Food and drink process operator
“A food and drink process operator works on food and drink production lines within food manufacturing plants and businesses”
A food and drink process operator works in the manufacturing sector of the food and drink industry. You may be employed in a company that specialises in one type of product, such as ready meals, soft drinks or confectionery, or in a company that makes a wide range of different products. Process operators typically work on production lines within food manufacturing plants. The industry uses excellent manufacturing processes and highly automated equipment and technology to ensure it remains competitive, and produces food and drink products to strict food safety and quality standards. On completion of this programme, you’ll be able to carry out production operations using a range of equipment, and will be able to carry out basic fault finding on the equipment with which you work. You’ll be able to handle food products safely and hygienically, and will follow standard operating procedures to maintain quality.
Duration: 18 months
Relevant school subjects: Food technology
Entry requirements: Depend on employer, but likely GCSEs or equivalent qualifications or relevant experience
Achievement upon completion: Level 2 (Intermediate)—equivalent to GCSEs at grades A* to C
Potential salary upon completion: £18,000 per annum
More information: www.instituteforapprenticeships.org/apprenticeship-standards/food-and-drink-process-operator
