Packer
Packers work in factories and warehouses, putting products into containers like boxes and crates for delivery.
Average annual salary (starting - experienced): £12,000 - £22,000
Typical hours (a week): 41 - 43
How to become a packer
You can get into this job through:
Apprenticeship
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.
Apprenticeship (Entry requirements)
You'll usually need:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
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 packaging or any manufacturing role can help.
What it takes
Skills & Knowledge
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
Restriction & Requirements
You may need a forklift truck licence for certain jobs
What you'll do
Day to day
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
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
Career path & progression
With experience you could become a supervisor or shift leader. With training, you could work in quality control or move into delivery work.
