Food & Drink Process Operator

Apprenticeship Information

Introduction

Process operators work on food and drink production lines, producing one or multiple products like biscuits, cakes, ready meals, salads, soft drinks, and confectionery.

Overview

Process Operators support food and drink production by completing processing procedures, assisting with machine start-up, changeovers, and shutdowns. They monitor quality, maintain throughput, prepare shifts, and contribute to continuous improvement and audits. Working under supervision, they collaborate with technical operators, maintenance, and other team members, reporting to operational managers. They follow Standard Operating Procedures to ensure food safety, quality, health and safety, and environmental standards. Operators work as part of a team to meet deadlines, productivity, and efficiency targets, often working shifts that include unsociable hours in a fast-paced environment.

Entry requirements

The employer will agree entry requirements for these apprenticeships and these will depend on the role that they are advertising.

Available apprenticeships and progression options

Food & Drink Process Operator, Production Line Worker