Packer Jobs

Packer jobs pack a variety of items for distribution. Packers use a selection of packing methods to contain and protect items so that it can be transported safely. The particular method packers use depends upon the type of item, its value, where it is being sent and how it will be despatched.

Packers may work for warehouses within manufacturers, wholesalers, retail shops, department stores, mail order operations or some packers may work for charities.

Some packer jobs operate machines that do the packing work for the packers,the packers will be responsible for loading the machine with raw materials, the packers will then put the items in boxes and then attach the labels.

Some packer jobs deal with raw materials include paper, cardboard, tissue paper and bubble wrap. In some cases packers may also have to group together different garments in accordance with a delivery note, and then the packers weigh and label the final packaging.

Packer jobs usually work 37 to 40 hours a week, although most packers shift work patterns vary. Packers might have to work shifts, including weekends or nights. Part-time work is common for packers.

Salaries for packers range from £9,000 for new packers, to £18,000 for experienced packers.

A packer should enjoy practical work, be careful, methodical and able to follow instructions, packers should be nimble-fingered for some jobs, write clearly if the job involves writing packaging labels and work well as part of a team.

Although no particular qualifications are needed for packer jobs, it is helpful to have some Key Skills qualifications, GCSEs/S grades or GNVQs/GSVQs. English, maths and practical subjects are useful.

Packers can work towards NVQs/SVQs Levels 1 and 2 in Packaging Operations.

Packer jobs may progress to supervisor or chargehand, or move into other areas of work such as machining or quality control inspection.