Food Packaging Operative

Job Description:

Food packaging operatives work on production lines to put food and drink products into containers, cans or packets.

Job Category:

Food & Drink

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What you will do:

In this role you could:

pack products into containers
check products on the production line for quality
keep machines supplied with packaging materials and labels
report machine faults
adjust machine settings
move goods to storage areas

Skills:

You’ll need:

knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
knowledge of maths
to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

As well as:

to be thorough and pay attention to detail
patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
the ability to work on your own (drive)
the ability to work well with others (teamwork)
physical skills like movement, coordination, dexterity and grace

Illustration of employee looking at workspace

Entry Requirements:

To become a food packaging operative, you generally don’t need specific qualifications, as many entry-level positions in this field focus on practical skills and on-the-job training. However, having a good general education and certain skills can be beneficial for securing a job in food packaging. Here are some considerations:

Basic high school subjects: A standard set of qualifications in subjects like English and mathematics can be helpful, as they provide a foundation in basic literacy and numeracy skills, which are important in many job settings, including food packaging.

Post School

You can get into this job through:

a college course
an apprenticeship
applying directly

College
You can do a Packaging Technology or Sustainable Packaging Technology Course (Level 2 in the UK). This can teach you some of the skills and knowledge you need in this job.

Apprenticeship
You may be able to start by doing a food and drink process operator intermediate apprenticeship.

Direct Application
You could apply directly for jobs. You don’t usually need any qualifications to start as a packaging operative, although it may help if you’ve worked on a production line before.

Restrictions and Requirements
You might need a forklift licence for some some jobs, for example to move finished products to factory storage areas.

Working Hours and Environment:

You could work in a factory.

Your working environment may be hot, noisy and cool.

You may need to wear protective clothing.

Career Path & Progression:

With experience, you could become a supervisor, production line manager or move into quality control work.

Food Packaging Operative