Crater/Packer

Instron; Norwood (MA); On-site; USD 31,684 - 37,195; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Collaborative work environment

Opportunities for skill development

Safety-first culture

Job summary

Instron is seeking a safety-focused, team-oriented Packer/Crater in Norwood, Massachusetts. The successful candidate will be responsible for designing and building custom crates, ensuring the safe transit of products. This role requires collaboration across teams, adherence to safety protocols, and a strong commitment to quality.

The ideal candidate should have experience in carpentry or framing, comfortable operating various tools, and a proactive work ethic. The compensation ranges from $23 to $27 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications.

Qualifications

• Experience in carpentry, framing, or working with lumber.
• Comfortable using hand tools, power tools, and shop equipment.
• Able to read drawings, take measurements, and create custom crate sketches.

Responsibilities

• Design and assemble custom crates and packaging.
• Collaborate with engineering teams for safe crating designs.
• Operate tools and equipment safely while adhering to safety protocols.
• Manage lumber inventory and complete material requisitions.

Skills

Carpentry experience

Forklift experience

Basic computer skills

Tools

Hand tools

Power tools

Job description

Job Description

Build with Purpose. Ship with Confidence. Work as One Team.
We’re looking for a safety-focused, team-oriented Packer/Crater to join our operations team. In this role, you will play a critical part in ensuring our products are packaged securely and delivered safely to our customers—every time.

What You’ll Do

Safe, Quality-Focused Crating & Packaging

• Design, build, and assemble custom crates, skids, boxes, and platforms for machinery and equipment.
• Determine the best crating methods for standard and non-standard items to ensure safe transit.
• Prepare and install bracing, blocking, and protective materials for secure transport by truck, rail, air, or ocean.
• Package small parcel and large-scale shipments with accuracy and care.
• Label shipments clearly for traceability and customer satisfaction.

Team Collaboration & Cross-Functional Support

• Partner with engineering teams to interpret drawings and suggest improvements for efficient, safe crating designs.
• Work closely with shipping, receiving, and production to meet timelines and ensure smooth workflow.
• Support team operations by cross-training in other departments such as receiving and small parcel shipping.
• Contribute to a positive, respectful, and team-first culture—sharing knowledge and learning from others.

Safety & Equipment Operation

• Operate tools and equipment including table saws, circular saws, drills, and forklifts safely and responsibly.
• Load and unload materials and finished crates using proper lifting techniques and equipment.
• Consistently follow strict safety protocols, including PPE usage and safe material handling practices.
• Help maintain a clean, organized, and hazard-free work environment.

Inventory & Process Support

• Monitor and manage lumber and crating material inventory.
• Complete requisitions and ensure materials are available to support production needs.
• Accurately measure, plan, and build crates tailored to product specifications.

What We’re Looking For

Core Skills & Experience

• Experience in carpentry, framing, or working with lumber (highly preferred).
• Comfortable using hand tools, power tools, and shop equipment.
• Forklift experience (or willingness to learn).
• Ability to read drawings, take measurements, and create sketches for custom crates.

Team & Safety Mindset

• Strong commitment to workplace safety and accountability.
• A collaborative team player who communicates effectively across departments.
• Willingness to learn, adapt, and support teammates in a dynamic environment.

Work Ethic & Problem-Solving

• Dependable, detail-oriented, and able to work independently or as part of a team.
• Comfortable working in high-volume or changing conditions.
• Proactive in asking questions and contributing ideas for improvement.

Technical & Administrative Skills

• Basic computer skills (e.g., Microsoft Office) for shipping labels and documentation.
• Ability to follow instructions while also thinking critically and creatively.

Why Join Us?

• Being part of a safety-first culture where your well-being is a top priority.
• Work in a collaborative environment that values teamwork and respect.
• Contribute directly to customer satisfaction and product integrity.
• Opportunities to learn new skills and grow across departments.
• Willingness to learn from others with prior experience.
• Familiarity with using power tools and forklift experience.

Compensation Information

This position has a starting hourly range of $23-$27 per hour. Pay is determined by several factors, including a candidate’s experience, relevant skills, and qualifications.

ITW is an equal opportunity employer. We value our colleagues’ unique perspectives, experiences and ideas and create workplaces where everyone can develop their careers and perform to their full potential.

As an equal employment opportunity employer, ITW is committed to equal employment opportunity and fair treatment for employees, beginning with the hiring process and continuing through all aspects of the employment relationship.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected Veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.