FOOD & DRINKS INDUSTRY PACKAGING JOBS

Packaging operatives, or machine technicians, work on the machines and production lines that put finished food and drink products (such as biscuits, crisps, soup, soft drinks and chocolate bars) into bottles, cans, containers or packets. Items are then packed into larger boxes or crates.

The manufacture of food and drink products is highly mechanised, so your work as an operative is likely to include:

adjusting machine settings to handle changes from one type of product, or shape and size of container, to another
identifying errors in the machines' operation
correcting the machines as soon as a fault develops.

In large factories you would make sure the machines are loaded with packaging supplies and running smoothly. You would remove any damaged goods and clean the machines ready for each new batch.

What qualifications and experience will employers look for?

You will not usually need any qualifications to start work as a packaging operative, but it will be useful if you have experience of work in manufacturing.

You may be able to get into this job through an Apprenticeship scheme. The range of Apprenticeships available in your area will depend on the local jobs market and the types of skills employers need from their workers.

What further training and development can I do?

Once you start work you will receive on-the-job training, working alongside experienced staff. Many employers have their own training courses in hygiene and health and safety.

You may also be encouraged to complete a food safety certificate such as those offered by the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) and the Royal Society for Public Health (RSPH).

You may be able to work towards NVQ qualifications in subjects such as: