Packaging staff for Estée Lauder cosmetics

As per the Bureau of Labor Statistics, entry-level packing and packaging jobs pay $12.67 per hour at the 10th percentile wage as of 2026. Median pay is $16.43 per hour, equivalent to $34,170 annually. Experienced packers earn up to $21.92 per hour at the 90th percentile.

As per U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, H-2B visas are available for temporary non-agricultural packing jobs, with a fiscal year 2026 cap of 66,000 visas plus supplemental allocations. Employers must obtain temporary labor certification from DOL and file Form I-129, with approvals valid up to 12 months. Premium processing costs $1,685 and reduces time to 15 calendar days.

As per the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 34% of packers and packagers have less than a high school diploma, and no formal education is required for entry-level roles. Little to no prior work experience is needed, with short-term on-the-job training under 30 days provided by employers. Physical stamina is essential for lifting up to 50 pounds.

As per U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, all new hires must complete Form I-9 within 3 business days, providing documents like a U.S. passport, driver's license plus Social Security card, or birth certificate plus ID. A Social Security Number is required for payroll and taxes. No specific resume is mandated, but employment history helps.