Food factory worker
Hospitality and food

How to become a food factory worker

You can get into this job through:

• an apprenticeship
• applying directly

Apprenticeship

You could get into this job through a food and drink process operator intermediate apprenticeship, or a food and drink advanced process operator advanced apprenticeship.

Apprenticeship (Entry requirements)

You'll usually need:

• some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship

Direct application

You can apply directly for jobs. You'll have an advantage if you've got:

• experience of working on a production line, especially with food
• GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) in English and maths

What it takes

Skills & Knowledge

You'll need:

• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• the ability to work on your own
• knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
• the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
• the ability to work well with others
• knowledge of maths
• physical skills like movement, coordination, dexterity and grace
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

What you'll do

Day to day

Your day-to-day tasks may include:

• controlling machinery that processes food
• making sure there's a constant supply of ingredients
• checking instruments like temperature gauges
• reporting problems with equipment
• keeping machines clean

Working environment

You could work in a factory. Your working environment may be cool, noisy and hot. You may need to wear protective clothing.

Career path and progression

Career path & progression

With experience, you could become a shift supervisor or move into quality control. You could improve your job prospects by taking an industry qualification like a diploma in food team leading.