Food and Drink Technical Operator
Level 3 Apprenticeship Standard (ST0196, v1.2)
Role Profile
Food and Drink Technical Operators play a key role in the manufacture of safe and compliant food and drink products. They operate and monitor machinery, complete production start‑ups, changeovers and shutdowns, carry out fault diagnosis and basic asset care, and ensure products meet quality and performance standards. They also support audits, maintain traceability, and contribute to continuous improvement activities while working to strict food safety, health, safety, and environmental requirements.
Typical Job Roles
Food and Drink Technical Operator
Process Technician
Manufacturing Technician
Advanced Operator
Technical Operator
Process Development Technician
Course Content
Apprentices develop skills and knowledge in:
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HACCP, GMP, allergen control, traceability, audits, and documentation.
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First‑line maintenance, lubrication, cleaning, and reporting issues.
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Equipment setup, operation, changeover, and shutdown; monitoring KPIs and throughput.
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Inspection, testing, and monitoring to specification.
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Contributing to efficiency, waste reduction, and process improvements.
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Effective shift handovers, reporting, and collaboration across departments.
FAQs
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The Food and Drink Advanced Process Operator Apprenticeship typically lasts 30 months, plus an additional End-Point Assessment (EPA) period at the end.
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The End-Point Assessment (EPA) for this apprenticeship consists of the following components:
Knowledge Test: A combination of multiple-choice and short-answer questions to assess theoretical knowledge.
Practical Observation: A demonstration of technical skills in the workplace, where the apprentice's ability to perform tasks will be evaluated.
Presentation and Interview: Based on workplace evidence and the apprentice's portfolio, this involves presenting and discussing their learning and progress.
Note: All elements of the EPA must be passed to successfully achieve the apprenticeship.
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Apprentices must achieve Level 2 English and Maths (if not already held) before reaching the End-Point Assessment (EPA).
Employers may set their own specific entry requirements for candidates applying for this apprenticeship.
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Funding Band: £16,000.
Non-levy Employer Contribution: £800 (5% of the total funding).
Additional funding support may be available, depending on the apprentice's age and the size of the employer.
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After completing the apprenticeship, apprentices can progress to:
Team Leader / Supervisor roles within the food and drink industry.
Food and Drink Maintenance Engineer Apprenticeship.
Operations or Departmental Manager Apprenticeship.
Further higher education in fields such as food science, production management, or related disciplines.