How to become
You can get into this job through:
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
Apprenticeship
You may be able to apply for a Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship, such as:
- Food and Drink Process Operator
- Supply Chain Warehouse Operative
- Express Delivery Sortation Hub Operative
You can do these with retail, warehouse distribution and manufacturing companies. They normally take around 1 year to complete.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
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Direct Application
Employers often advertise vacancies for temporary staff and seasonal packing workers through recruitment agencies, which can lead to a permanent job.
There are no set qualifications to work as a packer, though basic computer skills would be useful for using online ordering systems and stock control scanners.
You may have to take an assessment to check your practical skills before being offered a job.
Experience in packing, bottling, order picking or warehouse work can be helpful, though employers will offer you full training when you start.
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Career tips
Some employers may put you through forklift training once you've been with them for a few months.
Further information
You can find more details about working in packing and warehousing from Generation Logistics.