Packaging Operator

Ingredion Incorporated; Kansas City (MO); On-site; USD 31,684 - 38,572; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Benefits package

401(k) plan with company match

Job summary

Ingredion Incorporated is hiring a Packaging Operator for our North Kansas City facility. You will handle daily packaging operations, set up and troubleshoot packaging machinery, ensure quality and safety compliance, and document production activity.

The role requires a high school diploma or GED, basic computer skills, and the ability to pass required tests and screenings. We operate 24/7 with a seven‑day rotation across shifts, offering wage progression at 6, 12, and 18 months.

Qualifications

• Must pass testing on Math, Reading, and Mechanical Aptitude.
• Must pass a background check for education, work history, and criminal record.
• Must complete a physical and drug screen.
• High school diploma/GED required.

Responsibilities

• Operate packaging machinery and related equipment to ensure accurate product packaging.
• Set up, operate, and troubleshoot equipment.
• Maintain quality standards and adhere to safety guidelines.
• Enter data and document downtime, production, and mechanical issues.
• Coordinate with other departments to maximize productivity.
• Maintain a clean, food-grade workspace.
• Load railcars and bags with food‑grade specifications.

Skills

Math aptitude

Reading aptitude

Basic computer skills

Education

High school diploma/GED

Job description

Title: Packaging Operator

Location: North Kansas City

Reports To: Department Manager

Open Shifts: Second, Swing

Starting Wage: $22.57 per hour + Shift Differentials. Wage increases at 6 months ($23.29), 12 months ($24.42), and 18 months ($27.55).

About Ingredion

Join Ingredion, where innovation impacts lives worldwide! Without even realizing it, you’ve experienced our work in your favorite chocolate, your pet’s food, the paper you write on, and your everyday snacks. As a global powerhouse across more than 60 industries, we harness the potential of natural ingredients to transform lives. Whether you’re just starting your career or bringing years of experience, there’s a place for you here to make a real difference. Be part of our team that values a wide range of perspectives and is committed to shaping a better world with every product we create.

The Packaging Operator is responsible for managing the daily operations of packaging machinery to ensure efficient and accurate product packaging. This role involves setting up, operating, and troubleshooting equipment, maintaining quality standards, and adhering to safety guidelines. The ideal candidate has strong attention to detail, excellent problem‑solving skills, and the ability to work in a fast‑paced environment. Prior experience with packaging systems, knowledge of production processes or manufacturing experience are a plus.

Work Environment

Our North Kansas City plant is a 66‑acre facility operating 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Each associate is part of the United Steel Workers Local 11‑617 Union. Ingredion NKC follows a seven‑day rotation with four shifts: 1st shift (7 am‑3 pm), 2nd shift (3 pm‑11 pm), 3rd shift (11 pm‑7 am), and a swing shift that covers days off other shifts. Associates work 8-hour shifts, but may be required to work up to 16 hours per union contract. The plant environment can be demanding, with varying temperatures, noise levels, chemicals and heights, and potential encounters with pests such as wasps and mice. Personal protective equipment is required in all departments.

There is room for career growth at Ingredion NKC if growth is what you aspire to.

What You Will Do

• Operate mechanical equipment including palletizers, conveyors, and forklifts.
• Sample and test products.
• Load railcars and bags with food‑grade specifications.
• Facilitate and inspect finished product ready for the customer.
• Pack 50‑pound bags, railcars, and bulk bagging starch.
• Maintain inventory.
• Prepare railcars and trucks.
• Enter data and document downtime, production, and mechanical issues.
• Adhere to food safety regulations.
• Coordinate with other departments to maximize productivity.
• Maintain a clean, food‑grade workspace.

What You Will Bring And Who You Are

• High school diploma/GED required.
• Basic computer and technology skills.
• Must be able to pass testing on Math, Reading, and Mechanical Aptitude.
• Must pass a background check for education, work history, and criminal record.
• Must complete a physical and drug screen.
• Work a 7‑day rotation; every 3 weeks employees have a three‑day weekend (Saturday, Sunday, and Monday).

Why Join Ingredion?

If you are inspired by professional challenges and the rewards that come from a high level of performance, then Ingredion is the company for you. At Ingredion you can be part of a globally connected team inspired to achieve great things. We believe in the power of our people to work together to seize opportunities, overcome obstacles, and exceed expectations. Each day, individuals make a meaningful difference in the quality of our products and the success of our technology and operations and, in turn, the quality of life for consumers.

A career at Ingredion combines the benefits and professional opportunities afforded by a $7 billion leader in our industry with the dynamic environment and team‑driven culture you’d expect in a smaller company. Despite its global scope and the advancement opportunities that come with it, Ingredion has the intimacy of a mid‑size company where different perspectives are sought and relationships matter.

Benefits

Full‑time roles are eligible for a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage as well as a 401(k) plan with a competitive company match.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Ingredion is an equal‑opportunity employer and values diversity. We provide a work environment free from harassment and discrimination. We will not tolerate any discrimination based on protected classifications. We are committed to creating a dignified and respectful workplace.

Accommodations

Ingredion provides accommodations to job applicants with disabilities throughout the hiring process. If an applicant requires accommodation during the application or selection process, we will work with them to meet those needs.

AI‑Enabled Recruitment Tools

Ingredion uses AI‑enabled tools to support parts of the recruitment process, including resume screening and interview scheduling. All AI‑assisted decisions are reviewed by our Talent Acquisition team to ensure fairness and compliance. By applying, you acknowledge that an AI may be used to support your application journey.

Relocation

No

Compensation Disclaimer

This pay rate is not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Final base salary will be determined based on several factors which may include but are not limited to responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, and applicable bargaining agreement (if any).