Packer for chocolate products factory

As per the U.S. Department of Labor, the federal minimum wage for packing jobs classified as non-exempt under the FLSA remains $7.25 per hour as of January 1, 2026. Overtime must be paid at 1.5 times the regular rate for all hours worked over 40 in a workweek. State minimums are higher in 30 states, such as $16.50 per hour in California.

Foreign nationals need an H-2B visa for temporary non-agricultural packing jobs, with a statutory cap of 66,000 visas for FY 2026. Employers must file Form I-129 and obtain a temporary labor certification from DOL showing no U.S. workers available. Processing time is 60-90 days, with supplemental caps up to 64,000 additional visas possible.

No formal education beyond less than high school is required for 30% of Packers and Packagers, Hand positions, per O*NET data. Entry-level roles demand no prior experience, with short-term on-the-job training averaging 30 days. Employers prioritize physical stamina to handle 25-50 lb lifts repeatedly.

Applicants must provide a Social Security card or number, photo ID, and complete Form I-9 for employment eligibility verification within 3 days of hire. A basic resume listing any manual labor history and proof of right-to-work are standard. Drug test and background check consents are required by 70% of warehouse employers.