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Packer
Order packer, packaging worker, bottler
Packers work in factories and warehouses, putting products into containers like boxes, bottles and crates ready for delivery.
Average salary (a year)
£18000
Starter
£24000
Experienced
Typical hours (a week)
38.0 to 42.0 hours
a week
Work Hours
evenings / weekends
on shifts
How to become
Explore the different ways to get into this role
You can get into this job through:an apprenticeship; applying directly
Apprenticeship
You may be able to start work after doing an intermediate apprenticeship, such as
Supply Chain Warehouse Operative Level 2, Food and Drink Process Operator Level 2
You could do these with a retail, distribution or manufacturing company. They normally take around one year to complete.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
  • some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
More Information
equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
guide to apprenticeships|https://www.gov.uk/apprenticeships-guide
Direct Application
You can apply directly for jobs. There are no set qualifications to work as a packer. You may have to take an assessment to check your practical skills before being offered a job.
Previous experience in packing, bottling, canning, manufacturing or warehouse work can help.
Further information
What it takes
Find out what skills you’ll use in this role
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
    The ability to work well with others
    Concentration skills
    Physical skills like movement, coordination, dexterity and grace
    The ability to work on your own
    The ability to work well with your hands
    Excellent verbal communication skills
    Patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
    Knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
Digital Skills Level
to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
Other Requirements
You might need a forklift truck licence for certain jobs.
What you will do
Discover the day-to-day tasks you’ll do in this role
Day to day tasks
As a packer, you could
pick, pack and label products, check samples for damaged goods and breakages, seal packaging with tape, glue, staples or shrink-wrap, move products to storage areas, using a powered pallet or forklift truck, load goods onto lorries for delivery, report problems to supervisors
Working environment
You could work in a factory or in a warehouse.
You may need to wear protective clothing.
Your working environment may be cool.
Career Path & Progression
Look at progression in this role and similar opportunities
With experience you could become a packing supervisor or shift leader. With further training, you could work in
quality control, production line maintenance, stock control, training
Job profile data provided by The National Careers Service.
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