Vending Machine Operator

Typical Salary

£16,000 To £28,000

Typical Hours

38 to 40 a week

on call on shifts

How To Become a Vending Machine Operator

You can get into this job through:

an apprenticeship
applying directly

College / University

Apprenticeship

You may be able to do a drinks dispense technician advanced apprenticeship.

5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship

Routes into this Career

Routes into this Career are not listed for this job.

Although you do not usually need specific qualifications to start work as a vending operator, having some GCSEs at grades 9 to 2 (A* to E) can give you an advantage, especially in English, maths or science. Knowledge of basic mechanical and electrical engineering would also be helpful.

Other Routes

Other Routes are not listed for this job.

Skills And Knowledge

You'll need:

the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
practical skills for repairing and maintaining equipment
knowledge of maths
the ability to work well with your hands
problem-solving skills
to be thorough and pay attention to detail
the ability to operate and control equipment
the ability to use your initiative
to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Day To Day Tasks

In your day-to-day duties you may:

collect money that's been deposited
fill and refill machines with products
clean vending machines
make sure all machines are in good working order
fix minor faults
call out service engineers to carry out more complicated repairs
complete paperwork

Working Environment

You could work in a stock room, at a client's business or visit sites.

You may need to wear a uniform.

Career Path & Progression

With experience, you could become a supervisor or area manager, or set up your own vending business.

Volunteering Opportunities

Volunteering Opportunities are not listed for this job.

Tips & Information

Professional and industry bodies

You could join the Automatic Vending Association, for professional development, training opportunities and to make industry contacts.

Further information

You can find out more about the vending industry from the Automatic Vending Association.

Restrictions & Requirements

You'll need to:

have a full driving licence
have a good level of fitness