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Packer

Alternative titles for this job include 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)

£18,000 Starter

to

£24,000 Experienced

Typical hours (a week)

38 to 42 a week

You could work

evenings / weekends on shifts

How to become

Explore the different ways to get into this role.

How to become a packer

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

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

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

What it takes

Find out what skills you’ll use in this role.

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

  • 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 be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Restrictions and Requirements

You might need a forklift truck licence for certain jobs.

What you’ll do

Discover the day to day tasks you’ll do in this role.

What you'll do

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.

Your working environment may be cool.

You may need to wear protective clothing.

Career path and progression

Look at progression in this role and similar opportunities.

Career path and progression

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

Current opportunities

Find apprenticeships, courses and jobs available near you.

Current opportunities

Apprenticeships In England

Warehouse Apprentice

  • Wage: £15,210.00 Annually
  • Location: South Shields

Warehouse Operative Apprentice

  • Wage: £12,480.00 Annually
  • Location: Henry Boot Way, Hull
Find apprenticeships near you

Courses In England

Are you interested in becoming a packer?

Search for training courses near you.

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Skills assessment

Take an assessment to learn more about your skills and the careers that might suit you.

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You can call 0800 100 900 or use webchat to speak to an adviser.

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We're closed on Sundays, Christmas Day and New Year's Day.

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