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Packaging Machine Operator

If you enjoy getting creative, working with technology and producing a useful product, a career in the packaging industry could suit you.

Careers information

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What do they do?

Packaging machine operators use specialist machines to create attractive, protective paperboard packaging for things like food, beauty products, household appliances and beverages. They also check that packaging meets specifications.

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A typical day

Typically, an eight-hour day.

Packaging machine operators plan, set up and run machines to make ready, cut and crease substrates, glue and fold elements to meet specific quality standards.

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     Sound like you? 

Study areas
Attributes
Helpful experience
Preferred work environments
  • Sciences or Workshop Technology
  • Creative Arts (Visual/ Textiles/ Graphics/ Performance/ Music)
  • Computing/ICT/Information Management
  • Strong eye for detail
  • Good literacy and numeracy
  • Confidence with IT, computers, technology
  • Good initiative/‘can do’ attitude
  • Analysing, researching or problem solving
  • Making or fixing things
  • Working with machinery
  • Working with computers
  • Inside (workshop or plant)
  • One place every day

Career pathway

School
Entry level jobs
Advancing jobs
Senior jobs
  • Printing Production (Digital Processes, Screen, Sheet Fed, Reel Fed, Pad Printing, Binding and Finishing)
  • Packaging Machine Operator
  • Fibreboard Manufacturer
  • Forme Die Maker
  • Die Cutter
  • Glue Operator
  • Team Leader
  • Production Planner
  • Business Manager
  • Operations Manager
  • Business Owner
 Unit/Achievement standards in schoolsApprenticeshipHigher learningHigher learning