Vending machine operator

Vending machine operative, vending operator

Vending machine operators fill, maintain and collect money from machines that dispense products like drinks and snacks.

Salary range: £16,000 to £28,000

How to become a vending machine operator

You can get into this job through:

• an apprenticeship
• applying directly

Apprenticeship

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

Entry requirements

You’ll usually need:

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

More information

• equivalent entry requirements
• guide to apprenticeships

Direct application

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.

More 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.

What it takes

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

Restrictions and requirements

You’ll need to:

• have a full driving licence
• have a good level of fitness

What you’ll do

Day-to-day tasks

Your day-to-day duties may include:

• collecting money that’s been deposited
• filling and refilling machines with products
• cleaning vending machines
• making sure all machines are in good working order
• fixing minor faults
• calling out service engineers to carry out more complicated repairs
• completing 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 and progression

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