Food Packaging Operative
What is the work like?
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 containers, cans or packets. Items are then packed into larger boxes or crates.
The manufacture of food 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 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. For more information on Apprenticeships, visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk.
What further training and development can I do?
When 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 run by the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) and the Royal Society for the Promotion of Health (RSPH). Courses normally take place at local training centres or colleges.
You could work towards qualifications such as:
- NVQ levels 1, 2 and 3 in Food Manufacture
- NVQ levels 1 and 2 in Performing Manufacturing Operations
- NVQ levels 1 and 2 for Packaging Operators.
Where can I go for more information?
38A St George’s DriveLondon
SW1V 4BH
Tel: 020 7630 0121
St Andrew’s Dock
Hull
HU3 4QE
Tel: 01482 327837
15 Hatfields
London
SE1 8DJ
Tel: 020 7928 6006
Careers website: http://www.ehcareers.org
2 Innovation Close
York
YO10 5ZF
Tel: 0845 644 0448
http://www.improve-skills.co.uk/
If you would like to discuss your career options with a learning advisor at the learndirect advice line, call 0800 100 900 or use our online enquiry form
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What salary and other benefits can I expect?
- Starting salaries can be around £11,000 a year.
- With experience this can rise to between £13,000
and £18,000.
Salaries can increase with night shift payments.
Figures are intended as a guideline only.
What are the hours and working conditions?
You would typically work 37 to 40 hours a week on a shift system, usually including weekends. Overtime is common during busy times. Part-time work is often available.
Factories are usually noisy and may be hot or cold, depending on the product being made. You would wear protective clothing.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- a good level of physical fitness
- good observational skills to spot faults
- patience to carry out repetitive tasks
- the ability to work quickly to meet production targets
- good team working skills and the ability to work on your own
- the ability to follow strict health and safety guidelines and quality procedures
- good standards of personal hygiene.
What opportunities are there?
You may find that the number of work opportunities available changes on a seasonal basis.
As an experienced operative, you could progress to supervisor or manager.
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