efficiently. Line operators must be knowledgeable in mathematics and have eyes for details.
Entry-level positions may require only a high school diploma. The job is expected to grow at a rate of 4% from 2018 to 2028.
How to Get a High-Paying Job in Containers/Packaging
If you’re interested in pursuing a high-paying career in containers/packaging, you can follow these steps below to increase your chances of success.
6 actionable steps you can take to get a high-paying job in the containers/packaging industry
1. Get a degree and the necessary skills needed
Ensure you have the education and skills qualifications needed to get a high-paying job in containers/packaging. Research the degrees and skills required for the role you want and take courses if necessary.
2. Gain Experience
To gain the necessary experience for a high-paying job in containers/packaging, consider internships, entry-level roles, and volunteer opportunities. This will show your employers that you are capable.
3. Networking
This is a good step in getting a high-paying job in the containers/packaging industry. Attend trade shows, conferences, and other events in your area to network with industry experts. You may get the opportunity to showcase your skills and knowledge. This will help you keep updated on trends in the field, get informed on job openings, and get referrals.
4. Know what you want
To secure a high-paying job in containers/packaging, you need to know what you want to be able to search for jobs. Tailor your resumes and cover letters to match the job you want. Highlight your expertise and experiences and always search for the specific role you want. Submit your resume and prepare for an interview.
5. Target high-paying industries
When looking for the best-paying jobs in the containers/packaging industry, you should target industries that pay well. Make research to know which companies are most profitable. Make a list of them and start applying.
6. Research and evaluate salaries and benefits
When you find the best-paying companies in container/packaging, research the salary and benefits packages. Compare salaries with Payscale to get an idea of the value of your job. There’s a need to evaluate the benefits offered by your employer such as bonuses, health insurance, retirement plans, and vacation time.
Top 5 Skills Needed to Get a High Paying Job in Containers/Packaging
The containers/packaging industry requires a wide range of skills for employees working in the sector.
Here are the top 5 skills to land the best-paying jobs in container/packaging.
1. Problem-solving skills
Problems can come up at any given point in time and you have to be prepared to handle them when you are in a high-paying position. Things can go wrong with a lot of things on your plate. This ability is highly necessary for this level of job in containers/packaging.
You must show your endurance level and problem-solving skills here. When you face issues like damage, you must think creatively and come up with a solution. Know how to multitask to be able to use your problem-solving skill.
2. Excellent Communication Skills
Communication skills are important in the container/packaging industry. Effective communication is vital for employee performance and maintaining good working relationships among staff.
Flawless communication skills also help build strong relationships with customers. It creates a better work environment for employees. You need it for a high-paying role.
3. Company standards compliance
Every brand has a specific standard for its containers/packaging sector. The company expects you to meet its expectations. To get a high-paying job in this industry, you must be knowledgeable about the company’s standards.
It’s a skill you must have for a high-level role. You must know the packaging standards of all their products and apply them to your work. You must pay attention to this ability to improve in your career.
4. Interpersonal Skills
Interpersonal skills are needed in every business sector. It is important for anyone looking for a high-paying job in container/packaging. Every day, difficult customers and colleagues can slow down your job progress.
Your job at this level involves working with a lot of people. It’s important to have interpersonal skills. This will help to make your work easier.
5. Customer services skills
When targeting a high-paying job in the containers/packaging industry, you must demonstrate your customer service abilities. It is considered a great skill. Employers seek this skill when hiring for such roles.
They want employees who can improve their relationship with customers and contribute to the company’s success. Excellent customer service skills help to build a better reputation for the brand.
Where to Find the Best Paying Jobs in Containers/Packaging
Getting a high-paying job in the containers/packaging industry can be a difficult endeavor, but with the correct steps and strategies, you can get hired for any position of your choice.
Top 4 places to find the best paying jobs in containers/packaging
1. Social Media
Social media has grown to be more than a place where people chat and post pictures. Brands use this medium to grow their businesses to a global audience. You can get a job from platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook. Job seekers can go to the search section and enter the roles they are looking for and apply.
2. Job listing websites
Job listing websites like Craigslist, Indeed, and ZipRecruiter, are good places to start searching for high-paying jobs in containers/packaging. You can search for the role you want and use the filter option to choose your specifications.
3. Company websites
Employers always post job vacancies on their official websites. Write down the list of companies you want to work with and go to their sites to look for vacancies. Read about the available job, note the requirements, and send in your application.
4. Online Forums
Quora, Reddit, Twitter spaces, Facebook groups, and Clubhouse are good places to join if you are searching for high-paying jobs in containers/packaging. Join conversations, listen to audio discussions, and ask questions when you join these groups. Employers use these mediums to employ new workers in their companies.
Factors Determining Workers’ Pay in the Containers/Packaging Sector
Top 6 factors determining an employee’s salary in the containers/packaging sector
1. Location
Location influences pay rates. Workers in urban areas are always paid more than their counterparts in rural sides.
2. Market demand
Containers/packaging pay rates are influenced by the demand for workers. If there are more job openings than available workers, employers retain their employees with a higher pay offer. This is because the job openings might offer them a higher pay rate and make them lose competent hands.
3. Roles
Your role within the containers/packaging sector determines your pay rate. No two roles get the same pay rate. A graphics designer cannot get the same pay as a research developer.
4. Company size
The size of a company determines how much workers are paid. A worker in a start-up will not be paid the same salary as an employee of an established company. Bigger companies also pay more than smaller companies because their revenue is different.
5. Field of specialization
Employers in some sectors of containers/packaging such as pharmaceutical, food, and beverages packaging are paid higher than others in other sections.
6. Education and experience
Payment in the containers/packaging industry is also influenced by education and experience. Some workers who are more experienced and have acquired higher degrees in education are paid more. This is because they have more skills, knowledge, and experience in the industry.
A higher diploma or GED holder will not be paid the same as a person with a degree or master’s.
Top 10 Companies with the Best-Paying Jobs in Containers/Packaging
Conclusion: Best Paying Jobs in Containers/Packaging
The best-paying jobs in containers/packaging require a degree related to your role or expertise. It is always challenging to find a high-paying job in this sector. But with the steps outlined in this article, you can find the best paying jobs in this field. Look through the job listings or vacancies and make sure you follow the requirements. Ensure you follow the tips shared in this article to find the high-paying jobs you desire.
