Packer

You may be able to start work as a packer through a warehouse operative intermediate apprenticeship. You could do this with a retail, distribution or manufacturing company.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

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

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• guide to apprenticeships

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 packaging or any manufacturing role can help. 

You'll need:

• the ability to work well with others
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• the ability to work on your own
• sensitivity and understanding
• to enjoy working with other people
• the ability to work well with your hands
• customer service skills
• knowledge of English language
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

You may need a forklift truck licence for certain jobs.

Your day-to-day duties could include:

• packing goods with bubble wrap and polystyrene chips
• sealing containers using glue, staples or shrink-wrap
• weighing and labelling packaged goods
• reporting problems to supervisors
• cleaning work areas

You could work in a factory or in a warehouse.

Your working environment may be cool.

You may need to wear protective clothing.