Production worker (manufacturing)
Production workers manufacture goods and parts in industries like food and drink, pharmaceuticals, battery technology and engineering.
What you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
As a production worker, your could:
- measure, grade and feed raw materials into production machinery
- operate equipment like factory conveyor lines
- assemble goods on a production line
- report equipment faults to maintenance staff
- monitor production and carry out basic testing and quality checks
- store goods and raw materials, using lifting equipment
- clean and maintain work areas and machinery
Working environment
You could work in a factory or in a warehouse.
Your working environment may be noisy.
You may need to wear protective clothing.
Career path and progression
With experience, you could become a shift supervisor, line manager or move into quality control.
What it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to operate and control equipment
- the ability to work well with others
- to be flexible and open to change
- the ability to work well with your hands
- observation and recording skills
- excellent verbal communication skills
- knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
How to become
You can get into this job through:
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
You could apply to do an apprenticeship.
Examples include:
- Lean Manufacturing Operative Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship
- Food and Drink Process Operator Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship
- Battery Manufacturing Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
These typically take from 1 to 3 years to complete, and are a mix of learning on the job and off-site study.
There are many other apprenticeships available, covering specific manufacturing industries, such as automotive, chemicals and engineering.
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
More Information
You could apply for production jobs directly. Some employers may look for GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent qualifications. Experience of production line work would be useful.
You may have to take a test at interview to assess your practical skills.
Career tips
Forklift truck training could be useful for some jobs.
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External links
This page contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.