Summary
Quick Facts: Food Processing Operators | |
---|---|
$24,250 per year
$11.66 per hour |
|
High school diploma or equivalent | |
Less than 1 year | |
Short-term on-the-job training | |
131,000 | |
2% (Little or no change) | |
2,300 |
What Food Processing Operators Do
Food processing operators include food batchmakers and food cooking machine operators and tenders. These workers may set up, operate, and tend cooking equipment that mixes, blends, cooks, or otherwise processes ingredients used to manufacture food products.
Work Environment
Food processing operators work in food processing facilities. Facilities are usually loud and may be hot or cold, depending on the goods being produced. Most food processing operators worked full time in 2010.
How to Become a Food Processing Operator
Most food processing operators have at least a high school degree. Because of the increasing complexity of the equipment, math and English skills may be required. Physical stamina is required, and some previous experience in manufacturing is preferred.
Pay
The median annual wage of food processing operators was $24,250 in May 2010.
Job Outlook
Overall employment of food processing operators is expected to experience little or no change, growing 2 percent from 2010 to 2020. Population growth, international trade, and consumer preference for convenience foods will maintain demand for these workers.
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Contacts for More Information
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