Kent labour market information
Fresh food and food production
Food and drink production is a vital part of the UK economy, creating delicious and nutritious products as well as supporting thousands of jobs in Kent and Medway.
You could be involved in the growing and farming of food (horticulture, agriculture, and viticulture) or the processing and manufacturing. This is a sector which can often be overlooked but there’s wide and diverse range of interesting opportunities looking for young people to bring new ideas - from practical and technical roles to scientific and creative careers.
20 jobs and careers in fresh food and food production
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ecologist food science technician farm worker
soil scientist drone pilot crop technician
environmental consultant commercial horticulturalist agricultural engineer
farm manager data analyst dairy shift manager
IT support technician artisan baker marketing executive
viticulturalist horticultural technician quality assurance manager
food packaging technician veterinarian
Now and the future
This sector is incredibly forward-looking and at the forefront of research into areas such as waste reduction, sustainability, conservation and food security. In the future, the food industries, including those in Kent and Medway, will play an enormous role in reducing the impact of climate change. Sustainable packaging, food waste reduction programmes, responsible sourcing and public education are all exciting areas that will drive innovation and create new job roles.
Food and drink production is also closely connected with transport and logistics operations, working together to create efficiencies and ways of transitioning to more environmentally-friendly energy sources.
Cutting-edge technology is rapidly changing the ways in which jobs in these industries are done. Robotics, AI and drone technology can help to extend the growing season, monitor land use andbecome more efficient.
The increasing use of digital technologies and data analytics requires a workforce with a range of digital and technical skills. Employers are looking for workers who are comfortable using digital devices and other technology as well as those with advanced technical expertise.
People with these skills are in demand:
- engineering and technical
- environmental management
- data science
- digital (basic and advanced)
- farm workers with specialist skills such as tractor driving.
Spotlight on Kent and Medway
People in Kent and Medway work hard to maintain the area’s reputation as the Garden of England! We’re leading the way with our world class fresh produce and have one of the largest food and drink production sectors in the UK.
What’s more, with a future likely to demand more seasonal and locally-grown produce, we can expect the sector to continue to thrive. We’re home to the UK’s biggest greenhouse complex, Thanet Earth, which is building a new glasshouse, and we have over 50 vineyards. Across the county, new methods of chemical-free growing and vertical farming are being developed and the EKC Innovation Kitchen at The Yarrow in Broadstairs is supporting food innovation in the area. There are lots of exciting opportunities!
You could work in:
- the growing of fresh food (especially soft fruit and top fruit)
- crop and animal production
- food processing and packaging
- research and development.
Scroll to the bottom of this page to find links to some great local employers.
More information
- is adaptable and can work in more than one area
- has basic digital skills
- is a good communicator
- enjoys trying new things
- pays attention to detail
- can follow health and safety procedures
- has leadership and management skills.
Useful subjects
These subjects and qualifications could help you get into this sector:
maths | chemistry | biology | physics | English | design and technology | geography | art | computer science | law | business studies | applied science
What about apprenticeships?
There’s a wide range of apprenticeships at all levels. You could apply for an apprenticeship at 16 and progress your career or keep studying and move into a higher or degree apprenticeship from age 18.
For vacancies in Kent and Medway and further information:
- Find an Apprenticeship
- Amazing Apprenticeships
- Higher and Degree Apprenticeship Vacancy Listing
- Explore the Skills England apprenticeship maps for this sector
Your choices @
14-16
You’ll gain useful skills in maths, chemistry, biology, English and geography; physics, computer science, design and technology and arts subjects may also be useful for some careers.
Post 16
Five or more GCSEs at grade 4+ including English and maths | Working towards grade 4 GCSE English or maths |
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Post 18
- degree
- other higher education qualification
- higher or degree apprenticeship
- employment with or without further training
An industry-approved degree or a higher or degree apprenticeship is required for some professional and associate professional roles in this sector such as land-based or mechanical engineer.
Gain skills and knowledge by building up experience. This could include volunteering, work shadowing, a work experience placement or traineeship, or paid employment. Experience in a related area could be helpful when applying for jobs or training.
Want to know more
Kent employers
