Skilled employees are needed at every stage of the food supply chain

When most people think of food jobs, they usually think of either customer-facing roles such as restaurant managers, chefs and serving staff, or of farmers in the very early stages of food production. However, there is a whole spectrum of roles across the whole of the food supply chain, and many of the most important positions are often overlooked. Skilled and trained employees are constantly required to fill these vital positions in order to keep the whole process running smoothly and efficiently.

Here is a selection of just a few of these unusual yet crucial food jobs:

• Wine producer - When you think of food jobs, you may often forget about the many roles available in the production of drink products. Being a wine producer requires you to understand all of the processes involved in making wine from grapes; you must know about viticulture and vinification, as well as having a passion for the art of making quality wine.

• Abattoir operative - This food job is only right for certain people. Working in a slaughterhouse, you will be part of an essential process required to supply the UK with quality meat. You need to be conscientious about standards and humane slaughter, willing to work with dead animals and waste products, as well as being physically fit.

• Confectioners- A craft-related food job, being a confectioner making sweets and chocolate can be extremely rewarding and enjoyable. As long as you have high standards of personal cleanliness, patience and attention to detail, you should go far in this industry.