Top In-Demand Jobs in BC’s Food Processing Industry (and How to Apply)
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British Columbia’s food processing industry is one of the province’s fastest-growing employment sectors. With strong demand for local and export-ready food products, facilities across BC are constantly looking for reliable workers to support production, packaging, quality control, and distribution. Whether you're starting or looking to switch careers, the food manufacturing sector offers hands-on roles with room to grow.
Here are some of the most in-demand jobs in BC’s food processing industry—and tips on how to apply.
1. Packaging Line Worker
What they do:
Packaging line workers are responsible for preparing products for sale. This can involve sorting, weighing, labelling, and sealing products. It's a physically active role that requires attention to detail and the ability to keep up with a fast-paced line.
Why it's in demand:
With high production volumes in seafood, baked goods, and ready-to-eat meals, packaging teams are essential to keep products moving efficiently from plant to store shelves.
2. Sanitation Technician
What they do:
Sanitation technicians clean and disinfect machinery, tools, and production areas to meet health and safety standards. Shifts often take place during off-hours, such as overnight or early mornings.
Why it's in demand:
Sanitation is critical in all food production environments. Employers need dependable workers who follow strict hygiene protocols to keep operations compliant and safe.
3. Machine Operator
What they do:
Machine operators set up, run, and monitor equipment used to mix, process, or package food. This role may require some technical aptitude, but many employers provide training for the right candidate.
Why it's in demand:
As plants adopt automation and scale operations, the need for skilled or trainable machine operators continues to grow, especially in larger Metro Vancouver, Abbotsford, and Kelowna facilities.
4. Quality Control Assistant
What they do:
These team members inspect products to ensure they meet quality and safety standards. Duties include testing samples, checking packaging, and completing production reports.
Why it's in demand:
Food manufacturers must meet strict industry and export regulations, making quality control a key area of hiring.
5. Warehouse Assistant
What they do:
Warehouse assistants manage inventory, load and unload trucks, and prepare products for distribution. Some roles may require forklift certification, which employers may help you obtain.
Why it's in demand:
As production scales up, there’s a growing need for workers who can manage logistics and keep products moving efficiently across BC and beyond.
How to Apply
- Look for job boards specializing in food manufacturing or general labour in BC. These often feature listings that are more targeted than general platforms.
- Prepare a simple resume highlighting any physical labour, teamwork, or safety-related experience—even if it’s from school or volunteer work.
- Be ready for shift work. Many facilities run early mornings, evenings, or overnight shifts.
- Follow up after applying. A quick call or email can show employers you're serious.
If you want to break into the food processing industry, Foprox can help. As a dedicated job board built specifically for Canada’s food manufacturing sector, Foprox connects job seekers with relevant, up-to-date opportunities across BC.
Powered by OsimTov, a BC-based digital agency, the platform also offers more innovative screening tools that make applying easier and more efficient, so you can focus on finding the right job faster. Whether you're looking for packaging work in Surrey or a machine operator role in Kelowna, Foprox brings you one step closer to your next opportunity.