What will you do?
The role is also known as a pallet maker, pallet repairer or wood packaging worker. You determine the working method, mark out the workpiece, set the machine parameters and assemble the parts. You make crates and packaging to size, finish the wooden workpieces and repair pallets and crates.
- Determine the working method for the job
- Mark out the workpiece and set the machine parameters
- Assemble the parts into a frame
- Make crates and packaging to size
- Finish the wooden workpieces
- Repair pallets and crates
- Maintain the machines and check the stock
Skills to develop
- Manual dexterity and feeling for wood
- Safe handling of nail guns and woodworking machines
- Physically fit for repetitive assembly work
- Accuracy in measuring and cutting to size
- Knowledge of safety and environmental rules
Your foundation for this occupation
Wooden packaging must suit the goods and transport method. Learn drawings, dimensions and components, and clarify standard pallets, repairs or bespoke crates. Machinery and fastening tools need induction. A pallet that looks approximately right may still violate the specified construction.
From preparation to your first day
Develop the practical skills
Practise assembly with correct components and a template or dimensions. Reject timber defects according to the work instruction. Keep new production and repairs distinct. Bespoke crates require clear space, support and access requirements for their contents.
Check your work
Check size, joints, projecting fasteners and complete construction. Segregate doubtful products. Never apply certification or treatment marks outside the authorised company procedure. Repairs must meet criteria, not merely look complete again.
How can you grow?
Progression includes custom packaging, machine setting or team coordination. Drawing skills and repeatable assembly are useful. Ask which products you can build independently after induction and how they are inspected.
Frequently asked questions
Is pallet repair just replacing a broken board?
Overall condition and repair specifications determine what is possible. Dimensions, joints and other damage still matter. Replacing the visible break alone does not establish the condition of the rest.