You may be able to do a drinks dispense technician advanced apprenticeship.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), usually including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
Vending machine operator
Alternative titles for this job include Vending machine operative, vending operator
Vending machine operators fill, maintain and collect money from machines that dispense products like drinks and snacks.
Average salary (a year)
£16,000 Starter
to£28,000 Experienced
Typical hours (a week)
38 to 40 a week
You could work
on call on shifts
How to become a vending machine operator
You can get into this job through:
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
Apprenticeship
Direct application
Although you do not usually need specific qualifications to start work as a vending operator, having some GCSEs at grades 9 to 2 (A* to E) can give you an advantage, especially in English, maths or science. Knowledge of basic mechanical and electrical engineering would also be helpful.
More information
Professional and industry bodies
You could join the Automatic Vending Association, for professional development, training opportunities and to make industry contacts.
Further information
You can find out more about the vending industry from the Automatic Vending Association.
What it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
- practical skills for repairing and maintaining equipment
- knowledge of maths
- the ability to work well with your hands
- problem-solving skills
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to operate and control equipment
- the ability to use your initiative
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
Restrictions and requirements
You'll need to:
- have a full UK or EU driving licence, held for at least 12 months
- have a good level of fitness
What you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
Your day-to-day duties may include:
- collecting money that's been deposited
- filling and refilling machines with products
- cleaning vending machines
- making sure all machines are in good working order
- fixing minor faults
- calling out service engineers to carry out more complicated repairs
- completing paperwork
Working environment
You could work in a stock room, at a client's business or visit sites.
You may need to wear a uniform.
Career path and progression
With experience, you could become a supervisor or area manager, or set up your own vending business.
Current opportunities
Apprenticeships In England
We can't find any apprenticeship vacancies in England for a vending machine operator right now.
The Find an apprenticeship service can help you with your search, send alerts when new apprenticeships become available and has advice on how to apply.
Courses In England
Are you interested in becoming a vending machine operator?
Search for training courses near you.
JobsIn the United Kingdom
The Find a job service can help you with your search for jobs and send alerts when new jobs become available.
Skills assessment
Take an assessment to learn more about your skills and the careers that might suit you.
Get help using this service
Call 0800 100 900 or use webchat
8am to 10pm, 7 days a week
More ways to contact us