Packer

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• an apprenticeship
• applying directly

Entry requirements:

Entry requirements:

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:

• some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship

DirectApplication

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

You can get more details about working in packing and warehousing from Generation Logistics.

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Skills:

• the ability to work well with others
• concentration skills
• physical skills like movement, coordination and dexterity
• 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
• to enjoy working with other people
• customer service skills
• knowledge of English language
• sensitivity and understanding
• business management skills
• thinking and reasoning skills
• the ability to monitor your own performance and that of your colleagues
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• knowledge of maths
• leadership skills
• active listening skills
• physical fitness and endurance

What you'll do:

Packers work in factories and warehouses, putting products into containers like boxes, bottles and crates ready for delivery.

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

Location : You could work in a factory or in a warehouse.
Environment : Your working environment may be cool.
Uniform : You may need to wear protective clothing.

Salary:

Starter : £18,000
Experienced : £24,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

38 - 42 hours a week

Working Pattern is evenings / weekends on shifts

Career Path:

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